The best road cycling routes in Warwickshire

Warwickshire offers a diverse range of road cycling routes, from leisurely rides along quiet country lanes and traffic-free greenways to more challenging ascents in areas like the Burton Dassett Hills. You'll find sections of the National Cycle Network, including Route 5, Route 41, and the Lias Line (NCN 41), alongside routes that explore river valleys and the rolling hills of the Cotswolds in the south.

Yes, Warwickshire has many options for beginners and families. The Coombe Abbey & Brinkwell Castle loop from Rugby is an easy 27.3-mile path that passes historical landmarks. The Stratford Greenway, following a former railway line, offers a family-friendly, well-surfaced route into Stratford-upon-Avon, and the Kenilworth Greenway (NCN 523) provides a traffic-free path. Kingsbury Water Park also offers child-friendly cycling with bike hire and miles of surfaced paths.

For more experienced cyclists, Warwickshire offers routes with sustained climbs and longer distances. The Tysoe, Ilmington & Warwick loop from Lemington Spa is a difficult 64-mile route with significant elevation gain. Another challenging option is the Broadway Village – Snowshill Climb loop from Stratford-upon-Avon, which covers over 75 miles and features substantial climbs.

Warwickshire's routes often pass by significant historical sites. You can cycle past the magnificent Kenilworth Castle, the iconic Brinklow Castle (the Tump), or the grand Warwick Castle. The Warwick & Kenilworth Castles loop from Henley-in-Arden is a great option for combining cycling with sightseeing. Many routes also pass through historic towns like Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwick, and Kenilworth.

Absolutely. The southern part of Warwickshire touches the Cotswolds, offering rolling hills and scenic beauty. You can find panoramic views over four counties from Hartshill Hayes Country Park, or enjoy the ascents and stunning natural scenery of Burton Dassett Hills Country Park. The Offchurch Greenway also provides fine views across South Warwickshire. The Edgehill & Upton House loop from Stratford upon Avon takes you through areas with historical significance and scenic vistas.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Warwickshire, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 800 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the extensive network of quiet country lanes, the varied terrain, and the opportunities to combine rides with visits to historic towns and natural attractions. Over 24,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the region.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Warwickshire are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Northern Warwickshire Cycleway, which traverses varied landscapes in the north, and the Charlecote Park – Moreton Paddox Fields loop from Stratford-upon-Avon, offering a moderate ride through picturesque countryside.

The spring and summer months generally offer the most favorable weather for road cycling in Warwickshire, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures, potentially wet conditions, and shorter days.

Many routes in Warwickshire start from towns and villages with public parking facilities. For information on specific cycle routes and potential public transport access points, you can consult resources like the Warwickshire County Council's cycling pages: Warwickshire Cycle Routes.

Warwickshire's charming villages and historic towns frequently feature cafes, pubs, and other amenities, making it easy to plan refreshment stops during your ride. Many routes are designed to pass through or near these locations, offering opportunities for a break and to experience local hospitality.

There are over 1,700 road cycling routes available in Warwickshire on komoot. This includes nearly 700 easy routes, over 1,000 moderate routes, and more than 60 difficult routes, catering to all skill levels.

Yes, several routes offer glimpses of stately homes and beautiful gardens. For instance, the Edgehill & Upton House loop from Stratford upon Avon passes by Upton House. Charlecote Park, a 16th-century stately home with parkland, is also often included in cycling routes from Warwick to Stratford-upon-Avon, such as the Charlecote Park – Moreton Paddox Fields loop from Stratford-upon-Avon.