4.6
(22)
278
riders
41
rides
Touring cycling around Saffron Walden offers routes through a largely unspoiled rural area in northwest Essex. The region is characterized by rolling countryside, scenic landscapes, and charming villages. Terrain includes a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, with some routes featuring moderate elevation gains. The area provides a tranquil backdrop for outdoor exploration by bike.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
7
riders
61.3km
03:38
310m
310m
This moderate 38.1-mile touring cycling loop from Saffron Walden to Cambridge offers scenic countryside, charming villages, and cafe stops.
5.0
(1)
31
riders
25.3km
01:37
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(1)
14
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
36.6km
02:17
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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An enchanting woodland section with trees arching over the gravel path
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High point and great views over undulating hills
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Now called Blossom Bites. The staff are excellent, and the owner, Emma, is a lovely lady with fierce sence of humour . Outside space for bikes in the front and rear accessed to the right of the entrance. Outside seating as well as plenty of space inside. Excellent bacon and egg sandwiches, cakes and smoothies. A large range of cakes as well. Clean and unisex toilet. A very good place to stop on a ride. Sept 24 update Now serves beer and wine and has special evening events. They have 10% discount for cyclists. New extended menu. Well worth a visit especially as there are 5 old green lanes within 10 minutes.
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picturesque village with an idyllic pub location!
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Quiet stretch of road. Great views from here.
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1
This cafe has now changed management and is called Waffle and Coffee. Still has bike racks and outside seating although I did not see the bike locks last time I was there. Staff still great and the food is even better. Bacon and egg sandwich is very good. Coffee, Tea and cakes and of course waffles. Good clean toilets so well worth visiting as a rest stop.
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Saffron Walden offers a diverse network of nearly 50 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 12 easy, 31 moderate, and 5 challenging options, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.
Yes, Saffron Walden provides several family-friendly cycling options. While specific routes are not detailed here, the region's largely unspoiled rural area and numerous cycle paths offer a tranquil backdrop for family rides. For more information on family activities, you might find resources on the local tourism site helpful, such as this guide to Family Fun in the Green Spaces of Saffron Walden.
The routes around Saffron Walden feature a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, traversing rolling countryside and charming villages. While many routes are mostly paved, some might include more challenging unpaved sections and moderate elevation gains, offering varied experiences for touring cyclists.
Yes, there are several circular touring cycling routes. A popular option is the Waffle (Formerly Bicicletta) – Finchingfield Village Green loop from Saffron Walden, a 50.4 km trail through rolling countryside. Another is the Saffron Walden to Cambridge loop via Bicicletta cafe & Espresso Library, which is 61.3 km and offers scenic countryside views.
The Saffron Walden area is rich in historical and natural attractions. Along your rides, you might encounter sites like the Audley End House, a historic Jacobean mansion, or the ancient Roman Road. The region also features beautiful natural settings such as the Babraham Ford and Footbridge, offering picturesque views.
Saffron Walden town center provides bike racks in short-stay car parks, making it convenient to park your bicycle. This allows you to explore the town's medieval center and nearby attractions before or after your ride.
Yes, Saffron Walden is accessible by public transport for cyclists. A suggested cycle route connects Audley End train station directly to Saffron Walden town center, facilitating easy arrival by train and continuation of your journey by bike. For more details on getting to Saffron Walden, you can check the local visitor information on cycling to Saffron Walden.
For those seeking a challenge, Saffron Walden offers routes with more significant elevation gains. One such route is the Coploe Hill Pit Nature Reserve – Akesden to Claver End Road loop from Saffron Walden, a 42.8 km trail classified as difficult, featuring substantial ascents and descents.
The touring cycling routes around Saffron Walden are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic countryside, charming villages, and the tranquil backdrop for outdoor exploration. Over 300 touring cyclists have used komoot to discover the varied terrain of the area.
Yes, several routes incorporate convenient stops. For instance, the Elder Street Café & Deli – Monk's Farm Byway loop from Saffron Walden is designed to include a cafe stop. The Waffle (Formerly Bicicletta) is also a popular cafe often featured in local cycling routes, providing a great spot for refreshments.
The rolling countryside around Saffron Walden is beautiful throughout much of the year. Spring offers vibrant landscapes and the chance to see bluebells, while summer provides longer daylight hours for extended rides. Autumn brings stunning foliage, and even winter can be enjoyable on milder days, though some unpaved sections might be muddier.
Yes, for those looking for longer rides, the Saffron Walden to Cambridge loop via Bicicletta cafe & Espresso Library is a substantial 61.3 km route. Another option is the Finchingfield Village Green – Waffle (Formerly Bicicletta) loop from Saffron Walden, covering 41.7 km through picturesque landscapes.


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