Cycling Touring Guide: Central England: revised edition

If you love exploring Britain on two wheels, this updated edition of Harold Briercliffe’s classic 1949 cycling guide is an absolute treat. Briercliffe — often called the Alfred Wainwright of cycling — had a gift for capturing the charm of Britain’s towns, villages and backroads, and his writing still feels like a friendly companion pedalling alongside you.

This revised version brings his original book back to life, complete with his photographs and illustrations, while adding fresh, practical routes for today’s cyclists. With help from Mark Jarman and Sustrans, the guide offers modern alternatives to roads that have become too busy over the decades, making it easier than ever to enjoy the landscapes Briercliffe loved.

The Cycling Touring Guide: Central England takes you through some of the region’s best riding: the Peak District, Cheshire, north Shropshire, the Midlands, the Malverns, the Wye Valley, the Forest of Dean, East of the Pennines, and even routes north of London. Whether you’re after a half‑day spin, a full‑day adventure, or a week‑long tour, there’s something here for every rider.

It’s a nostalgic window into post‑war Britain, a practical guide for modern cyclists, and a brilliant source of inspiration for anyone who enjoys cycle touring across the UK.