The best cycling routes in the United Kingdom

Cycle the Monsal Trail, a moderate 16.4 miles (26.4 km) route that winds through the stunning Peak District National Park. You will gain 1278 feet (389 metres) over an estimated 1 hour and 51 minutes, following a disused railway line. As you pedal, you will pass through a series of six old railway tunnels, four of which are lit, and cross the impressive Headstone Viaduct, offering memorable views of Monsal Dale and the River Wye below.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Monsal Trail is known for its accessibility. You can find parking and cycle hire facilities at various points along the route, including Hassop Station and Blackwell Mill. While the tunnels are lit during daylight hours, carrying a bike light is a good idea for added visibility and comfort. This traffic-free path is suitable for families and offers a pleasant outing for touring cyclists.

This route stands out as a unique way to experience the Peak District's limestone dales, transforming a piece of railway history into an active outdoor adventure. The trail's flat, well-maintained surface makes it an inviting option for many abilities, allowing you to focus on the changing landscapes. It provides a distinct perspective on the region's natural beauty and engineering heritage, making it a popular choice for a leisurely ride.

Embark on the Round the Island Cycle Route, a difficult touring bicycle adventure around the Isle of Wight. This challenging route spans 67.5 miles (108.7 km) and features a significant elevation gain of 3616 feet (1102 metres), typically taking around 6 hours and 52 minutes to complete. You will experience diverse terrain, from country lanes and traffic-free paths to hilly sections, especially in the south and west around Wroxall and Ventnor. As you cycle, you will be treated to superb coastal views, particularly along the west coast from Yarmouth to Freshwater, and pass iconic landmarks like The Needles.

Planning your ride, you should know the route is well-signposted, with blue signs for anti-clockwise travel and white signs for clockwise. While it is challenging to complete in a single day, you can easily split it into more manageable sections over several days. There are numerous places to stop for food, drink, and rest along the way. If you find the hills too strenuous, a

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle adventure around Rutland Water, starting from Oakham. This 25.0 miles (40.3 km) loop offers a mix of tarmac and gravel paths, taking you through rolling countryside, woodlands, and past the expansive views of England's largest man-made lake. You will encounter gentle undulations for most of the 2 hours and 40 minutes ride, but be prepared for some challenging inclines, especially through Barnsdale Wood and on the Hambleton Peninsula, which add 592 feet (180 metres) of elevation gain. The iconic 18th-century Normanton Church, partially submerged and standing majestically on a peninsula, is a highlight along the way.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the route is largely traffic-free and connects to National Cycle Network route 63 directly from Oakham. You will find ample amenities around the reservoir, including car parks, cafes, and picnic areas, making it easy to refuel or take a break. Bike hire is available at Rutland Cycling in Whitwell, and charming villages like Manton offer pubs such as The Horse & Jockey for refreshments. This trail is suitable for various fitness levels, accommodating both family rides and more experienced touring cyclists.

The Rutland Water loop is particularly notable for its rich natural environment and historical landmarks. The Rutland Water Nature Reserve is a significant feature, providing excellent opportunities for bird-watching, with osprey sightings common between April and September. Beyond the striking Normanton Church, the picturesque Hambleton Peninsula offers superb water views. The largely traffic-free nature of the route ensures a safe and enjoyable cycling experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the diverse scenery and wildlife.

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle loop around the Ladybower, Derwent, and Howden Reservoirs, covering 16.8 miles (27.0 km) with an elevation gain of 1186 feet (361 metres). This route typically takes around 2 hours to complete, winding through a landscape of majestic waters, rolling hills, and dense woodlands. You will experience a mix of mostly off-road trails and minor roads, with extensive paved surfaces and compacted gravel paths. The eastern edge of Ladybower Reservoir features a gravel track, offering a varied terrain as you cycle through the dramatic Upper Derwent Valley.

For your visit, the Fairholmes Visitor Centre is a common starting point, providing parking, refreshments, and bicycle hire facilities. The terrain is suitable for touring, hybrid, gravel, and mountain bikes, though some unpaved or rougher sections exist. Be aware that during winter, parts of the route might have puddle-filled potholes, and icy conditions can make certain sections challenging. While generally well-maintained, some gravel paths can be roughened by forestry work, so plan your ride accordingly.

This route offers a rich blend of natural beauty and history. You will pass the impressive, over 100-year-old gothic towers of the Howden and Derwent Dams, famous as a practice site for the

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle ride along the Tissington Trail, covering 27.3 miles (43.9 km) with an elevation gain of 1231 feet (375 metres). This journey through the Derbyshire Dales offers a relaxed pace, taking about 3 hours to complete. You will cycle through rolling hills and lush fields, enjoying panoramic views of the Peak District National Park. The route passes by the charming village of Tissington, where you can spot the historic Tissington Hall. Expect serene woodlands and glimpses of traditional limestone walls as you pedal.

