Pole Bank loop from Church Stretton — Shropshire Hills

Embark on the Pole Bank loop from Church Stretton, a challenging touring bicycle ride through the Shropshire Hills National Landscape. This 26.5 miles (42.6 km) route, with a significant 2454 feet (748 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 3 hours and 1 minute to complete. You will navigate quiet country roads, stone forestry tracks, and grazed grassy upland paths, experiencing a mix of unpaved, gravel, natural, and asphalt surfaces. The trail features tough climbs and steep descents, leading you across heather-clad moorland with expansive views, especially from Pole Bank, the highest point on the Long Mynd.

Rated as difficult, this loop demands good to very good fitness levels due to its demanding climbs and descents. Be prepared for varied terrain; some paths can be loose and gravelly, and you might encounter singletrack sections. Inexperienced cyclists may find it necessary to dismount on particularly steep descents. The route starts from the historical market town of Church Stretton, providing convenient access to this rewarding journey.

As you cycle, keep an eye out for wild ponies and sheep roaming freely across the common land. The trail also passes through serene woodland areas like Rectory Wood and Townbrook Valley, and the popular beauty spot of Carding Mill Valley. You will traverse parts of The Portway, an ancient track along the crest of the Long Mynd, historically used by Neolithic traders. From Pole Bank, at 516 meters (1692 feet), you can enjoy impressive 360-degree panoramas, often extending into Wales on clear days, and even spot gliders from the nearby Midland Gliding Club.