The Burway is a dangerously steep drive in Shropshire

The Burway is the name of a very demanding drive located in the Shropshire county of the West Midlands region of England.

Can you drive up the Long Mynd?

Tucked away above Cardingmill Valley, the road is totally paved and pretty narrow. It climbs up to the top of Long Mynd, a mountain plateau at an elevation of 488m (1,601ft) above the sea level. From the top you can take in fantastic views across Shropshire and beyond.

How is the Burway?

The road is pretty narrow, steep (up to 20%) so inexperienced drivers are cautioned not to drive this road in any condition as it is single track. It’s certainly not for the faint-hearted. Drivers face a sheer drop down the hillside on one side and the road is just wide enough for one car in places. It’s unsuitable for caravans. The drop overlooking the valley is quite insane with no barrier protection at all. Drivers face a sheer drop down the hillside on one side and the road is just wide enough for one car in places. It’s a very narrow high shelf road intimidating to beginners, or those not fond of heights.

How long is the Burway?

The road is 7.88km (4.9 miles) long, running east-west from Church Stretton, a market town in Shropshire to Longmynd. On the western side it is called The Port Way.

How steep is the Burway?

The road to the summit is very steep, hitting a 20% of maximum gradient through some of the ramps. Starting at Church Stretton, this ancient route to the top is 3.24 km long. Over this distance, the elevation gain is 281 meters. The average percentage is 8.6 %.

Is the Burway open?

The road is not maintained in winters. This clean tarmac, narrow road is said to be the Shropshire's highest public road. In winter, deep snow can often make the road impassable. Drivers are advised not to drive the road in icy or snowy conditions. It is treacherous in poor weather and is especially dangerous in frost, ice or snow: if you slip you can easily go over the edge.