With the school holidays underway, you might be looking for inspiration for a summer break.
Back in April, we looked at UK walking routes for a summer staycation and this month we are ditching two legs in favour of two wheels.
You might be a biking amateur seeking out fun new ways to keep your children fit and healthy or be a keen cyclist looking to ditch the Lycra in favour of a family-friendly day out.
Either way, keep reading for your list of five great UK cycle routes to explore this summer.
1. Forest of Dean Family Cycle Trail
The Forest of Dean is 110 square kilometres (42 square miles) of ancient forest in west Gloucestershire. It has a recorded history dating back to before 1066 when areas of the forest were reserved for royal hunting.
The Family Cycle Trail is a well-posted route through the forest. Usually beginning at Cannop Cycle Centre (where bikes can be hired) the trail is a circular, nine-mile track. Taking in part of the former Severn and Wye railway lines, this flat route is accessible for all ages and experience levels making it perfect for a family day out.
Passing through the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail, past Mallards Pike Lake, and several former collieries, the route provides a fascinating mix of natural and man-made history.
Nearby you’ll find the beautiful Wye Valley area of outstanding natural beauty and the towns of Gloucester and Monmouth, to the east and west respectively.
2. Bristol to Bath
The 13-mile cycle route between the historic cities of Bristol and Bath is one of the UK’s finest.
Following a former Midland Railway route, the family-friendly – and fully tarmacked – trail is also a hit with walkers and has full disabled access.
Starting in Bristol, why not begin by taking in the history of the city with a visit to the SS Great Britain? There are also numerous museums and art galleries to explore before starting off on your ride.
Along the route, you’ll pass through the Staple Hill tunnel before arriving in Bath. This historic city and Unesco world heritage site was settled by the Romans in AD60. Visit the Roman Baths and then take in the Royal Crescent, Bath Abbey, and the weir at Pulteney Bridge.
The cycle route can of course be tackled in both directions so at the end of the day either retrace your tyre tracks or make use of the fantastic rail links between the cities.
3. Camel Trail, Cornwall
Another route following a former railway line, the 17-mile Camel Trail is a great way to get out and explore during a trip to England’s beautiful southwest.
Running between Padstow and Bodmin Moor along the route of the South West Railway line, the trail runs through a site of special scientific interest and a special area of conservation making it great for wildlife and nature lovers. Keep an eye out for kingfishers and marsh orchids.
The popular holiday destination of Padstow has plenty to explore and a raft of wonderful places to eat and drink. TV chef Rick Stein owns numerous cafes, restaurants and shops in the town and there are plenty of pubs and restaurants besides. At the harbour, you can take to the water with boat trips and sea safaris.
At the other end of the trail, you’ll find Bodmin Jail and museum, before ending at the Snail’s Pace café.
While the route largely follows the old railway line, one section – through the town of Wadebridge – does require a 5-minute ride along the road. There is a cycle lane, but you might opt to walk through the town if you have younger children.
4. The Norbury Loop, Shropshire
Skirting the Shropshire Hills area of outstanding natural beauty, the Norbury Loop comes with a recommendation from Cycling UK. The 16 miles of varying terrain are perfect for those new to cycling.
Despite being on the edge of the Shropshire Hills the route is only gently undulating and avoids busy roads. You will, though, encounter some “off-road” sections, so expect the occasional muddy puddle, gravel, and potholes.
You’ll find plenty to see and do locally too. From the 13th century Stokesay Castle to the more recent history of the Land of Lost Content Museum.
You might also opt to explore the Long Mynd. This bracken and grassland heath is popular among walkers and has been home to the Midland Gliding Club since 1934. The plateau runs for 7 miles along the spine of the Shropshire Hills, reaching over 500 metres at its highest point and offering breathtaking views across Shropshire.
5. Spen Valley Greenway, Yorkshire
At 11 kilometres (7 miles) this short route is perfect for young cyclists, while the beautiful Yorkshire countryside makes it great for grown-ups too. With moorland views and an art trail to explore, this largely traffic-free route has it all.
Artworks include: We All Walk the Same Way by Sally Matthews; Rotate by Trudi Entwistle; and Spring Along the Greenway by Pauline Monkcom.
You’ll find a gentle climb between Dewsbury and Oakenshaw, while the rest is level asphalt.
Between nearby Huddersfield and Wakefield, you’ll find the National Coal Mining Museum for England.
