Explore Shakespeare country by bike
Around 50 cyclists are today taking part in a celebration ride through Shakespeare country to mark the opening of the latest section National Cycle Network Route 41 linking Warwick and Stratford.
The 15-mile route taking in Hampton Lucy and Charlecote Park was developed with assistance from Warwickshire County Council and sustainable transport charity Sustrans has today launched the route.
The new cycling and walking route links two of England’s most historic and picturesque towns, Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick.
Activities got underway today at 11am with two cycle rides departing simultaneously from the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, and Shire Hall in Warwick, meeting at the halfway point at the gates of Charlecote Park for the official ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The 15-mile route has been developed by Sustrans with the assistance and co-operation of Warwickshire County Council and Stratford-upon-Avon District Council.
The route meanders from Warwick through beautiful countryside surrounding Sherbourne and Hampton Lucy, past the entrance to the stunning Charlecote Park, and on to the centre of Stratford-upon-Avon. It offers a route for all abilities and provides a new and sustainable way to connect the neighbouring towns for both locals and visitors.
This new section also connects cyclists and walkers to the popular and largely traffic-free Stratford Greenway Route 5.
Perminder Balu, Sustrans’ Regional Manager says: “We are really pleased to be opening this latest section of Route 41 in one of the most beautiful parts of the English countryside. I think the route will prove popular with both locals looking for a healthy and safe way to travel between the towns and also visitors looking to explore the breathtaking scenery surrounding Warwick and Stratford-upon-Avon.”
Warwickshire County Council Cycling Officer, Milan Tursner will be taking part in the inaugural cycle ride alongside around 50 other riders.
Further information about Sustrans, including other news releases and detailed online route mapping, is available through our website: http://www.sustrans.org.uk