Our Guide to the Best Cycling Holidays in the UK
From mountain landscapes to ancient forests, there are so many corners of the UK that are best explored on two wheels! Whether you're planning a weekend trip with friends or an active family break, a cycling holiday is a great way to explore a new region, get out in the fresh air, and enjoy the journey just as much as the destination. Even better? You don't need to be a seasoned cyclist to set off on a biking trip! With trails for challenge-seekers and leisurely peddlers alike, here are our top destinations for self-guided cycling holidays in the UK – whatever your skill level.
Looking for a family-friendly break? Try a cycling holiday in Devon!
With two national parks, incredible coastlines and a famously good cream tea, it's no wonder Devon is one of the UK's most popular holiday destinations. Plenty of traffic-free cycle paths make this the ideal area for the whole family to explore on two wheels. The Tamar Valley has over 15 miles of bike trails to discover at a leisurely pace, with our favourite route for families being the Mineral Railway trail. This cycleway offers relaxed biking on a wide track, passing through beautiful woodland and old mining trails. You can even stop for a break and find out all about the county’s mining heritage at the Old Mine Office. Another great option is The Tarka Trail, a series of paths that weave through unspoiled countryside and feature the longest traffic-free cycle route in the whole of the UK. There’s also the Grand Western Canal Cycle route, a picturesque canal-side pathway along an 11-mile flat towpath.
For an adventure-filled cycling holiday in Wales, take on Eryri (Snowdonia)
For challenging climbs and dramatic mountain vistas, you can’t beat cycling in Eryri National Park (Snowdonia)! There are plenty of routes for trail biking and road cycling alike, and those tough up-hill peddles are well rewarded by stunning scenery at every turn. For a multi-day ride, the Traws Eryri (Trans Snowdonia) is a 124-mile multi-terrain trail that links Machynlleth and Conwy. Made for mountain bikes, this route makes use of bridleways, ancient drover’s tracks and some quieter roads to cross the national park from south to north. And if you’re a seasoned cyclist looking for a real challenge? Try tackling some of Britain’s most difficult climbs – including the Bwylch y Groes and Llanberis Pass. After all that peddling, have a well-earned meal and rest up at one of the many excellent accommodation options in the area!
For a cycling trip next to the sea, head to the Isle of Wight
With over 200 miles of cycle tracks winding through beautiful countryside, it’s no surprise that the Isle of Wight makes for one of the best UK cycle holidays. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a leisurely peddler, there’s something for everyone on this gem of an island! The popular Round the Island cycle route covers 65 miles and offers riders a delightful mix of coastal beauty, charming villages, and rolling countryside. While the full loop presents a challenging ride with some hilly terrain, the circuit can easily be divided into more manageable sections for less seasoned cyclists. Another scenic route is the Red Squirrel trail, which will take you through 32 miles of scenic Isle of Wight countryside. Take in woodland, farmland, estuaries and a stretch of the island’s famous coastline as you peddle along this mainly off-road track.
For a multi-day UK cycle holiday, set off for the Peak District
If you’re looking for cycling with quintessential British charm, it doesn’t get much better than the Peak District National Park! There are 1500 square kilometres of lush rolling hills, quaint stone villages and quiet country lanes here, just waiting to be explored via a huge variety of trails. The Peak District is an ideal place to take on an epic multi-day biking challenge. Enjoy the journey just as much as the destination on long-distance bike rides such as the Pennine Cycleway and Tour de Peak District. Just be prepared for sore legs – as the name ‘Peak’ suggests, you’re in for plenty of climbs and hilly terrain! When it’s time to rest weary limbs, you’ll be spoilt for choice with cosy accommodation options in the area. And if you’re feeling super adventurous? You can pitch up among the peaks at one of the region’s many campsites!
Our top tips for planning your big bike tour
Before you get peddling, it's time to plan ahead and map out your routes. If you're tackling longer multi-day rides, you'll need to factor in accommodation to break up the journey into manageable sections. To work out the miles you'll cover each day, be sure to account for the skill level and pace of everyone in your group – and remember to include rest and refuel stops in your itinerary!
When it comes to equipment, you'll be thankful for quality bikes. You can choose to transport your own bicycles, or plan to rent them once you arrive in the area. Research the type of terrain you'll be covering to ensure you've got the best equipment to tackle it comfortably and safely. And of course, whether you're road cycling or hitting the trails, don't forget those all-important helmets! As well as all the usual holiday essentials, you'll need a few extras in your backpack for a cycling trip. Ensure you have a handy bike pump, quality cycling clothing and gloves and plenty of waterproofs to stay dry and comfortable in ever-changing British weather.
Looking to combine cycling with other adventures? Check out our guide to the best places to visit in England to plan your perfect trip.