The Tissington Trail is generally flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for most touring bicycles. While the surface is mostly smooth, some sections might be coarser, so consider wider tires for a more comfortable ride. You can easily access the route from starting points such as Ashbourne and Parsley Hay. Bike hire facilities are available at these locations if you need to rent equipment. Plan your visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the scenery.

This trail follows a former railway line, which explains its gentle gradient and easy navigation. As you ride, you will be treated to views towards the dramatic Dovedale ravine. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including birds, deer, and rabbits, especially vibrant during spring and summer. The trail offers a peaceful way to experience the natural beauty and heritage of the Peak District.

Embark on the Kielder Lakeside Way, a moderate touring cycling route that circles Kielder Water, Britain's largest artificial lake. This 20.8-mile (33.5 km) journey will see you gaining 1211 feet (369 metres) in elevation, typically taking around 2 hours and 34 minutes to complete. As you pedal, you will experience diverse terrain, from dense forests to open lakeside paths, with the impressive Kielder Viaduct offering a notable visual landmark along the way.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the route is a multi-user path shared with walkers and horse riders. While generally family-friendly, be prepared for some undulating sections and challenging hills, particularly on the lake's northern side. You can find essential amenities like toilets, cafes, and bike hire services at visitor centers located at Kielder Castle, Tower Knowe, and Kielder Waterside, making it easy to prepare for your ride.

The Kielder Lakeside Way offers more than just scenic views; it provides a chance to connect with nature and history. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including red squirrels and ospreys, as you traverse the route. You will also encounter unique art installations and architectural features, such as the monumental Kielder Dam, which add cultural depth to your touring cycling adventure around this significant body of water.

Embark on the Thames Path and Richmond Park Loop, a moderate touring bicycle adventure that spans 27.5 miles (44.2 km) with 507 feet (155 metres) of elevation gain. This route offers a delightful blend of tranquil riverside cycling along the Thames, where you can spot historic landmarks like Hampton Court Palace, and the expansive, undulating roads within Richmond Park. You will experience diverse scenery, from picturesque homes by the river to the natural beauty of the park, all achievable in about 2 hours and 52 minutes.

When planning your trip, be aware that while much of the Thames Path National Trail restricts cycling, this specific route utilizes designated sections where touring bicycles are welcome. Inside Richmond Park, it is crucial to stick to marked paths and roads, observe speed limits, and always yield to pedestrians. You can reach the starting point using public transport, and trains often accommodate bikes, though you might need to reserve a space for your bicycle.

This loop stands out for its unique combination of urban riverside charm and the wild, open spaces of a Royal Park. Richmond Park is a significant highlight, offering impressive viewpoints and the chance to observe free-roaming deer, ancient trees, and a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. It provides a refreshing escape into nature, showcasing London's diverse landscapes and making it a notable cycling experience in the region.

The Bradford on Avon, Bath and the Two Tunnels Greenway offers a moderate touring bicycle ride, covering 21.6 miles (34.8 km) with 796 feet (243 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete it in about 2 hours and 11 minutes. This route combines picturesque countryside, historic canals, and charming Wiltshire villages. You will cycle alongside the peaceful Kennet & Avon Canal, spotting wildlife like kingfishers and herons, and pass the impressive 19th-century Dundas Aqueduct. The terrain varies from paved surfaces and compacted gravel to unsealed, rougher sections along the canal towpath, so robust tires are a good idea. As you approach Bath, you will enjoy views of the city's Georgian crescents.

The route is generally considered an intermediate ride, though the Two Tunnels Greenway section itself is largely flat and accessible for families. The full circuit can take around 2 hours and 29 minutes for intermediate riders. Some sections on quiet country lanes can be steep, and the canal path can be bumpy. E-bikes are recommended by some to make the journey more accessible and enjoyable, especially on the rougher canal sections or for those concerned about the distance. The trail is part of the National Cycle Network, specifically NCN 244, indicating a well-maintained and signposted path.

A highlight of this route is cycling through the two historic railway tunnels: the Devonshire Tunnel and the Combe Down Tunnel. The Combe Down Tunnel is over one mile long (1672 meters), making it the UK's longest cycling and walking tunnel, featuring an interactive light and sound installation called 'Passage'. Large sections of the ride follow the Kennet & Avon Canal Towpath, providing a peaceful, traffic-free environment rich in wildlife and history. The greenway utilizes former railway lines, disused after the Beeching cuts in 1966, giving it a rich historical context. This trail offers a diverse adventure, blending urban cycling in Bath with picturesque countryside and the unique experience of cycling through disused railway tunnels.