The UK Has World-Class Cycling on Its Doorstep

You don't need to travel abroad to find a memorable ride. The UK's network of dedicated cycling routes, quiet country lanes, and traffic-free paths offers everything from gentle family outings to serious touring adventures. Here are five routes worth putting on your radar.

1. The Camel Trail, Cornwall

Distance: ~27 km (Padstow to Bodmin) | Difficulty: Easy | Surface: Traffic-free gravel path

Following a disused railway line along the Camel Estuary, this is one of the UK's most popular traffic-free routes — and for good reason. The scenery is genuinely beautiful, the gradient is gentle throughout, and it's suitable for all ages. You can hire bikes at both Padstow and Wadebridge, making it easy to do without your own. The trail passes through Wadebridge and winds past the village of Bodmin, with plenty of stops for food and refreshments along the way.

Best for: Families, beginners, leisure riders

2. The Way of the Roses, Yorkshire to Lancashire

Distance: ~240 km (Bridlington to Morecambe) | Difficulty: Moderate–Challenging | Surface: Mixed roads and paths

This coast-to-coast route crosses the spine of England through the Yorkshire Dales and Forest of Bowland. It's typically done over three to four days and takes in stunning upland scenery. There are significant climbs involved — most notably over the Pennines — but the reward is riding through some of England's most dramatic and least-crowded landscapes. Well-signed and well-served by accommodation, this is a classic touring route.

Best for: Touring cyclists, multi-day adventurers

3. The Lon Las Cymru, Wales

Distance: ~380 km (Cardiff to Holyhead) | Difficulty: Challenging | Surface: Quiet roads and some off-road sections

National Cycle Route 8 is one of the most dramatic long-distance routes in the UK, traversing the full length of Wales. The route takes in the Brecon Beacons, the Cambrian Mountains, and Snowdonia — truly spectacular but demanding, with substantial climbing throughout. Most riders complete it over five to seven days. If you're looking for a proper cycling adventure, Lon Las Cymru delivers.

Best for: Experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge

4. The Tissington Trail, Peak District

Distance: ~21 km (Ashbourne to Parsley Hay) | Difficulty: Easy | Surface: Traffic-free tarmac and compacted gravel

Another former railway converted to a cycling route, the Tissington Trail offers a quiet, traffic-free ride through the White Peak. The route is largely flat (old railways rarely had steep gradients), making it accessible for all abilities. You can link it with the High Peak Trail at Parsley Hay to extend the ride significantly. Bike hire is available at Ashbourne.

Best for: Families, beginners, leisure riders

5. The North Coast 500 Cycling Route, Scotland

Distance: ~830 km (Inverness loop) | Difficulty: Very Challenging | Surface: Roads (some single-track)

Originally designed as a driving route, the NC500 has become increasingly popular with touring cyclists seeking remote, wild landscapes. The route circles the north of Scotland, passing through Wester Ross, Sutherland, and Caithness — some of the most remote and breathtaking scenery in Europe. Traffic can be an issue in peak summer, so consider spring or early autumn. This is a bucket-list ride for serious cyclists.

Best for: Experienced cyclists, adventure tourers

Planning Tips for Any Route

  • Download the route to a GPS device or app (Komoot and Strava are popular choices) before you set off.
  • Check the weather forecast and pack layers — British weather changes quickly.
  • Carry at least two inner tubes and a basic toolkit for any route away from civilisation.
  • Book accommodation in advance for multi-day routes, especially in summer.
  • Tell someone your route and expected return time when cycling remotely.

Whether you have a free afternoon or a whole week, there's a UK cycling route waiting for you. Get out and explore.