MERCIAN WAY
NATIONAL CYCLE NETWORK ROUTE 45

 

Linking the ancient Wyre Forest near Bewdley to the famous Roman town of Chester, along quiet rural lanes and traffic-free paths, the Mercian Way takes the visitor into a lost world of unspoilt riverside meadows and woodland, far from main roads and the frenetic pace of everyday life.

Steam Trains
There’s a unique opportunity to cycle alongside the majestic vintage steam trains of the Severn Valley Railway near Bridgnorth in a family-friendly, traffic-free environment.

 

World Heritage & National Trust Sites
Relax in country pubs and tearooms and visit family friendly attractions like the museums of the World Heritage Site at Ironbridge and the National Trust properties of Dudmaston Hall and Attingham Park.

And why is it called the Mercian Way?
The route runs through the former Kingdom of Mercia, once ruled by the powerful Offa, the first man to claim the title of King of England. Commemorating this turbulent past, special cast-iron Mercian Warriors are positioned at strategic points along the trail.

Leaflets
The route through Shropshire is now complete, including the newly opened section from Bridgnorth to Ironbridge, and there are four leaflets available to help you find your way. These download for free here, or you can request a hard copy by calling Shropshire Council on 01743 253008: or downloaded from here:

Mercian Way - Wyre Forest to Bridgnorth (6.98 MB)
Mercian Way - Bridgnorth to Ironbridge (1.90 MB)
Mercian Way - Around the Wrekin - Ironbridge to Shrewsbury (2.33 MB)
Mercian Way - Whitchurch to Shrewsbury (2.37 MB)