• Self Catering Cycling Holidays

Top Five Cycling Holiday Destinations in England

Looking for ideas and inspiration on the best places in England to take a cycling holiday?  If so then read on for CountryCottagesOnline.Net’s hints and tips on places to enjoy taking to two wheels on holiday.

You may be a mountain biker looking for a bumpy ride or enjoy a gentle Sunday afternoon leisurely ride.  Whatever type of cycling you enjoy, you’re in good company as biking is a popular UK pastime.  It makes sense then to enjoy this pastime on holiday too.  Cycling and feeling the wind blowing through your hair can be quite a thrill and can be a great way of exploring the coast or countryside.
 

Some of the Best Locations for Cycling in England Include:

•    Bath, Somerset   

•    Coniston Water in the Lake District

•    Forest of Dean

•    Kent

•    Rutland Water

Bath; the Two Tunnels Route

If you prefer to take it easy with a flattish cycling route, this one is for you!  Starting in beautiful Bath, this city is a historical gem and not to be missed.  What better way to get a feel for this gorgeous city and the surrounding area then to take to two wheels!

Type of Cycle Trail: This route is mostly off road along a disused railway route, by a canal and along country lanes, so you can avoid cycling alongside traffic for most of the way.

Families cycling with kids may want to stick to the traffic-free parts of the route, one part of which is found west of Bath.

About the Route:  Running for 13 miles, this is a circular route which starts and finishes at the Riverside Path near Bath Spa Station.  Depending on your fitness level you may want to do part or all of the route.  As a relatively new route, the Two Tunnels is part of the wider National Cycle Network and takes in Combe Down, Britain’s longest cycling turnnel.  Part of the route takes you through two long tunnels, along a disused railway line and along the Kennet and Avon canal towpath too so makes for an interesting ride.  A popular detour is to visit Dundas Aqueduct and the pretty town of Bradford on Avon.

 

Coniston Water, the Lake District

It's not all boating and hiking in the Lake District, head to Coniston Water and you can enjoy a relaxing stroll, plus a touch of boating and cycling too if you're feeling really energetic!  Boats and bikes can be hired at Coniston Boating Centre.  Although it's no well kept secret and does attract lots of people, Coniston Water with its cafe, ample facilities and scenic setting in the Lake District has lots to offer.  

Type of Cycle Trail:  The mostly traffic-free cycling route that goes around the lake is particularly appealing for families as you can mostly forget watching out for cars here and just concentrate on taking in the scenery and enjoying the ride!  For those on a budget may be pack a picnic and enjoy it by the shore at Coniston Water.  The route is mostly flat.
 

The Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire   

Known for its lush greenery, its ancient woodlands and excellent wildlife watching opportunities, the Forest of Dean is a great UK holiday destination and can be a joy to explore by bike.

Type of Cycle Trail:  With a variety of cycling routes to offer, whether you're holidaying as a romantic couple, with friends or family, for those who want to explore on two wheels, the Forest of Dean should not disappoint.  There are trails for all levels of cyclists; from easy trails for those new to cycling and traffic-free routes ideal for families to mountain biking for adrenaline junkies.

For families, one popular route is the Family Cycle Trail, a 9 mile circular route which mostly follows disused railway lines, along surfaced paths, away from traffic.

Bring your own bikes or alternatively hire them at Cannop Cycle Centre.  

Kent; the Tudor Trail  

For those keen to explore the beauty of rural Kent on holiday, the Tudor Trail could be ideal.  Running from Tonbridge Castle to Penshurst Place, you can take in a mix of vistas on route, from woodlands to riverside scenery, take in the sights and sounds of the lush Kent countryside on this scenic 12 mile ride.   

Type of Cycle Trail:  This cycle route is mostly off road, but you may encounter some farm traffic so do take care and watch out for pot holes and rugged terrain on the way.  This route may be best suited to those with mountain bikes or hybrid bikes.   If you’re seriously in to biking you may want to do the whole route, whereas if you prefer a more leisurely cycle you may just want to do just part of the trail and combine it with a trip to a historic site or lunch out.

Marvel at Kent’s History

Along this trail you’ll pass by some of Kent’s best historic sites including Tonbridge Castle which dates back to the 13th century, wonderful Hever Castle where Anne Boleyn lived, Chiddington Castle and Penshurst Place.  
It’s recommend that you research the route thoroughly before setting off and check out Google maps for any pubs on the way where you can stop off and enjoy a refreshing drink or lunch.

Find out more about the Tudor Trail on Explore Kent’s website.
 

Rutland Water, Rutland.    

A hot spot for traffic-free cycling, Rutland Water will appeal to families and those who prefer to cycle away from traffic.

Take to two wheels and enjoy exploring this circular route and taking in some fine waterside scenery by Rutland Water, one of the UK’s largest reservoirs.  Covering a total of 23 miles, most people will want to choose to do a section of the route.  One shorter section takes you to the Hambleton Peninsula that juts out in to the lake where you can enjoy some fabulous views.  Sights on route include a man-made beach and there are plenty of picnic areas where you can stop off and take a break or two on the way too.

Type of Cycle Trail:  This is a circular route which mostly takes you along traffic-free paths and is largely flat.  It covers some quiet roads too.

About the Route: Rutland Water attracts wildlife watchers and those who love to enjoy the great outdoors and want the change to enjoy some easy waterside cycling.  Enjoy taking in pretty waterside scenery as you bike around Rutland Water.  Pretty sights you can take in along this route if you choose include the historic market town of Oakham which is home to a Norman Castle and a choice of eateries and shops and Barnsdale Gardens.

When cycling remember to always take your mobile phone and a bottle of water with you so you can stay refreshed and hydrated whilst enjoying this activity.