From rugged coastal trails to peaceful countryside paths, the UK is packed with stunning cycling routes that cater to every kind of rider.
Whether you’re after a scenic weekend ride or a full-on endurance challenge, there’s a route out there for you. With cycling booming in popularity, now’s the perfect time to explore some of the most breathtaking places on two wheels. Here are some of the best cycle routes in the Britain that are worth adding to your list. If you’re passionate about cycling, dig a bit deeper — there are plenty more routes out there you’ll fall in love with.
1. Camel Trail, Cornwall
One of the most popular traffic-free cycle routes in the UK, the Camel Trail stretches for 18 miles along a former railway line, offering stunning views of the Cornish countryside. The route runs from Padstow to Bodmin, passing through Wadebridge along the way. It’s perfect for families, beginners, or anyone who just wants to soak in the coastal scenery without too much effort. Plus, with plenty of pubs and cafes along the way, you won’t be short of places to stop for a Cornish pasty or a cream tea.
2. The Tarka Trail, Devon
Following the path of the fictional otter in Tarka the Otter, this 32-mile route takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in North Devon. Expect estuaries, rolling countryside, and charming market towns along the way. With a mostly flat, traffic-free path, it’s ideal for a relaxed day of cycling. Start in Braunton and follow the route down to Meeth, passing through Barnstaple, Bideford, and Instow along the way.
3. The Hebridean Way, Scotland
If you’re looking for a cycling adventure like no other, the Hebridean Way is a 185-mile journey across ten stunning Scottish islands. You’ll ride along dramatic coastlines, white sandy beaches, and remote landscapes, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife. It’s not for the faint-hearted, though — the route can be tough, and the weather unpredictable—but the views are more than worth it. Expect ferries, open roads, and a sense of absolute freedom as you cycle through the Outer Hebrides.
4. The Lakeland Loop, Lake District
One of the most scenic but challenging routes in England, the Lakeland Loop is a 40-mile ride through the heart of the Lake District. You’ll cycle past iconic spots like Coniston Water, Wrynose Pass, and the picturesque village of Hawkshead. The climbs are brutal, especially over Hardknott Pass (which boasts some of the steepest gradients in the UK), but the rewards — breathtaking views and thrilling descents — make it an unforgettable ride.
5. The Strawberry Line, Somerset
A gentle, family-friendly route, the Strawberry Line is an easy-going 10-mile ride through the Somerset countryside. It follows an old railway path, connecting Yatton with Cheddar, offering a mix of woodlands, orchards, and peaceful open fields. With tunnels, bridges, and plenty of picnic spots along the way, it’s the perfect leisurely cycle for those who prefer a relaxed pace. Plus, finishing in Cheddar means you can reward yourself with some of the town’s famous cheese.
6. The C2C (Coast to Coast), Northern England
One of the UK’s most famous long-distance cycling challenges, the C2C runs 136 miles from Whitehaven or Workington on the west coast to Tynemouth or Sunderland on the east. It’s a rite of passage for many cyclists, offering a mix of tough climbs, rolling hills, and rewarding descents. Passing through the Lake District, the Pennines, and County Durham, this route is a serious test of endurance, but the stunning landscapes make every mile worthwhile.
7. The New Forest Loop, Hampshire
For a ride packed with beautiful woodland, open heathland, and wildlife, the New Forest Loop is a must. The area has over 100 miles of signposted cycle routes, but one of the best loops is the 30-mile route starting from Brockenhurst. You’ll likely spot ponies, deer, and even wild pigs roaming freely as you ride. With quiet lanes, gentle hills, and plenty of charming villages, it’s one of the most relaxing cycling routes in the country.
8. The Tweed Valley Trails, Scotland
If you’re into mountain biking rather than road cycling, the Tweed Valley in the Scottish Borders is a must-visit. The area is home to world-class trails, including those at Glentress and Innerleithen, offering everything from beginner-friendly routes to technical descents. With stunning forests, flowing singletracks, and epic downhill sections, this is one of the best places in the UK to put your off-road skills to the test.
9. The Tissington Trail, Peak District
This traffic-free cycle route is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Peak District. The Tissington Trail is a 13-mile ride along a former railway line, stretching from Ashbourne to Parsley Hay. It’s mostly flat, making it ideal for families and casual riders, and the stunning views over Dovedale and the surrounding hills make it a perfect escape from city life.
10. The Gower Peninsula Loop, Wales
Wales is home to some of the UK’s most dramatic landscapes, and the Gower Peninsula Loop is one of the most scenic coastal rides you can do. This 45-mile circular route takes you past stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and rolling countryside. Starting and ending in Swansea, you’ll ride past Rhossili Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, before looping back through the lush Gower countryside. It’s the perfect mix of challenging climbs and spectacular scenery.
11. The South Downs Way, Southern England
If you’re up for a challenge, the South Downs Way is a legendary off-road cycling route stretching 100 miles from Winchester to Eastbourne. It follows the ridge of the South Downs, offering panoramic views of the rolling hills and the sea. It’s a tough ride with plenty of climbs, but the reward is stunning scenery and the feeling of pure freedom as you ride through one of the most beautiful parts of the UK.
12. The Hadrian’s Cycleway, Northern England
Following the route of Hadrian’s Wall, this 174-mile journey takes you from the Irish Sea to the North Sea, passing through some of England’s most historic landscapes. You’ll cycle through ancient Roman forts, rolling countryside, and coastal paths, with plenty of opportunities to stop and explore along the way. It’s a stunning blend of history and natural beauty, making it one of the UK’s most unique long-distance rides.
