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United Kingdom
England
East Of England

Kempston

The best cycling routes around Kempston

4.5

(307)

2,261

riders

249

rides

Touring cycling around Kempston offers accessible routes through scenic riverine landscapes. The region is characterized by the meandering River Great Ouse, which flows through river meadows, providing a serene backdrop for cycling. These routes often connect to a wider network, avoiding busy roads and linking residential areas to the countryside. The terrain is generally flat, with minimal elevation gain on many routes, making it suitable for various cycling abilities.

Best touring cycling routes around Kempston

  • The most popular touring cycling…

Last updated: May 17, 2026

4.6

(5)

20

riders

#1.

Grafham Water gravel loop from Bedford

69.0km

04:16

320m

320m

Cycle a moderate 42.9-mile gravel loop from Bedford to Grafham Water, enjoying scenic views and traffic-free paths around the reservoir.

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Moderate

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

Hard
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Popular around Kempston

Road Cycling Routes around Kempston

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Gravel biking around Kempston

Tips from the Community

samuelbarrett
March 23, 2025, The Cowshed Café

Really cycling-friendly cafe: good food and coffee, drinking water tap, bike racks with plenty of space. Only thing I'd say is that the portions are a little small for the price.

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Tomzo
February 23, 2025, The Cowshed Café

It’s good. Coffee is excellent as is the sausage rolls.

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mccalni
January 4, 2025, The Cowshed Café

carrot cake is particularly excellent.

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Jay P
October 26, 2024, Historic Stone Church

Good spot to catch your breath

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andyfry
September 26, 2024, The Cowshed Café

Perfect cyclists' (and walkers') cafe. Great coffee. Even better sausage rolls. Good local roads.

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foxy44
August 27, 2024, Stevington Windmill

Stevington Winmill is a historic post mill. It is a Grade II listed building and is one of the few remaining post mills in the United Kingdom. The mill was built in the early 19th century and was used to grind corn. It was powered by a sails that turned a vertical shaft, which in turn drove the millstones. The mill ceased operation in the early 20th century, but it was later restored and is now open to the public. To get inside the windmill it is possible to borrow a key from one of the two village pubs but they were closed on my visit on a Tuesday

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Don't follow Komoot strictly (like I did) 😉 - obey the signs from farmer/landowner & NCN signs - small mistakes can be forgiven, I suppose, when we new to the area.

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The cycle path along the top of the dam is wide and flat and gives great views across the reservoir. Reach it from the Visitor Centre at the northern end although access at the southern end is trickier as you have to squeeze through a narrow gap next to a locked gate by the main road.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available around Kempston?

Kempston offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 260 different paths to explore. These routes cater to various preferences, from leisurely rides along the river to more challenging long-distance loops.

Are there easy or beginner-friendly touring cycling routes in Kempston?

Yes, Kempston is well-suited for beginners and those seeking easy rides. There are over 120 easy routes, many of which follow the flat, meandering River Great Ouse through picturesque river meadows, offering minimal elevation gain.

What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while cycling around Kempston?

The primary landscape feature is the serene River Great Ouse, which meanders through picturesque river meadows. You'll encounter rich wildlife, including various fish and bird species like kingfishers, and often ride alongside willow-lined riverbanks. The routes also connect to wider countryside views, avoiding busy roads.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?

Yes, many touring cycling routes around Kempston are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Grafham Water gravel loop from Bedford and the River Great Ouse in Bedford – Priory Lake loop from Bedford, which offer diverse scenery and distances.

What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see along the cycling routes?

Cyclists can discover several interesting landmarks and natural attractions. You might pass by historical sites like Stevington Windmill or the historic Kempston Mill. Natural highlights include Priory Lake, Stewartby Lake, and the tranquil Kempston Riverside Park.

Are there any family-friendly cycling routes in Kempston?

Absolutely. Many routes along the River Great Ouse are suitable for families due to their flat terrain and scenic, traffic-free sections. These paths often feature minimal elevation gain, making them enjoyable for all ages and skill levels.

What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Kempston?

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Kempston, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 280 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's accessible routes, the serene riverine landscapes, and the opportunity to explore historical landmarks and natural beauty away from busy roads.

Can I find routes that avoid busy roads?

Yes, a key characteristic of cycling around Kempston is its focus on routes that avoid busy main roads. The network is designed to connect residential areas to the countryside, utilizing dedicated paths and quieter lanes, especially along the River Great Ouse.

Where can I find information about cycling maps or networks in Kempston?

For detailed cycling maps and information on the wider Bedford Cycle Network, including routes that connect Kempston to other areas, you can refer to resources provided by the local council. The Bedford and Kempston Cycling and Walking map details various routes. You can find more information on the official Bedford Borough Council website: bedford.gov.uk.

Are there any longer touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?

Yes, for more experienced cyclists seeking longer rides, Kempston offers several options. Routes like the River Ouse loop from Bedford – Sywell Country Park (over 75 km) or the River Great Ouse in Bedford – Grafham Water loop from Bedford (over 78 km) provide challenging distances and diverse scenery.

What are the typical surface types for touring cycling routes in Kempston?

The routes around Kempston feature a mix of surface types. Many paths are well-paved, especially those connecting urban areas or popular river sections. However, some longer or more rural loops, such as the Grafham Water gravel loop from Bedford, may include unpaved sections, offering a varied touring experience.

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