Itinerary Planner

The Radnor Ring | Cycling 84 Miles of Radnorshire by Lane and Rail

The Radnor Ring is an 84-mile circular cycle route around the old county of Radnorshire in central Powys, signed mainly as National Cycle Route 825. It mixes country lanes, river valleys, traffic-free trails and mountain roads, with some strenuous climbs and an optional off-road section for mountain bikes. It also passes several stations on the Heart of Wales Line, which makes it easy to ride in stages.

How to ride it

Most riders take two or three days. Knighton and Llandrindod Wells both have stations on the Heart of Wales Line, and the route passes Knucklas, Llangynllo and Llanbister Road stations too, so you can start where it suits and shorten any day by taking the train. Trains are infrequent, so check the timetable and book bike spaces.

Knighton

Knighton is a hilly border town halfway along Offa's Dyke. Visit the Offa's Dyke Centre, which tells the story of the 8th-century earthwork, before you set off. Just west, the line crosses the Knucklas Viaduct, 13 stone arches with turreted ends, and the lanes around it are some of the quietest on the route.

Llandrindod Wells

The Victorian spa town is the natural overnight stop. Visit the National Cycle Museum, which has more than 250 bikes from boneshakers to modern racing machines, and walk around the Lake Park in the evening. The Bell Country Inn, just outside the town, has rooms and a restaurant serving dishes made from local ingredients.

Rhayader and the hills

The western side of Radnorshire is higher and wilder, with long views over the Wye valley towards the Cambrian Mountains. Rhayader is the best place to stock up on food and has cafes for a mid-ride break.

Good to know

• Carry a map or a downloaded route; signage can be sparse on the upland sections.
• Expect gates, livestock and farm traffic on the lanes.
• More on our cycling page and our rail trail itineraries.