11 Best Cycling Routes in the UK

Did you know the National Cycle Network (NCN) is made up of over 8,400 km of traffic-free cycle paths? That’s a whole lot of cycling, so we thought we’d take our favourite 11 cycling routes to give you a taste of some of Britain’s best riding. With the swell of riders taking to the streets in the last couple of years, our routes here will inspire your future cycling adventures.

Tarka Trail, Devon

As one of the longest traffic-free cycling routes in the UK, the Tarka Trail is a catwalk for local wildlife and nature spots in the beautiful county of Devon. Beaches, mudflats and woodland are in abundance as you circumnavigate the almost 280 km route. It’s broken down into two loops with Barnstaple at the centre.

The North Loop is 120 km meandering through granite cliff tops and ancient woodland before turning west and following the coast. You’ll visit beautiful coastal villages such as Ilfracombe and Woolacombe before tracing the trails around the Taw estuary on your way back to Barnstaple.

The South Loop is also 120 km and includes a 50 km stretch of disused railway line between the villages of Braunton and Bideford. This section is flat and ideal for inexperienced cyclists and families to give them a taste of the freedom of cycling.

Bristol to Bath Cycle Path

Two of south west England’s most historic cities are conveniently connected via the Bristol to Bath traffic-free cycle path. The route was the first major project for Sustrans, a cycling charity, when building began in 1979. It opened in 1986 and is utilised by commuters, pootlers, weekend escapees and everyone in between.

At just over 20 km, it’s densely packed with refreshment stops and even a working steam engine. There’s plenty to see at either end of the trail too with Bath’s thermal spas and roman baths or Bristol’s buzzing food scene.

Enjoy the Bristol to Bath bike path with friends and family any time of the year but don’t forget to stop and take in the sights on your travels. More information can be found on the Sustrans website.

Elan Valley Trail

Wales never fails and this holds true when you witness the natural beauty of the Elan Valley in mid-Wales. The out-and-back route climbs past three reservoirs that were completed in 1904 to supply water to Birmingham via a 117 km pipeline. More information about the construction of these engineering masterpieces can be found at the Visitor Centre (which conveniently houses a cafe) before you begin your journey.

The highlight of the trail has to be the dam wall at Caban Coch Dam over which millions of gallons of water spill when the dam is full.

Since the route is one of the shortest in our collection at just over 14 km, it’s ideal for day trips with the family as well as part of a longer tour for more experienced cyclists.

Mawddach Trail, Dolgellau

Snowdonia National Park is a haven for cyclists of all abilities. Quieter than average roads and an abundance of small lanes make it an ideal destination for cycling holidays. One of the best ways to experience the rolling hills and stunning coastline is on the 14 km Mawddach Trail from Dolgellau.

The traffic-free trail follows the estuary of its namesake river before reaching the mouth at Barmouth where you’ll ride along the grade II listed 820 metre timber railway viaduct. Be mindful of pedestrians along this stretch as it’s very popular with hikers and bikers alike.

Take a short break to appreciate the view out to see then explore Barmouth’s pretty town centre. From here you can loop back towards Dolgellau or, if you want to explore more of Snowdonia, head north towards Harlech with the coast on your left and the mountains on your right.

The Busway, Cambridge

Cambridge has become somewhat of a cycling Mecca over the years thanks to a large investment in infrastructure from the local council. One such investment is the cycle path adjacent to the city’s Guided Busway which connects with St. Ives and Huntingdon.

You can enjoy large tarmacked sections of the cycle path from the heart of Cambridgeshire. Just before you reach St. Ives, pull over at RSPB Fen Drayton Lakes and enjoy the ample bird life. With no hills and protected cycleways for almost the entire length of this route, it’s ideal for taking the kids out.

Don’t miss out on visiting some of Cambridge’s beautiful buildings including the prestigious university colleges, Cambridge University Botanic Garden and the many museums around the city centre.

Peak District National Park, Derbyshire

The UK’s oldest National Park is home to some of the most scenic cycling infrastructure in the country. First up, there’s the Monsal Trail which begins just outside Buxton and goes all the way to the market town of Bakewell. Frequent tunnels reveal unique views at either end and the Monsal Head bridge is a true highlight of the trail with sweeping views of the valley.

The High Peak Trail and Tissington Trail are both accessible from Parsley Hay. Like the Monsal Trail, they’re former railway lines so they’re flat and traffic-free. Both trails have frequent areas to pull over and enjoy a picnic with your friends.

All three of these biking trails are an ideal starting point for exploring the Peak District National Park by bike.

York to Selby, Yorkshire

There’s a reason many refer to Yorkshire as God’s Own Country: filled with unadulterated beauty spots spanning the entire county, seeing really is believing and we reckon it’s best seen by bike. The surrounding countryside has been put on the map thanks to the Tour de Yorkshire, the Tour de France’s sister event.

The medieval city of York gives visitors a real taste of history. Visit the Jorvik Viking Centre to experience Viking Britain or indulge yourself at the world renown Betty’s Tea Rooms. Afterwards, you can ride your bike along the 23 km cycle path to Selby which is home to Selby Abbey which was founded in 1069.

Lake District, Cumbria

Often synonymous with mountain passes, tough gradients and unparalleled scenery, the Lake District is a must-visit place for every cyclist. You’d best bring your climbing legs though as there are few routes that don’t pack in a decent amount of elevation.

What the Lake District lacks in dedicated traffic-free routes, it more than makes up for with quiet, narrow lanes. Keswick, Ambleside and Kendal are three great bases before you get your teeth into Cumbria’s contours.

We recommend the shores of Windermere for a first taste of what the Lake District can offer and it’s perfect for all ages and abilities. Don’t miss out on the Windermere Bike Boat to turn your ride into a real adventure across the water. On the other side, you can visit Wray Castle or enjoy a picnic or pitstop at one of the many eateries around the lake.

Hadrian’s Cycleway

Britain has many coast to coast (C2C) cycling routes but there’s something quite special about following the historic Hadrian’s Wall that dates back to Roman times. This 275 km route begins in Ravenglass in Cumbria and snakes its way across England via Roman forts, quaint villages and market towns.

Most avid adventurers tackle this route on a road bike in around 3 days, while others take a more leisurely approach preferring to stop and smell the roses en route. While the start and finish are relatively flat, the middle section features a few short, steep hills - nothing a wide range of gears can’t handle.

Hebridean Way Cycling Route

Scotland’s Outer Hebrides are a sight to behold. Over the course of this 300 km cycling route, you will experience the very best of what Scotland has to offer. The key to enjoying this route is to take your time and enjoy every pedal stroke.

From the rugged hills to the pristine beaches, this cycling route will never cease to amaze you as you work your way across 10 islands. The views are aplenty and with many sights to see, there’s something to explore around every corner.

Slieve Croob Cycling Route

Northern Ireland is home to some of the UK’s best countryside. The Mourne Mountains rise up from the south eastern coast up to 500 metres above sea level. The 300 km cycling route, you will experience the very best of what Scotland has to offer. The key to enjoying this route is to take your time and enjoy every pedal stroke.

From the rugged hills to the pristine beaches, this cycling route will never cease to amaze you as you work your way across 10 islands. The views are aplenty and with many sights to see, there’s something to explore around every corner.