Travellers’ tales: From sea to source – cycling the Severn
Where: England and Wales
Who: David Smith and Dave Lane
When: May 2025
After a wonderful 700-mile tour of the NC500, Cape Wrath and the Orkneys in September 2024, I jumped at the chance to again join fellow cyclist Dave Lane for a four-day adventure along Britain’s longest river, from sea to source.
The River Severn begins its journey 610m (2,001ft) above sea level on the north-eastern slopes of Plynlimon, the highest point of the Cambrian Mountains. Our journey began with a symbolic loop to Severn Beach for breakfast. Then we rode over the iconic Iron Bridge, officially marking the start of our route upstream.
That evening, we followed the peaceful Gloucester & Sharpness Canal towpath, arriving in Gloucester after 93 miles as the sun dipped behind the docks.
Under brilliant sunshine, we unpacked our picnic with panoramic views of Mid Wales all around David Smith
Day two took us 80 miles through river-hugging towns: Tewkesbury, Upton-on-Severn and Worcester, where the cathedral loomed grandly above the riverside cycle path. As the landscape gently rose, we rolled through the historic heart of Shropshire to YHA Ironbridge Coalport.
The third day, an 83-mile stretch, began on the old railway track to Ironbridge. We cruised into Shrewsbury, passed through Welshpool, and crossed the iron bridge at Abermule. After some scenic miles on quiet lanes, we reached Llanidloes.
Our final day was the crown jewel. Climbing into the Cambrian Mountains, we left the bikes to hike the last half mile to the Severn’s source at Plynlimon. There, under brilliant sunshine, we unpacked our picnic with panoramic views of Mid Wales all around – a rewarding pause at the river’s beginning.
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