Manchester to Brecon next week.

[grimpeur]

I am planning on riding from Sale in Greater Manchester to Brecon,Powys next Wednesday or Thursday, weather and willpower permitting. Hoping to complete the journey in around 8 hours.

My route will take me through Middlewich,Nantwich,Whitchurch,Shrewsbury, Church Stretton, Craven Arms then along various B roads then the A4110, A4112 and A438 via Hay-on-Wye.
I am planning on trying to make good time but I would appreciate any tips about bike-friendly cafes and bike shops that I will pass on my journey particularly on the last half of the journey as I don't know this area that well. I have a feeling that once I turn off the A49 at Craven Arms all civilisation will cease to exist until I reach Hay-on-Wye as I can't see ANY towns of any size on this stretch of the journey. Can anyone suggest a nice place to stop between these two points?
Thanks

 

[cavcannotclimb]

Have you thought of going via sustrans route 81 via Llanidloes, Rhayader, Builth Wells? There are some decent main roads too and plenty of accommodation.

 

[cavcannotclimb]

Just spotted an interesting post that might give you some ideas-Wales North to South part 4 going to Brecon through Bishop's Castle and Knighton. He has some good pics of the ride.