NCN Route 573

Route 73 takes in the Cheshire section of the route from Congleton to Davenham. It provides a link between two National Routes - 55 to the east and 5, which runs through the centre of the county and on to Wales.

From Congleton, the route heads west and follows minor roads towards Twemlow Green and Goostrey. The landscape is undulating with no major climbs other than where the roads dip into river valleys. At Twemlow Green there is a very short section on the A535, take extra care here. In Goostrey there are a couple of pubs and shops for refuelling but be aware that there are no shops until Davenham and a pub at Lach Dennis.

The countryside is open, with pleasant views towards the hills of Wales in the distance. At Boots Green you will see a delightful finger post, a well preserves reminder of a bygone age of travel on our roads. Cross the M6 motorway and head for Lach Dennis and Davenham. You'll have to cross the narrow, straight A530 - once a Roman Road named King Street. Take care crossing.

In a short distance you'll drop steeply down into a valley to cross the River Dane at Shipbrook. From there it's a short climb into Davenham itself where there are pubs and shops. Follow the signs and you will join Route 5 - going north towards Chester and Wales or south towards Middlewich and Stafford.

Please use Ordnance Survey maps and signs. Please note that the downloadable route pack details were produced by the former Cheshire County Council.

Grade: National Cycle Network
Distance: 28km/18mile
Time: 2-4 hours
Start: Congleton town centre
Map: OS Landranger 118
Terrain: Country lanes, public roads, off road tracks
Toilets: Public toilets in most towns you pass through