When people think of the West Midlands, they often picture the sprawling urban network of Birmingham, the Black Country, and the M6 motorway. But stray just a few miles away from the concrete, and you'll find some of the most spectacular, varied, and uncrowded motorcycle routes in the country.
Bordering the rugged landscapes of Wales to the west and the rolling Cotswolds to the south, the West Midlands acts as a phenomenal gateway for bikers. From the historic ironworks of Shropshire to the dense forests of Staffordshire, there is incredible riding to be found here. The team at WeBuyAnyBike247.com has narrowed down our absolute favorite routes in the region. Fire up your engine—here are the top five West Midlands motorcycle rides for your next trip.
1. The Shropshire Hills & The Burway
Vibe: Dramatic climbs, sheep-grazed plateaus, "Little Switzerland"
If you want dramatic scenery without traveling to the Lake District, the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is your best bet. Start in the historic town of Church Stretton and look for a narrow road called "The Burway."
This single-track road climbs fiercely up onto the Long Mynd plateau, featuring steep drop-offs on one side and a rugged, heather-covered mountain face on the other. Once at the top, you are treated to miles of open moorland riding among wild ponies and sheep, with panoramic views stretching into Wales. It’s a slow, technical, and breathtakingly beautiful ride—perfect for an adventure bike.
2. Ironbridge Gorge to Clee Hill (A442 & A4117)
Vibe: Industrial history, fast sweepers, legendary biker stops
This route offers a brilliant mix of fast A-roads and historic landmarks. Begin at the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, Ironbridge. Riding through the wooded gorge alongside the River Severn early on a Sunday morning is a magical experience.
Follow the A442 south down to Bridgnorth, a town split in two by a massive cliff and a hugely popular meeting point for bikers (check out the cafes along the river). From Bridgnorth, head west towards Ludlow via the A4117, which takes you up and over Clee Hill. The climb is thrilling, and the viewpoint at the summit offers vistas across several counties. Watch out for wandering sheep near the top!
3. The Malvern Hills Loop (A449 & B4232)
Vibe: Tight twists, Victorian spa towns, two-county views
Rising abruptly from the flat plains of Worcestershire, the Malvern Hills offer a compact but incredibly intense riding experience. Start in the elegant Victorian spa town of Great Malvern and head up the A449.
The real fun begins when you cut onto the B4232, which traces the western flank of the hills. You'll navigate through the Wyche Cutting—a deep pass blasted through the rock—before enjoying a series of tight, twisting corners that demand precision. To your left, you'll look out over the rolling hills of Herefordshire towards Wales; to your right, the vast plains of the Severn Valley. End your ride with a stop at the historic British Camp.
4. The Cannock Chase Circuit (A513)
Vibe: Dense pine forests, quick evening blasts, wildlife
If you live in the heavily populated heart of the West Midlands and need a quick escape after work, Cannock Chase is the ultimate playground. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Staffordshire is a dense, sprawling pine forest intersected by fantastic, smooth roads.
The A513 running through Milford and into the Chase provides great sweeping curves under a canopy of trees. There are numerous smaller access roads and car parks where you'll almost always find other bikers grabbing an ice cream from a local van. A major word of warning: Cannock Chase is home to a massive population of wild deer. Ride with extreme caution, especially at dawn and dusk!
5. The Cider Country Run (Herefordshire A-Roads)
Vibe: Flowing tarmac, apple orchards, relaxed border country
For those who love stringing together fast, flowing corners on a sports tourer, the roads of Herefordshire are a dream. This rural county is significantly quieter than the rest of the West Midlands, meaning empty roads and pristine tarmac.
Start in Tenbury Wells and take the A4112 south towards Leominster, eventually looping down to Hereford. The roads here are characterized by long, predictable sweepers that cut through endless apple orchards and rich farmland. The sightlines are generally excellent, allowing you to establish a beautiful, flowing rhythm. It’s the definition of God's own riding country on a warm summer's day.