National Cycle Route 888

Route overview

Short route with moderate climbing suits riders looking for a gentle 10.8 km ride.

10.8 km National Cycle Network Route from Corntown to Llanmaes in Vale of Glamorgan with 65 m climbing.

The ride starts near Corntown at 92 m elevation and heads through Tair Croes, Llampha, Colwinston, and Llandow before reaching Llanmaes at 10.8 km. The first half contains most of the 65 m total ascent, with a slight dip from 92 m down to 40 m at 2.9 km, then climbing again. The main climb begins around 4.6 km and lasts for 2.1 km, gaining 44 m at an average gradient of 2.1%, max 3%, reaching 90 m. The route is almost entirely on paved minor roads (99% paved, 98% minor road) with a small 1% unpaved section. There is a 2.9 km stretch on roads with speed limits of 80 km/h or more. After Corntown, there is no café, shop, or water for 6.9 km until a café 58 m off route just after that point. There are repair stands at the start and end around Corntown and Llanmaes. A bailout station is 1.34 km off route at 10.7 km. The ride features 58% flat terrain, 19% climbing, and 22% descending, with the steepest 500 m section at 7.5% right near the start, and the longest descent is 1.6 km dropping 42 m near the end. At the finish in Llanmaes is the Blacksmith's Arms pub.

Highlights

• Ascent of 44 m over 2.1 km with max 3% gradient
• Longest descent of 1.6 km dropping 42 m from km 9.2
• Route passes through Colwinston and Llandow
• Blacksmith's Arms pub at Llanmaes finish

Practical information

Surface

Paved

Route shape

Point to point

Riding time

46 min

Best months

Jun to Sep — daily highs of 17–19 °C in those months

Know before you go

• 6.9 km without café, shop or water from start
• 2.9 km on roads with 80 km/h or more speed limit

Routes are for inspiration. Roads, surfaces and conditions change — check locally and ride within your limits.