A remarkable collection of railway paths makes up this mostly traffic-free route through the West Midlands and North-West, with occasional canalside riding and connecting paths on quiet roads. Starting by the banks of the River Severn near Ironbridge, it includes signature rail-trails such as the Silkin Way and Middlewood Way on its way through Cheshire to Manchester. The paths, often in cuttings and tree-lined, provide a scenic way to ride through this industrial heartland. Several sections are unpaved so you'll need reasonably sturdy tyres - and mudguards!