7 of the Best Family Cycling Holidays in the UK

Ernest Hemingway argued that the best way to explore a country is by riding a bicycle. And of all cycling destinations on the planet, the UK has to be one of the greatest.

7 of the Best Family Cycling Holidays in the UK – Those who chose to explore Britain by bike can expect to experience a plethora of different sights, scents, and sounds. There’s something for everyone – from serious hill climbs to more laidback itineraries.

If you’re looking for family cycle trails, you’ll be pleased to know that there are dozens of them in the UK. Here are the best ones:

1.  The Strawberry Line, Somerset

A rural county of rolling hills, Somerset is one of England’s loveliest counties. Those who decide to explore it will find it very diverse – there’s a beautiful coastline, moors, rivers, caves, and even Roman ruins.

When it comes to cycling holidays, the Strawberry Line stands out as the best pick. Starting in Yatton and ending in Cheddar, this 10-mile long trail offers unforgettable sights.

Cycling Holidays

You and your family will be cycling through wooded valleys, apple orchards, and wildlife-rich wetlands. One of the best pitstops is the Lion Rock Tea Rooms, known for their excellent cream tea.

2.  Aviemore, Cairngorms

The Scottish Highlands are one of the UK’s most mystical and romantic regions. With deep blue lochs and rugged mountains, it’s a place for the lovers of legends.

Situated in the heart of the Highlands, the town of Aviemore offers some of the best cycling trails for the more adventurous families.

One of the most interesting ones is the Aviemore – Loch Garten route. While mostly flat and undulating, this trail offers a couple of short, sharp climbs. The beautiful scenery you’ll encounter on the way will make this a holiday your family will always remember.

3.  East London Canals

Decades ago, a huge network of canals played a crucial role in the transport system of the UK’s capital city. Nowadays, this snaking labyrinth of waterways caters to some very different purposes.

The best way to explore East London canals is by bike. An eclectic mix of pop-up cafes, chilled-out musicians, and even wildlife makes for an unforgettable holiday.

Make sure to bring your rain jackets, though – London is notorious for its unpredictable weather.

4.   Flitch Way, Essex

If you’re from London and looking for a family cycling holiday outside the city, consider the Flitch Way. Bishop’s Stortford, where the trail starts, is only 30 miles away from central London.

The Flitch Way is a relatively flat route that follows a railway abandoned some 40 years ago. On this 15-mile long trail, you’ll be able to see abandoned stations, wetlands, woods, and fields dotted with shire horses.

5.  Sutton Park, Birmingham

One of England’s prettiest urban parks is situated in Birmingham, and it’s called Sutton Park. Covering more than 2,400 acres, it is a mix of lakes, woodlands, marshes, wetlands, and golf courses.

Sutton Park is on two National Cycle routes and as such a fantastic option for a family cycling holiday. The bicycle routes will take you past pools, over bridges, and next to beautiful grasslands and forests.

With the park being surrounded by the city of Birmingham, snacks and drinks are always at reach.

6.  The Camel Trail, Cornwall

Noted for its stunning coastal scenery, Cornwall is worth paying a visit to. When it comes to family cycling holidays, one of Cornwall’s best offerings is the Camel Trail.

Cycling Holidays

As the name suggests, this cycling route follows the estuary of the Camel River. Starting at Wadebridge and ending at Padstow, it is 5.5 miles long and encompasses mostly flat terrain.

With picturesque Cornish countryside to your right and amazing harbor views to your left, you’ll want the route to go on forever. Once you reach Padstow, you can either ride back to Wadebridge or carry on to Wenfordbridge or Bodmin.

7.  The Lagan Towpath, Northern Ireland

Connecting Belfast and Lisburn, the Lagan Towpath is one of the best family cycling routes in Northern Ireland. It is traffic-free and 11 miles long – a perfect choice for a family day out.

The route starts at Shaw’s Bridge, constructed more than 300 years ago. It takes the cyclists along the river through a variety of woodlands, wetlands, and riverside meadows.

You’ll be able to explore a restored canal barge and eat in a former lock keeper’s cottage. What’s more, bikes can be rented for free. They’re provided by the cycling charity Sustrans, which regularly organizes family cycles.

The route ends at Lisburn, where you can visit the famous Linen Center and Ulster Aviation Society Museum.

Covering places of historical interest and the best of the beautiful countryside, the UK’s cycling routes are something special. The ones we listed above can provide you and your family with unforgettable cycling holidays – whatever you’re looking for, they can deliver.

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