The best traffic-free bike rides around Grafham Water
4.5
(461)
1,464
riders
52
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Grafham Water are primarily defined by the expansive reservoir, England's third-largest, set within 1500 acres of Cambridgeshire countryside. The terrain is largely flat, featuring multi-use paths that encircle the water, making it accessible for various fitness levels. The area includes diverse habitats such as ancient woodlands, reed beds, grasslands, and wetlands, particularly within the 280-acre nature reserve at the western end. Gentle ascents are present, but the overall landscape is characterized by its open water views and surrounding natural features.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Grafham Water
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is The Grafham Trout village pub – The Willows Café loop from Grafham, a 7.9 miles (12.7 km) trail that takes 44 minutes to complete. This route offers a gentle ride with minimal elevation gain, passing through local villages and alongside the reservoir.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Grafham Water – Grafham Water loop from Grafham, an easy 13.6 miles (21.9 km) path. This circular route provides continuous views of the reservoir and its diverse natural surroundings, including woodlands and open water.
- Local touring cyclists also love the St Ives Town Centre – St Ives Bridge and Chapel loop from Buckden, a 29.3 miles (47.2 km) trail leading through rural landscapes and historic villages, often completed in about 2 hours 41 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Grafham Water is defined by the large freshwater reservoir, surrounding ancient woodlands, and well-maintained multi-use paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, from leisurely rides to longer routes incorporating nearby villages.
- The routes in Grafham Water are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 400 reviews. More than 1400 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Grafham Water's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
5.0
(1)
10
riders
12.6km
00:44
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
21.9km
01:38
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(86)
17
riders
47.1km
02:42
140m
140m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
21.9km
01:39
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
20.0km
01:17
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Grafham Water
Tips from the Community
Good riding around Graffam Lake but North side can be very bumpy on the bound gravel track (its not loose gravel). Great ride though at about 10 miles around. Highly recomended.
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The garden at the back of the cafe is now open and picture of entrance at the side and the garden added.
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8 May 2026 Update. The rear tea garden is now open as well as tables to the front. A nice area to sit although I prefer the front deck. Mandy has started making some awesome cakes and scones they have to be tried.
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Tea and coffee also available as well as usual beers. Toilets excellent and outside tables and safe places for bikes.
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April 2025 update. I suggested the bike rack at the front was reinstated as cyclists like this cafe and it has been. Lots of new things on menu including great soup and sausage rolls are excellent. Jan 2025 update. Under new ownership and refurbished. Bike rack has been removed but still places to secure your bike and visible from inside. Toilets upgraded. I was told that the rear garden was next to be worked on and have tables and chairs. There is a new menu with more cooked food such as bacon rolls (I had one and excellent) and full english as well as cakes. Veg options as well. Good coffee and pots of tea. So good upgrade all in all and worth a visit. A short distance (600m) from NCN12 as previos comment. https://www.thewillowscafe.uk/menu/
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Chocolate box village with many thatched cottages.
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Beautiful and calm cycle and foot path. It's a joy to ride here.
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A street with thatched houses at the side They look beautiful.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Grafham Water?
There are over 50 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Grafham Water, offering a variety of distances and difficulties. Most are easy to moderate, making them accessible for many cyclists.
What is the typical terrain like on the no-traffic cycling routes?
The primary 10-mile (16 km) circular route around Grafham Water is largely flat and multi-use, featuring a mix of paved surfaces and well-maintained gravel paths. Some extended routes incorporate quiet country roads and occasional unpaved sections that can be rough or muddy, especially during winter months.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic cycling routes suitable for beginners?
Yes, Grafham Water is ideal for families and beginners. The main circular route is mostly flat and easy to navigate. For a pleasant, shorter option, consider The Grafham Trout village pub – The Willows Café loop from Grafham, which is just over 12 km and has minimal elevation gain.
What natural features and viewpoints can I expect to see while cycling?
Grafham Water is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, offering diverse natural beauty. You can expect to see ancient woodlands like Savages Spinney, the abandoned coppice of Littless Wood, and the bird-rich Valley Creek Pond. The Dam Wall provides expansive views across the reservoir, and strategically placed bird hides offer excellent opportunities for wildlife observation.
Are there places to stop for refreshments or bike hire along the routes?
Yes, refreshment stops are available at Mander Park and Marlow Park, where you'll find cafes. At Marlow Park, you can also find Rutland Cycling, which offers bike hire, sales, and accessories, making it convenient if you don't bring your own bike.
What is the best time of year to cycle around Grafham Water?
Grafham Water is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant cycling conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. While winter cycling is possible, some unpaved sections might be muddy. Summer can be busy, but the no-traffic routes remain a peaceful option.
Can I bring my dog on the no-traffic cycling routes?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the multi-use paths around Grafham Water, but they must be kept on a lead to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other users. Please be mindful of local signage regarding dog access in specific areas, especially within the nature reserve.
Are there any longer no-traffic touring routes for more experienced cyclists?
Beyond the main reservoir loop, there are longer routes that extend into the surrounding countryside. For example, the St Ives Town Centre – St Ives Bridge and Chapel loop from Buckden offers a moderate 47 km ride, incorporating a mix of surfaces and exploring charming local villages.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Grafham Water?
The komoot community highly rates the cycling experience at Grafham Water, with an average score of 4.46 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the peaceful, traffic-free environment, the stunning reservoir views, and the accessibility of the routes for all skill levels, especially the well-maintained circular path.
Where can I park when visiting Grafham Water for cycling?
There are several car parks available around Grafham Water, including at Marlow Park and Mander Park, which are convenient starting points for accessing the cycling routes. These facilities often have visitor centers and amenities nearby.
Are there any circular no-traffic cycling routes available?
Yes, the most popular option is the approximately 10-mile (16 km) circular route directly around Grafham Water. For a slightly longer circular experience, consider the Grafham Water – Grafham Water loop from Grafham, which covers over 21 km and offers more varied scenery.
Most popular routes around Grafham Water
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