The best road cycling routes in the East Of England

The Southern Broads loop offers a moderate racebike experience, guiding you through the distinctive landscape of The Broads National Park. You will cover 36.5 miles (58.8 km) with an elevation gain of 1106 feet (337 metres), a journey that typically takes around 2 hours and 39 minutes. As you cycle, you will encounter charming villages and tranquil waterways, with a highlight being the unique crossing of the River Yare via the Reedham Ferry.

When planning your ride, consider starting and finishing at Whitlingham Country Park for convenient access. Be aware that using the Reedham Ferry to cross the River Yare involves a small fee, so have some cash ready. The route is mostly on well-paved surfaces, but you might encounter some unpaved sections, so prepare for varied conditions under your wheels.

This route stands out for its immersive journey through the Broads, allowing you to witness the serene marshes of Buckenham and Strumpshaw. You will enjoy expansive views of the waterways and the diverse wildlife that calls this area home. It is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and unique character of this protected landscape.

Cycle the Cambridge to Newmarket loop, a moderate 46.5 miles (74.9 km) route designed for racebike enthusiasts. You will gain 1268 feet (386 metres) over an estimated 3 hours and 39 minutes, taking you through varied landscapes. As you pedal, you will pass historic villages like Stow cum Quy and Swaffham Prior, where the unique Twin Churches stand out. Further along, the scenery shifts to the open expanses of stud farms and the Warren Hill Gallops near Newmarket, giving you a glimpse into the horse racing world. This route offers a blend of rural charm and historic sights, making for a diverse cycling experience.

You can easily begin your ride from Cambridge, as the starting point is well-served by public transport. While the route primarily uses asphalt and paved roads, be ready for some segments that might be unpaved or feature cobblestones. This means you should prepare for varied surfaces during your ride. Additionally, parts of the route follow established cycling infrastructure, specifically National Cycle Routes 11 and 51, which can help with navigation.

This loop offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and diverse countryside of Cambridgeshire and Suffolk. You will encounter quaint villages and witness the distinctive architecture of the Twin Churches of Swaffham Prior. The route also provides insight into the region's equestrian heritage, with views of stud farms and the famous Warren Hill Gallops near Newmarket. It is a journey that combines rural beauty with historical landmarks, setting it apart in the local cycling landscape.

Get ready for a moderate racebike ride through the picturesque Hertfordshire countryside on the Cheshunt to Emmie Murphy's Village Store loop. This route offers a peaceful experience on well-paved roads and asphalt, covering 29.3 miles (47.1 km) with an elevation gain of 1541 feet (470 metres). You'll navigate classic rolling hills, characteristic of the region, and pass through quiet villages and agricultural landscapes. Expect to complete this scenic journey in about 2 hours and 33 minutes, making it a rewarding challenge for cyclists with good fitness. The smooth surfaces are perfect for your road bike, allowing you to focus on the beautiful surroundings.

While specific trailhead access details are not provided, as a loop, you can typically begin and end your ride in Cheshunt. The route is designed for continuous cycling, so plan your start time to allow for a comfortable pace and daylight hours. Always ensure your bike is in good condition and you carry necessary supplies for a ride of this duration and difficulty.

A key highlight of this loop is the charming Emmie Murphy's Village Store, located in Little Berkhamsted. This establishment is celebrated for its old-fashioned ambiance and a carefully curated selection of locally sourced meats, fresh-baked goods, and locally roasted coffee. It serves as an ideal and welcoming stop for cyclists looking for refreshments and to experience local produce, adding a delightful break to your journey through the Hertfordshire rolling hills.

Embark on a moderate racebike journey from Cambridge to St. Neots via St. Ives, a loop that spans 57.9 miles (93.2 km). You will experience the gentle undulations of the English countryside, gaining 963 feet (294 metres) in elevation. This route offers a smooth ride on mostly paved surfaces, guiding you through charming villages and open landscapes. Expect to complete this scenic tour in about 3 hours and 50 minutes, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere away from heavy traffic. A highlight includes the unique Cycling Family Metal Sculptures as you pass through St. Neots, adding a playful touch to your ride.

To begin your adventure, you can easily reach the starting point in Cambridge using public transport connections. If you prefer to drive, parking is conveniently available at several locations along the route, such as Godmanchester Riverside Park. Be mindful that certain parts of the Guided Busway path can be quite exposed to wind, and might even be prone to flooding after heavy rain. Checking weather conditions before you set out will help ensure a more comfortable experience.

This route stands out for its use of a dedicated cycle path that runs parallel to the Guided Busway between Cambridge and St. Ives. This provides a continuous, car-free section, making for a relaxed and uninterrupted cycling experience. The journey offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the traditional English landscape, connecting historic towns and showcasing the region's commitment to cycling infrastructure.

The Shefford to Hex Hill & Emily's Tea Room loop offers a moderately challenging road cycling experience through the attractive countryside of Central Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire. This 32.5-mile (52.3 km) route, with an elevation gain of 1312 feet (400 metres), takes approximately 2 hours and 19 minutes to complete. You will traverse varied landscapes, including rolling hills of the Greensand Ridge, tranquil river valleys, and dense woodlands. The climb up Hex Hill, a local legend, provides panoramic views, making the effort worthwhile. While mostly well-paved, be aware that the track to Emily's Tea Room can be a bit rough for road bikes.

