Minton batch, Long Mynd, Shropshire

Minton Batch has had a lot of press over the years - including UK trail of the year - and you can judge it by your own personal ranking, but there is no doubt that it's a classic bit of natural singletrack that flows through the Stretton Hills for 1.5km. Start from Myndtown with a lung busting climb (with some pushing) to reach the ridge at Black Knoll, then plenty of time to recover as you pass the glider station. Drop into the valley on the Minton Batch trail to reach Hamperley. Climb on the graded fire track to return through Long Mynd forest followed by another great descent to Handless Woods (NT) on a series of switch backs to reach the car. Hamperley makes a good alternative starting point.