The Best Destinations for Cycling Holidays in the UK 

With its diverse landscapes, from the rugged hills of the Scottish Highlands and the scenic coastlines of Wales to the picturesque countryside of England, the UK boasts some of the world’s most stunning cycling routes. The country had an extensive network of cycle paths and trails, including renowned routes like the South Downs Way. As you cycle along these routes, you can come across picturesque villages, historic sites, and varied terrain. Moreover, the UK has a decent cycling infrastructure, which makes leisurely rides more enjoyable.

Here are the best destinations for cycling holidays in the UK.

The Lake District

Most cyclists will head straight into the picturesque Lake District region while cycling in the UK. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, tranquil lakes, and rugged mountains, it’s one of the country’s top destinations for cycling breaks. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Lake District boasts an array of cycling trails to cater to different cyclists, making it an ideal place for casual and seasoned cyclists.

The Lake District’s most famous cycling route is the C2C (Sea to Sea) Cycle Route,” which spans 140 miles from the Irish Sea at Whitehaven to the North Sea at Sunderland. This trail takes cyclists through the heart of the Lake District, offering stunning views of the lakes and lush forests. The segment between Keswick and Penrith is particularly scenic, with gentle climbs and picturesque landscapes.

Those seeking a more leisurely ride can cycle along the “Lakes & Dales Loop”. This 196-mile circular route offers a mix of quiet country lanes and dedicated cycle paths, passing through charming villages, rolling hills, and serene lakes. Highlights include the stretches around Ullswater and Coniston Water, which provide spectacular lake views.

The “Grizedale Forest” trails are a favorite among mountain biking enthusiasts. With over 160 miles of forest tracks, including the challenging “North Face Trail,” cyclists can enjoy exhilarating rides through dense woodlands with occasional glimpses of the surrounding mountains and lakes.

Read more: The Best Family-Friendly Destinations for Biking Holidays in Europe

The Scottish Highlands 

With its dramatic landscapes, rugged mountains, and pristine lochs, the Scottish Highlands is a premier destination for cycling enthusiasts seeking adventure and natural beauty in the UK. This region offers an array of cycling trails that cater to various skill levels, making it ideal for solo riders and groups of cyclists.

Those cycling in groups will find plenty of places to stay, as there is a great choice of group accommodations here, perfect for those planning a group cycling trip. Popular recommendations include large holiday homes, bunkhouses, and hostels. These accommodations provide the ideal base for exploring the region, offering comfort and convenience after riding through some of the UK’s most stunning landscapes.

One of the most iconic routes is the “Great Glen Way,” which stretches 79 miles from Fort William to Inverness. This trail follows the Caledonian Canal and the shores of Loch Ness, featuring breathtaking views of the Highlands’ most famous landscapes. The route features a mix of off-road paths and quiet roads, suitable for moderate to experienced cyclists.

Those looking for a more challenging ride can conquer the famous North Coast 500. It’s a 516-mile loop starting and ending in Inverness. This epic route takes cyclists along Scotland’s stunning northern coastline, through remote villages, and past dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches. It’s a must for those seeking an exhilarating long-distance adventure.

Pembrokeshire

With its diverse blend of coastal scenery, historic sites, and rolling countryside, Pembrokeshire is another fantastic destination for a cycling break in the UK. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, the only coastal national park in the UK, is a stunning place to explore on a bike, with various routes suitable to different cyclists.

An incredibly scenic trail is the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. While primarily a walking path, it has several sections suitable for cycling. The route between St. David’s and Fishguard offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and dramatic cliffs. Enjoy the fresh sea air and the chance to spot local wildlife, including seabirds and seals.

If you prefer to explore inland, cycle along the Brunel Trail. It’s a 14-mile route from Haverfordwest to Neyland, following the Old Great Western Railway. The trail is relatively flat, making it accessible for families and leisurely bike rides. The highlight of your journey is seeing the panoramic views of the Western Cleddau River and the surrounding countryside.

The Cotswolds 

Known for its quintessentially English charm, the Cotswolds is a fun place to explore on a bike. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, your cycling adventure will take you to scenic countryside, historic landmarks, and charming towns.

One of the most popular cycling routes is the “Cotswold Line Cycle Route,” which runs parallel to the Cotswold Line railway, making it convenient for cyclists looking to combine their cycling adventures with rail travel. This trail takes you through beautiful villages like Moreton-in-Marsh, Chipping Campden, and Broadway, providing stunning views of the Cotswold Hills and classic stone cottages.

With its well-connected rail services, the Cotswolds is an excellent place for a cycling trip and perfect for those wanting to combine it with exciting rail breaks. The combination of beautiful cycling routes and the convenience of rail travel means you can easily hop on and off to explore different parts of the region without worrying about long-distance cycling fatigue, saving you much-needed time and energy.

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Cornwall

Renowned for its dramatic coastline, Cornwall is perfect for cyclists looking for adventure along the coast. Aside from the breathtaking coastal views, the region has well-maintained trails, which make it an even more delightful place to explore on two wheels. 

The largely flat 18-mile Camel Trail is one of Cornwall’s most popular cycling routes, following the disused railway line from Padstow to Bodmin. It boasts stunning views of the Camel Estuary, passing through picturesque English tows like Wadebridge.

For the more experienced cyclists looking for some thrills, cycle along the Mineral Tramways Coast to Coast, featuring a fascinating 11-mile route from Portreath on the north coast to Devoran on the south coast. The trail traverses mining areas with beautiful scenery and historic charm.