This popular loop is highly rated by the cycling community and requires good fitness due to its rolling hills. The route is generally easy to ride on its mostly well-paved surfaces, but the track leading to Emily's Tea Room might be challenging for some road bikes; approach it with care. You should plan for a moderate challenge, especially with the steep and straight ascent of Hex Hill. Consider starting your ride early to enjoy the full experience, including a stop at the tea room.

What sets this loop apart is its combination of a significant cycling challenge with a popular, cyclist-friendly refreshment stop. Hex Hill is well-known among local cyclists for its intensity and the rewarding vistas at its summit. Emily's Tea Room in Whitwell, Hertfordshire, is a highly regarded mid-ride destination, celebrated for its good coffee, cakes, and ample outdoor seating with plenty of room for bikes.

Embark on the Chilterns Cycleway: Harpenden and Hitchin Loop, a moderate road cycling adventure designed for your racebike. This route spans 38.7 miles (62.3 km) and features 1680 feet (512 metres) of elevation gain, offering picturesque views across the undulating terrain of the Chilterns National Landscape. You will wind through green hills, gentle farmland, and tranquil valleys, passing attractive villages and even Shaw's Corner, the former home of George Bernard Shaw. Expect to complete this scenic loop in about 2 hours and 57 minutes, enjoying the blend of natural beauty and cultural interest.

When planning your ride, remember that while this specific loop is primarily on-road and well-paved, some parts of the wider Chilterns Cycleway can be unpaved. To ensure a more pleasant experience, it is best to avoid cycling during peak rush hours, typically between 7:00-9:30 AM and 4:00-6:30 PM. This helps you minimize encountering heavy traffic on the minor roads you will traverse. Always check local conditions before you head out.

This loop is a fantastic way to experience the renowned Chilterns National Landscape, known for its distinctive chalk hills and ancient woodlands. The route showcases the region's characteristic beechwood and downland, providing a serene backdrop for your ride. It offers a perfect opportunity to explore the area's natural charm and historical connections, making it a notable choice for road cyclists seeking both challenge and beauty.

Embark on the Great Chelmsford loop from Ingatstone, a moderate road cycling adventure spanning 49.7 miles (80.1 km). You will climb 1611 feet (491 metres) over approximately 3 hours and 33 minutes, making it a substantial ride. The route guides you through the scenic Essex countryside, offering quiet country roads and views of Hanningfield Reservoir, especially from the Causeway. This journey provides a rewarding experience for cyclists looking for a good workout with pleasant surroundings.

Starting in Ingatstone, the route is easily accessible, even by public transport, making it convenient to begin your ride. You will primarily encounter well-maintained paved surfaces throughout the loop. While no specific permits or fees are needed, be ready for some climbs, like the North Hill Climb, which will challenge your legs. Consider an early morning start to enjoy the quietest roads.

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Embark on the Hertfordshire lanes loop, a moderate racebike ride through picturesque countryside. You will cover 32.6 miles (52.4 km) with 1321 feet (403 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 22 minutes. The route winds through charming villages and offers open views of rolling fields, passing ancient woodlands like Hatfield Forest. Look out for the Tudor-era houses in Much Hadham Village and prepare for the Wadesmill Hill Climb.

This loop starts and finishes in Bishop's Stortford, making it convenient for planning your day. The trail is mostly on well-paved surfaces, with asphalt and paved sections making up the majority of the route. While generally easy to ride, be aware that you might encounter some varied or challenging segments. The route is popular with local road cyclists.

A key feature of this ride is the Ware Coffee stop, which offers a good place for a break and convenient bike parking. You will also enjoy the smooth and quiet road from Ware to Hadhams. The route's design takes you through undulating hills and rolling countryside, providing a classic Hertfordshire cycling experience.

Embark on a moderate road cycling adventure along the North Norfolk Coast, covering 41.8 miles (67.3 km) with an elevation gain of 1149 feet (350 metres). This loop offers diverse scenery, from the salt marshes and beaches near Wells-next-the-Sea to the striking red and white striped cliffs of Old Hunstanton. You can expect to complete this journey in about 2 hours and 59 minutes, enjoying the coastal breeze and ever-changing views. The route provides a captivating cycling experience through the Norfolk Coast National Landscape.

While designed for road cycling, be aware that the route includes mixed surfaces and some off-road sections. For a more comfortable ride, especially if conditions are wet, consider using a hybrid or gravel bike instead of a pure racebike. Since it's a circular loop, you have the flexibility to begin your ride at any point that suits you best. Plan your visit to enjoy the varied terrain and coastal charm.

Beyond the natural beauty, the route also guides you past impressive stately homes like Holkham Hall, adding a touch of historical grandeur to your ride. You will also cycle through quaint villages, offering a comprehensive tour of the area's unique character. This journey highlights the rich tapestry of landscapes and heritage found along the North Norfolk coast.