Newcastle-Under-Lyme to Swynnerton

Andrew Turner is a cyclist and cycling blogger.

This is one of my favourite local routes and features I believe one of the best viewpoints in my area. It's a 30-mile road cycling route starting in Newcastle-Under-Lyme, Staffordshire.

The route uses mainly quiet country lanes and goes through some charming little villages. It includes a nice mix of mostly gentle climbs and long fast descents so is suitable for both beginner and experienced cyclists. The highlight of the ride is the viewpoint at Swynnerton with fantastic views across the surrounding countryside and the Shropshire Hills in the distance.

After the long climb up to the viewpoint you are then rewarded with a nice long descent down to Coldmeece. Also featured on the ride is Izaak Walton’s Cottage which can be visited for free during the summer months.

The road then continues to descend and meander through the pretty village of Norton Bridge.

On the return leg there is another enjoyable fast descent which takes you over a railway bridge at Millmeece. The route then turns off the main road and follows the railway line for approximately two miles where you can cruise along at a good pace enjoying the surrounding countryside.

Once you get back to the crossroads at Whitmore road there are actually two different ways of returning to the start. You can either continue up Whitmore road or take the quieter route through Keele Village.