The Black Shed, Patch Bridge
The Black Shed, Patch Bridge
Highlight • Pub
Cycling
4.9
(75)
Road cycling
4.6
(23)
Gravel riding
5.0
(2)
The Black Shed, Patch Bridge, is a popular canalside cafe and pub located in Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, United Kingdom. Situated right by the historic Patch Swing Bridge on the scenic Gloucester & Sharpness Canal, this welcoming spot offers a perfect stop for those exploring the area. At an elevation of just 8 meters, it provides a tranquil setting with beautiful water views.
Visitors consistently praise The Black Shed for its friendly atmosphere and picturesque location. Many highlight the opportunity to relax…
Tips
July 13, 2021
Road cycling
September 24, 2019
Cycling
November 10, 2020
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near The Black Shed, Patch Bridge
4.8
(16)
117
riders
51.2km
03:36
120m
120m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(6)
95
riders
58.6km
03:28
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
90
riders
104km
06:32
940m
940m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
Details
Informations
Elevation 10 m
Weather
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Today
Monday 16 March
11°C
4°C
30 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 21.0 km/h
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Yes, The Black Shed warmly welcomes dogs. It's a popular spot for those enjoying walks along the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal towpath with their pets, offering a convenient and friendly place to stop and refresh.
The Black Shed is open from 9 am to 6 pm on Sunday to Tuesday. From Wednesday to Saturday, it operates with extended hours, opening at 9 am and closing at 11 pm, often hosting music nights and events.
The Black Shed offers 'great British fayre' with an emphasis on locally sourced, high-welfare, and sustainable produce. Their menu includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with popular options like weekly specials, Friday Fish & Chip Suppers, and a Sunday Carvery. They also cater to various dietary requirements, including gluten-free and dairy-free options, and serve lovely coffee and cakes.
Yes, the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal towpath offers relatively flat and easy walking routes, making it ideal for beginners and families. You can enjoy gentle strolls along the canal in either direction from The Black Shed, taking in the scenic views and canal boats.
The towpath along the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal is generally flat, making it suitable for cycling. However, cyclists should note that the section between The Black Shed and Frampton-on-Severn is best suited for a more robust road bike rather than a lightweight racing bike due to the surface.
While the towpath itself is linear, many hikers create circular routes by combining sections of the canal path with local footpaths and quiet lanes in the surrounding countryside. You can plan a route that incorporates the scenic canal and returns to The Black Shed for refreshments.
Beyond enjoying food and drink, The Black Shed offers boat trips along the canal. Visitors can also hire bikes and canoes directly from the establishment, providing excellent opportunities to explore the beautiful Gloucester & Sharpness Canal and its surroundings.
The Black Shed offers free car parking, which is a great convenience. However, given its popularity, especially on sunny days, weekends, and during events, the car park can fill up quickly. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended to secure a spot.
While The Black Shed itself does not offer accommodation, the surrounding area of Slimbridge and nearby villages like Frampton-on-Severn have various options, including B&Bs, guesthouses, and holiday cottages, catering to visitors exploring the Gloucestershire countryside and the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust.
Yes, The Black Shed is suitable for a winter visit. Its cozy atmosphere, especially indoors, makes it a welcoming stop after a crisp winter walk along the canal. They serve hot drinks and meals, providing a perfect place to warm up. Check their website for any seasonal changes to opening hours or special winter events.
The most prominent landmark is the historic Patch Swing Bridge itself, right next to The Black Shed. The cafe is also situated directly on the scenic Gloucester & Sharpness Canal, known for its tranquil waters and canal boats. The renowned Slimbridge Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust is also a short distance away, offering extensive natural features and wildlife viewing.