WeÕve been cycling a route across the Welsh hills and
down to the Wye Valley to Hay on Wye & returning through the Black and
White villages for several years now...We thought it was great...but
werenÕt too sure whether Wheely Wonderful Cyclists might not find the short
stretch across the hill at Glascwm a bit too hard. This route has now been
tried and tested by lots of holiday cyclists - everyone has really enjoyed
it. This is a great route to explore the Black and White villages and the
Wye valley. Staying at Presteigne, Hay on Wye and Kingsland.
Out of the four days cycling only the second day is
stretching (40 miles/ 64km and that hill at Glascwm, ending up at Hay on
Wye). However, there is an alternative easy route of 24 miles/ 39km. The
rest of the time you are cycling in river valleys, and there are plenty of
teashops to fuel you on your way. Total 95 miles/153km. Opportunities for
longer rides each day
Day 1. Petchfield Farm to Presteigne. 15 miles/ 24km.
Cycle on idyllic country lanes and cross the River Lugg to cycle into
Wales. Presteigne is home to the unique Judges Lodging museum & to many
arts events; Sheep Music - a world music festival in July, and a classical
music festival in August.
Day 2. Presteigne to Hay on Wye. Two routes - an easier route via Kington (Hergest
Croft Gardens), Brilley Mountain and down to the River Wye (24 miles/
39km). Or a more demanding route... through the Welsh hills & OffaÕs
Dyke. Once you crest the hill at Glascwm, itÕs downhill to the River Wye
and the welcome sight of the Old Station at Erwood (afternoon tea) 40
miles/ 64km. Hay on Wye is a lovely town, famed for its bookshops, castle
and literary festival.
Day 3. Hay on Wye to Black & White villages. 16-25
miles (26-40km). Plenty of time to explore Hay and all those bookshops
before you start. Cross the Wye at the toll bridge (cyclists toll is 10p)
& cycle through the Black and White villages of North Herefordshire.
Day 4. Black & White Villages to Petchfield Farm.
12-21 miles (19-34km). On your last cycling day there are two grand
National Trust houses to visit; Croft Castle and Berrington Hall. And if
you have time, visit Richards Castle (one of the first four Norman castles
built in this country.... before 1066), the perfect place for a picnic.
Finishing any time in the afternoon, back at Petchfield Farm.
© Wheely wonderful cycling
