North East Wales · Wales
Horseshoe Pass
The A542 climbs from Llangollen past Valle Crucis Abbey and around a great horseshoe-shaped valley to the summit café. It is one of Britain's most popular biking roads and a busy weekend meeting point.
- Distance
- ≈ 15 miles
- Twistiness
- 4/5
- Best season
- All year
- Best for
- Cars & bikes
Why go
What makes Horseshoe Pass special
- The horseshoe curve around the valley head
- Summit café and car park
- Valle Crucis Abbey near the bottom
Watch out for
- Very busy with bikes and cars at weekends
- Loose slate and gravel on bends
- Police patrols are frequent
Road conditions change. Check closures, weather and local restrictions before you set off, and always ride and drive within the limit.
As a group
Taking a group over Horseshoe Pass
Horseshoe Pass works well for groups. Brief the group at Llangollen, keep two-second gaps through the bends and regroup at Horseshoe Pass summit café. Sweep can see who's behind throughout.
One shared route
Everyone on the same line from the start.
Lead and sweep
Sweep sees exactly who's behind.
Planned regroups
Stop at Horseshoe Pass summit café.
FAQ
Horseshoe Pass: common questions
How long is Horseshoe Pass?+
Horseshoe Pass runs for about 15 miles from Llangollen to Ruthin in North East Wales.
When is the best time to drive or ride Horseshoe Pass?+
The best season is All year. Go early in the day to avoid traffic, and check for closures in poor weather.
Is Horseshoe Pass good for motorcycles?+
Yes — Horseshoe Pass is a popular motorcycle road with a twistiness rating of 4 out of 5. Very busy with bikes and cars at weekends.
Can I ride Horseshoe Pass as a group?+
Horseshoe Pass works well for groups. Brief the group at Llangollen, keep two-second gaps through the bends and regroup at Horseshoe Pass summit café. Sweep can see who's behind throughout.
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