Crossroads around Congleton

Grade: Circular
Distance: 32km/20 miles
Time: 3 - 5 hours
Start: Congleton railway station
Map: OS Explorer Map 268
Terrain: Mainly minor roads with some steep climbs

From Congleton you quickly reach tree lined lanes below Congleton Edge. Gritstone rocks nearby give the landscape a very different feel to the Cheshire Plain. You then cross the A34 near to Great Moreton Hall, where oak trees provide welcome shade during high summer.

The Dane Valley is an area of special landscape value for its woodlands, meadows and river meanders. A pleasant ride brings you to Marton, home of Cheshire’s oldest oak tree estimated to be 600 years old! Why not stretch your legs with a visit to Marton Church? It is said to be the oldest half timbered church in Europe still in use. Go inside and feel the ancient hand made ladder, possibly made from another large local tree.

Refreshed you cycle towards Bosley Cloud. The road takes you through magically twisted birch woodlands. Just after North Rode church you will see an old sign erected by the National Cyclist Union.

Cross the River Dane, once the main power source for Congleton’s many mills. Be prepared for a long climb onto the shoulder of Bosley Cloud. From the top there are magnificent views over Congleton towards the Welsh mountains.

Turn right at the crossroads for Timbersbrook Picnic Area. Take a glimpse at ‘The Album in the Attic’ and discover the story of Silver Springs Bleaching and Dyeing Works. Freewheeling down into Congleton, you pass under the Biddulph Valley Way – an off road route for walkers, cyclists and horse riders, Why not explore this another day?