From mountains and woodland to rolling hills and over 19,000 miles of dramatic coastline, the UK is packed with scenery that’s best explored on two wheels. Here are some of the top cycling destinations this country has to offer and some of the best routes to follow while you’re there – whatever your fitness level.
The Yorkshire Dales
Yorkshire, Cumbria and Lancashire
The Yorkshire Dales first rose to cycling fame during the 2014 Tour de France Grand Départ – and it’s easy to see why. Boasting limestone cliffs and sweeping valleys, and punctuated with charming villages, this national park in the north of England is fantastic for cycling. Pedal down remote country lanes, drinking in the ancient landscape of river valleys and magnificent hills, and look out for glimpses of the Dales’ Roman remains.
Intermediate cyclists will enjoy the Settle to Malham Cove loop in North Yorkshire, which carves through rolling countryside and includes a climb up to Malham Tarn. Or, for a greater challenge, the Park Rash climb beckons; located near Kettlewell, the route is one of the steepest in England and not for the faint-hearted!
Cornwall
With undulating hills and spectacular coastal scenery, Cornwall is a cyclist’s dream. While there are a few flat, family-friendly sections of cycle path, some of the best routes in this beautiful county are the steep coastal climbs that weave between beautiful little villages.
The Cornish Way is a perfect example. Running from Land’s End to Bude, the trail forms part of the National Cycle Network and is best tackled in stages over four or five days.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a route that’s more suitable for amateurs, the famous Camel Trail is a good place to start. Spanning 18 miles between Padstow and Bodmin, the completely traffic-free trail cuts through woodland as it follows an old railway line beside the River Camel.
The New Forest
Hampshire and Wiltshire
The New Forest is one of the UK’s smallest national parks, and the perfect size for exploring on two wheels. Criss-crossed with a mixture of undulating gravel tracks and long flat stretches of road, the New Forest offers the ideal terrain for amateur cyclists and family days out. Take it slow, look out for free-roaming ponies, donkeys and other wildlife, and stop for a pub lunch in one of the park’s picturesque villages.
The Hawkhill Trail is a great option for a chilled day out. Beginning at Round Hill Campsite between Brockenhurst and Beaulieu, this road- and traffic-free route cuts through some deep forested areas and past some of the most interesting features of Beaulieu Airfield. Or, for a slightly more challenging route, set out on the Rhinefield Ornamental Woodland Ride and marvel at the forest’s most magnificent trees.
Snowdonia, Wales
In the north-west corner of Wales lies the 823-square-mile Eryri National Park, a beautiful blend of celtic culture, mountain scenery and rugged coastline.
The star attraction is Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa), the highest mountain in England and Wales at 3,560 feet high. It can’t be tackled on a road bike but there are plenty of scenic road cycling routes in the surrounding areas, including the Llanberis Pass loop that circles the base of the mountain.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more leisurely route through some of the park’s most beautiful areas, the Mawddach Trail and Lôn Gwyrfai are perfect for beginners and families.
Isle of Arran, Scotland
Cyclists will love the hilly trails on the jaw-droppingly beautiful Isle of Arran, an hour’s ferry journey from the west coast of Scotland. The main draws, apart from the spectacular scenery, are the quiet roads and lots of places to stop for lunch.
While the island may seem small, it’s packed with trails that range from easy to challenging, so there’s something for everyone. Tackle the 55-mile Arran Circular – the island’s most popular route – or, for a less intimidating option, try the flatter Machrie Moor route, which is more suited to families.
