The best traffic-free bike rides around Chiltern

There are over 140 no traffic touring cycling routes available in the Chilterns. This includes a wide variety of options, with 40 easy routes, 66 moderate routes, and 37 difficult routes to choose from.

The Chilterns, as a chalk escarpment, offer a diverse landscape. You can expect scenic rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and tranquil river valleys. The terrain often features undulating routes, including some challenging steep climbs and descents, as well as more gentle sections. While focusing on no-traffic routes, be aware that some paths might include sections on bridleways or unsurfaced tracks, especially in areas like Wendover Woods or Ashridge Estate.

The no traffic touring cycling routes in the Chilterns are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 100 ratings. Cyclists often praise the peacefulness of the routes, the beautiful countryside, and the variety of landscapes encountered, from open fields to sheltered woodlands.

Yes, the Chilterns offer several family-friendly options. The Phoenix Trail, a seven-mile cycleway built along a disused railway line between Thame and Princes Risborough, is particularly suitable, featuring over 30 artworks and wildlife spotting opportunities. Another good option is the Waddesdon Greenway, a three-mile path connecting Aylesbury Vale Parkway Station to Waddesdon village, providing access to Waddesdon Manor.

Many of the no traffic touring cycling routes in the Chilterns are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Great Missenden village – The Lee Village Green loop from Amersham is a moderate 42 km route, and the The Lee Village Green – Chiltern Velo Café loop from Amersham covers 46 km, both offering circular experiences.

The Chilterns are beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are often considered ideal for touring cycling. In spring, the woodlands burst with bluebells, and in autumn, the foliage offers stunning colors. Summer provides longer daylight hours, though some routes can be busier. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy sections on unsurfaced paths and colder temperatures.

Yes, many villages and towns throughout the Chilterns, which serve as starting points for routes, offer public parking facilities. Locations like Amersham, Beaconsfield, and Princes Risborough typically have car parks. Additionally, specific attractions like Wendover Woods and Ashridge Estate have dedicated parking for visitors.

The Chilterns are well-connected by public transport, making them accessible for cyclists. Train lines from London serve towns such as Amersham, Great Missenden, and Princes Risborough, which are excellent starting points for many routes. Some routes, like the Waddesdon Greenway, even start directly from a station (Aylesbury Vale Parkway).

Along the no traffic touring cycling routes, you can discover a variety of natural and historical attractions. Highlights include the River Chess Stepping Stones and Weir, the historic Old Amersham Town Centre, and the picturesque Shardeloes Lake. You might also encounter ancient sites like Cholesbury Camp Iron Age Hill Fort or enjoy the tranquility of Prestwood Local Nature Reserve.

Yes, the Chilterns are dotted with charming villages and market towns that offer numerous opportunities for refreshments. You'll find country pubs, cafes, and tea rooms along or just off many routes. For example, the Burnham Beeches – The Beeches Eco Cafe loop from Beaconsfield specifically includes a cafe stop. Many routes pass through villages where you can easily find a place to refuel.