St Ives Bridge and Chapel
St Ives Bridge and Chapel
Highlight (Segment) • Historical Site
St Ives Bridge and Chapel
Cycling
4.9
(123)
Road cycling
5.0
(3)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
Tips
July 13, 2022
Cycling
St Ives has plenty of places to pick up some refreshments.
May 10, 2025
Cycling
May 23, 2025
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near St Ives Bridge and Chapel
4.6
(8)
46
riders
88.7km
05:16
180m
180m
Embark on a challenging touring bicycle loop from Cambridge, covering 55.1 miles (88.7 km) with a modest 595 feet (181 metres) of elevation gain. This difficult route typically takes around 5 hours and 15 minutes to complete. You will cycle through the unique natural beauty of the Fens, meandering past picturesque meadows and following the River Cam and River Great Ouse. The journey offers a blend of natural and historical sights, with the majestic Ely Cathedral standing out as a magnificent 11th-century landmark. Expect varied surfaces, including smooth asphalt on the Guided Busway cycle path, but also prepare for some unpaved sections, compacted gravel, and even cobblestones, especially near Wicken Fen.
While the terrain is generally flat, the full length of this loop requires very good fitness, especially if you encounter headwinds which can make the ride feel like a battle. A touring bike with thicker tires is recommended for comfort due to the varied surfaces, including gravelly sections near Wicken Fen and Ely. The route offers flexibility; you can opt for shorter loops around St Ives if you prefer an easier ride. Strategic stops can break up the journey, and you will find ample refreshment options in St Ives and Ely, as well as cafes like the Docky Hut Café at Wicken Fen.
This loop is particularly notable for its largely traffic-free riding experience on the Guided Busway cycle path between Cambridge and St Ives. It incorporates sections of the National Cycle Network (Routes 11 and 51), ensuring good signposting and well-maintained paths. The route connects the iconic East Anglian settlements of Cambridge and Ely, passing through the historic town of St Ives. You will also cycle through significant nature reserves like Fen Drayton Lakes and Wicken Fen, one of Britain's oldest, offering chances to spot rare birds, wild horses, and highland cows.
3.3
(3)
11
riders
89.0km
05:17
270m
270m
Embark on a challenging touring bicycle journey from Cambridge to Grafham Water, a loop covering 55.3 miles (89.0 km) with an elevation gain of 898 feet (274 metres). This difficult route will take you around 5 hours and 17 minutes to complete, winding through picturesque English countryside. You will experience diverse landscapes, from the tranquil nature reserve of Fen Drayton Lakes, perfect for spotting local wildlife, to the expansive views over Grafham Water, England's eighth-largest reservoir. The trail offers a blend of natural beauty and historical charm, making it a rewarding ride for those seeking a substantial cycling adventure.
When planning your visit, be aware that the terrain varies significantly. You will encounter smooth tarmac sections, particularly along the Guided Busway, but also potentially rough, rutted, or muddy gravel paths, especially as you cycle around Grafham Water. Choosing a touring bicycle suitable for mixed surfaces is advisable. While much of the route is traffic-free, some segments utilize minor roads that can experience busy periods. You will find convenient spots for rest and refreshments at locations like Riverside Park, Grafham Water, and within the historic town of St Ives.
This route stands out for its unique combination of natural and historical points of interest. You can pause to admire the magnificent St Ives Bridge and Chapel, a historical gem dating back to 1414, which provides a scenic viewpoint over the River Great Ouse. The trail's path through Fen Drayton Lakes offers a chance to connect with the local ecosystem, observing various bird species and wetland habitats. It's a journey that not only tests your endurance but also immerses you in the rich tapestry of the Cambridgeshire landscape, offering a deeper appreciation for the region's heritage and natural beauty.
4.0
(106)
24
riders
Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride from Huntingdon to Fen Drayton Lakes via St Ives, largely following the smooth, paved Busway river path. This route offers pleasant views of the Cambridgeshire countryside and the tranquil Fenland landscape, with minimal elevation gain of just 154 feet (47 metres). You will cover 17.7 miles (28.4 km) in about 1 hour and 37 minutes, enjoying a mostly flat profile characteristic of the region. A highlight is the RSPB Fen Drayton Lakes nature reserve, where you can spot diverse wildlife amidst lakes, rivers, meadows, and woodlands.
While the Busway sections are wide, smooth, and mostly traffic-free, be aware that some very short segments may be unpaved. Around Fen Drayton Lakes, the terrain can become more mixed, including gravel and compacted earth paths, and may be grassy or muddy, especially after rain or in winter. The trail is considered easy, making it suitable for cyclists of all skill levels, but parts of the route around Fen Drayton Lakes can be prone to flooding in winter and early spring, so plan your visit accordingly.
This trail is notable for its integration with the Cambridgeshire Guided Busway, providing an excellent cycling corridor that was originally a service road for the busway and is part of National Cycle Network Route 51. The route uniquely blends efficient travel alongside the busway with natural immersion at the RSPB Fen Drayton Lakes, a key site for breeding and wintering birds. You can enjoy superb birdwatching opportunities, with amenities like picnic areas available for mid-ride rests.
Details
Informations
Distance 63 m
Uphill 0 m
Weather
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Thursday 11 June
22°C
14°C
49 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 29.0 km/h
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