Best Cycle Routes: Must-Try Bike Trails in the UK
Brimming with rolling hills, quaint villages, majestic woodlands and green parks, the UK boasts some of the most beautiful cycle routes in the world! From tranquil rides through Swinley Forest and jaunts along the ancient railway paths of Hull, to thrilling jumps waiting to be experienced at BikePark Wales, there are trails to be found for all cycling levels, from beginner to mountain-biking expert! And with the temperature slowly but surely rising, now's the perfect time to lace up your trainers, throw on a sporty t-shirt and get your bike out for an adventure! Whether embarking solo or planning to pedal alongside the rest of the family, if you're interested in setting off on a two-wheeled trip, why not read on to discover some of our favourite cycling routes?
Bike riding in Swinley Forest is a great option for the whole family!
Located in the scenic region of Berkshire, Swinley Forest is a nature-lover's paradise! This majestic woodland has 15 miles of bike trails, with the perfect path for every level of cyclist. The green route, as you may have guessed, is the easiest of the trails. A gentle 1.2 mile loop around the forest, it's the ideal choice for beginners and families with young children. If you're keen for a bit of a workout, you could up your game by setting off on the blue route that offers a moderate 6-mile ride, ideal for intermediate cyclists with a good fitness level. For those seeking a real challenge, the red route is an 8-mile trail filled with thrills for mountain bikers! Depending on your pace and the trail you choose, you can spend anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours exploring this forest. Excitingly, you may well catch glimpses of local wildlife as you pass through the pines! And if you're totally new to the sport and don't yet own a bike of your own, this is the ideal place to try out cycling, as the Swinley Bike Hub rents out bicycles!
Where are the best bike trails in Norfolk? You can check out Thetford Forest's cycle routes!
Right on the border of Norfolk and Suffolk, Thetford Forest is home to the High Lodge trails, which are popular among visitors and locals alike. For an easy ride, the Shepherd Trail is a 5-mile loop that's relatively flat and winds through beautiful woodlands. Its smooth and wide path make it suitable for all abilities and all types of bikes. The 6-11 mile Beater Trail on the other hand should be avoided by those with child seats or tagalongs attached to their bikes, as it's a bit more of a bumpy route. Still achievable for beginners, it's a good way to build up your cycling capabilities! And for the adventurers among you, the Lime Burner Trail offers a 10-mile journey with varied terrain and exciting descents. However, we only recommend attempting this trail if you're an experienced cyclist with good stamina. Whatever route you opt for, you're sure to love the heathland and tranquil river paths that you'll pass by on your way!
Where can you cycle near Hull? Check our the Hornsea Rail Trail
The Hornsea Rail Trail is a lovely 13-mile route that takes you from the city of Hull to the seaside town of Hornsea, by following an old railway line. The trail is mostly flat and traffic-free, meaning it should be a pretty stress-free ride. Passing through East Yorkshire's countryside and quaint villages, you won't be short of picnic areas if you wish to take a break mid-ride! Most people complete the trail in about 2 to 3 hours, depending on their pace (and how long they stop off for). However, if the distance or duration seems unachievable, it's always possible to tackle just part of the route. The picturesque village of Sigglesthorne is situated roughly halfway and offers ample parking, making it a great starting point for those who are less accustomed to sitting on a saddle! Ending on the shores of Hornsea, we recommend concluding this itinerary by cooling down on the beach (if the weather decides to be kind to you!).
Wondering where to cycle in the capital? You can find a great path in London's Richmond Park!
When you think of cycle routes, your mind most likely turns towards the great British countryside. However, don't be fooled into thinking that cycling in the city is only reserved for stressful commutes to work! Even in England’s capital you can find green oases that are perfect for a spin on your bike! Richmond Park provides cyclists with smooth roads, designated lanes and stunning views at every turn! A full loop around the park's perimeter can take about an hour or two, so it's pretty achievable for all levels of cyclists. If you're lucky, you might even spot some deer en route, roaming freely around this famous royal park that was established by King Charles I in the 17th century. Plus, there are plenty of spots to take a breather and enjoy a picnic with friends or family. So, grab your bike, pack a snack and enjoy some tranquility in the midst of the city's hustle and bustle!
The Comber Greenway Northern Ireland
Another trip down an ancient railway line, the Comber Greenway in Northern Ireland offers a serene journey from Belfast to Comber. As you pedal along this 7-mile route, you'll be treated to views of rolling hills and the occasional glimpse of historic landmarks, including Scrabo Tower. Quaint villages such as Dundonald and Moneyreagh dot the route, each unique in character, providing ample opportunity to pause and soak up the local atmosphere. The path is pretty smooth with some gentle inclines here and there, meaning it should be achievable for cyclists of varying levels. Full of stunning scenery and offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of Northern Ireland's countryside, this is one bike ride you won't want to miss!
Linlithgow to Blackness Loop, Scotland
For the aspiring historians among you, there’s no better cycle route than the Linlithgow to Blackness Loop! Starting in Linlithgow, you'll pedal through the town's ancient streets before passing Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots! A magnificent ruin surrounded by a beautiful loch with swans, it really is a sight to behold. As you continue your ride towards the village of Blackness, you will come across stunning panoramic views of Scotland's Firth of Forth. Arriving at Blackness, it would be a crime not to stop and check out Blackness Castle, built in the 15th century. Having served as a royal residence, a prison and most recently the set of many popular TV shows, it's bursting with history! This route covers around 12 miles in total. While the first section is pretty easy, be warned that the path gets a little trickier as you reach the coast. There are some busy road crossings along the way too, so we suggest leaving any little ones at home for this particular biking itinerary.
Mountain biking enthusiasts should check out BikePark Wales!
For mountain biking enthusiasts, BikePark Wales offers a unique experience in the heart of the Welsh countryside. With over 40 trails suitable for various skill levels, riders can enjoy thrilling descents and technical challenges! For beginners and those looking for a more relaxed ride, trails including the Vicious Valley and Blue Belle offer gentle routes through scenic woodland. On the other end of the spectrum, experienced riders can confront steep descents, jumps and berms to really test their skill by tackling trails A470 Line and Enter The Dragon! From bike hire to coaching sessions, mountain bikers are provided with everything they need to have a good time here! So, whether you're seeking adventure or simply want to explore the beauty of Wales on wheels, BikePark Wales is the place for you!
Get out your map and enjoy a bike ride today!
So now that we've given you the rundown on British cycle routes, all that's left to do is pack your snacks in your backpack, get your bike out from the shed and get pedalling! And if, before you get going, you're looking for inspiration on how to gear up for your next adventure, why not check out our guide to What Clothes to Wear for Casual Cycling?