Castles of Shropshire Cycle Tour – Day2 Knighton to Shrews
11 people attending
7 places left
The second part of a two-day, 166km (105 mile) cycle tour around Shropshire visiting a selection of it’s many historical castles. There will be cycling, castles and cake.
After a night in Knighton (say that quickly and repeat), we head to Shrewsbury via Clun, Bishops Castle and the Stiperstones.
Sunday's 72km journey takes us past 4 castles they are:
@13km - Hopton Castle
“During the Civil War Hopton Castle was one of the few castles to be held for the Parliament in the west. In 1644 Sir Michael Woodhouse, with a force of about 500, laid siege to the castle which was defended by about thirty Roundheads under the command of Samuel More. More eventually agreed terms and surrendered. It is thought the majority were then killed. The castle was still habitable in 1700 but fell into disrepair soon afterwards”. Free access, short visit.
@23km - Clun Castle
"Founded shortly after the Norman Conquest, the castle and nearby settlement prospered until the early 15th century, when followers of the Welsh chieftain Owain Glyn Dwr devastated the surrounding area." Free access, short visit.
@33km - Bishops Castle (in Bishops Castle)
Not much here to be honest. Founded in the 12th century. Wave as we cycle past.
@72km - Shrewsbury Castle
Built by Roger de Montgomery in circa 1070 as a defensive fortification for the town. Little of the original physical structure remains. The castle was extensively repaired in 1643 during the Civil War and further repairs were carried out by Thomas Telford on behalf of Sir William Pulteney in 1780. End of our ride. £4 entry to a small regimental museum.
Hopefully time for some food in Shrewsbury before we depart for home. Trains run frequently to Telford (~£6), the original starting point. Otherwise trains go in just about every direction.
You can view the route here: https://www.komoot.com/tour/55072136?ref=wtd
We will either have lunch at the Stipperstones Inn or a late one in Shrewsbury.
Keep in touch
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What to bring
Bike: a road bike
Helmet: OutdoorLads requires you to wear one
Clothing: lightweight and layered, colourful and/or reflective clothing will make you more visible to other road users.
Footwear: suitable for your bike and pedals.
Gloves: cycle gloves help avoid blisters, and are good in the cold
Punctures: spare inner tube, bike tyre pump and tyre levers
Tools: any special tools that your bike needs
Small snacks: such as chocolate or energy bars
Plenty of water: in bottle/s on your bike or in a daysack/bladder
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Eye protection: avoid getting grit or insects in your eyes, sunglasses are OK if they are not made of glass and not too shaded
Bike lights: be seen and safe - as we may be finishing late please have a front and back light.
Storage: small day-sack or a bag on your bike
Mobile Phone: keep it in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies
Food & drink
Please bring plenty of snacks, the plan is to go to the Stipperstones Inn. It is my intention to book us a table and pre-order nearer the time.