Dig your bike out of the shed and head for the open road on a British cycling adventure. From demanding climbs to sedate converted railway line routes, the team from Epic Road Rides pick out five of the best destinations for cycling in the United Kingdom.
Outer Hebrides, Scotland
The magical Western Isles of Scotland are home to the 185-mile Hebridean Cycle Route, an iconic cycling journey taking in 10 islands, including Barra, North Uist, Harris and Lewis. The manageable gradients and fact you can break the route up into whatever chunks you like, makes it ideally suited for a range of cyclists. Abundant wildlife, fun ferry crossings, ancient stone circles, countless white beaches and turquoise waters await those willing to brave the (sometimes ferocious) Scottish wind. This is UK cycling at its wildest and most beautiful.
Lake District, England
Situated in the northwest of England, the rugged mountains of England’s most popular National Park provide a scenic backdrop for cyclists looking to take on some of the UK’s best loved hill climbs. Honister, Hardknott and Wrynose Passes are all big leg burners featuring some challenging gradients, perfect for road cyclists looking to really push their limits. For the ultimate Lake District cycling test, the notorious Fred Whitton challenge combines all the above and more on a 112-mile circuit around the National Park. Don’t like the sound of all that climbing? There are also plenty of more leisurely routes available around the many beautiful lakes in the region.
Yorkshire Dales, England
After hosting the Tour de France Grand Départ in 2014, the Yorkshire Dales’ challenging climbs became world famous. The region’s reputation as a leading road cycling destination was further cemented in 2019 by the UCI World Road Race Championships. Known for its remote moorlands, craggy limestone cliffs and picture postcard views, it’s a breathtakingly beautiful part of the UK. With tough gradients and unforgiving weather conditions to tackle, the road cycling here can also be formidable. Big name climbs include Buttertubs Pass and Fleet Moss.
Isle of Wight, England
The Isle of Wight is a self-proclaimed “cycling island” that’s home to more than 200 miles of cycling routes across varied terrain, with many taking in beautiful coastal views. Cyclists can choose from shorter family-friendly options to a lengthier scenic loop of the island, that would suit more experienced riders looking for a big day out on the bike. This popular cycling destination also hosts the annual Isle of Wight Cycling Festival, which brings together cyclists to complete either a 55km or 100km route.
Cornwall, England
Planning a holiday to Cornwall with the family? Did you know Cornwall also has one of the best traffic free bike trails in the UK? The Camel Trail is a flat, 18-mile route on a former old railway line, connecting the popular coastal town of Padstow to Wadebridge, Bodmin and on to Wendfordbridge. This beautiful cycle route is a great option for kids of all ages and abilities. It’s also the perfect choice for those new to cycling too, looking for a fun way to explore the beautiful Cornish countryside, with sections of the route surrounded by woodland and views of the Camel Estuary.
About Epic Road Rides
Epic Road Rides is the independent travel resource for those wanting to explore the world by bike. Founder Clare Dewey and the team are all based in the UK and have spent years discovering the very best cycling routes. On the website you’ll find out about more than 80 destinations and free guides that come with all the information you need to undertake a cycling holiday, including suggested itineraries, GPS routes, where to stay and essential tips.
See more at epicroadrides.com
Top image: Cycling the Hebridean Way (Copyright: Epic Road Rides)