The United Kingdom offers some of the world's most spectacular cycling routes, from dramatic coastal paths to serene countryside trails and challenging mountain passes. Whether you're planning a day trip or a multi-day adventure, these carefully selected routes showcase the best of British landscapes while providing unforgettable cycling experiences.

At Sottiricon, we've compiled this list based on feedback from thousands of our customers and our own extensive route testing. Each route is accessible with our rental bikes, and we provide detailed maps and safety guidance for all these destinations.

1. The Camel Trail, Cornwall

Distance: 18 miles (29 km) one way
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Families, beginners

The Camel Trail is arguably Britain's most famous cycle path, following a disused railway line through some of Cornwall's most beautiful countryside. Starting from Padstow, the trail winds through wooded valleys, alongside the River Camel, and through the historic town of Wadebridge before reaching Bodmin.

The route is completely traffic-free and mostly flat, making it perfect for families with children. Along the way, you'll pass through diverse landscapes including tidal creeks, ancient woodlands, and rolling farmland. The trail also connects to several pubs and cafes, perfect for refreshment stops.

Highlights:

  • Rick Stein's restaurants in Padstow
  • Beautiful estuary views near Wadebridge
  • Historic Bodmin town center
  • Wildlife spotting opportunities

2. The Tarka Trail, North Devon

Distance: 32 miles (51 km) circular
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best for: Nature lovers, literary enthusiasts

Named after Henry Williamson's famous novel "Tarka the Otter," this route combines traffic-free sections with quiet country lanes, following the journey of the fictional otter through North Devon's stunning landscape.

The trail takes you through ancient woodlands, alongside rivers, and across traditional Devon farmland. The route can be completed in sections, with the Barnstaple to Meeth section being entirely traffic-free and suitable for all abilities.

Key Sections:

  • Barnstaple to Bideford (traffic-free, 6 miles)
  • Great Torrington to Meeth (traffic-free, 11 miles)
  • Circular sections through Exmoor countryside

3. Hadrian's Wall Path, Northumberland

Distance: 84 miles (135 km) total, various sections available
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Best for: History enthusiasts, adventure seekers

Follow the route of ancient Roman soldiers along England's most significant historical monument. While the full wall path is designed for walking, many sections are perfect for cycling, offering incredible views of the Northumberland countryside and fascinating Roman ruins.

The cycling-friendly sections include the central part from Chollerford to Birdoswald, which offers the best-preserved sections of the wall along with stunning scenery. This route requires good fitness levels due to rolling hills and varied terrain.

Must-see stops:

  • Housesteads Roman Fort
  • Vindolanda archaeological site
  • Sycamore Gap (famous lone tree)
  • Birdoswald Roman Fort

4. The Great Glen Way, Scotland

Distance: 79 miles (127 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best for: Scenic views, multi-day adventures

This spectacular route runs from Fort William to Inverness, following the natural fault line that cuts across the Scottish Highlands. The path takes you alongside famous lochs including Loch Lochy, Loch Oich, and the legendary Loch Ness.

While challenging in parts, the Great Glen Way offers some of the most breathtaking mountain and loch scenery in Scotland. The route includes a mix of forest tracks, quiet roads, and purpose-built cycle paths.

Highlights include:

  • Views of Ben Nevis from Fort William
  • Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle
  • Traditional Highland villages
  • Caledonian Canal locks

5. The Downs Link, Surrey and West Sussex

Distance: 37 miles (60 km)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best for: Countryside cycling, pub stops

Connecting the North Downs Way with the South Downs Way, this route follows disused railway lines through some of southern England's most beautiful countryside. The path runs from Guildford in Surrey to Shoreham-by-Sea in West Sussex.

The route is well-maintained and mostly flat, following the old railway gradient. You'll pass through charming villages, alongside the River Arun, and through areas of outstanding natural beauty.

Notable features:

  • Historic market towns of Guildford and Horsham
  • Beautiful River Arun valley
  • Traditional English countryside villages
  • Excellent pub stops throughout

6. The Manifold Trail, Peak District

Distance: 8 miles (13 km) one way
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Families, Peak District exploration

This delightful traffic-free trail follows the route of the former Leek and Manifold Valley Light Railway through one of the Peak District's most scenic valleys. The path runs from Waterhouses to Hulme End, following the beautiful River Manifold.

The trail is perfect for families and offers stunning limestone scenery, traditional Staffordshire villages, and interesting railway heritage. The surface is well-maintained crushed limestone, suitable for all types of bikes.

Attractions along the route:

  • Thor's Cave (dramatic limestone cave)
  • Wetton village and tea rooms
  • River Manifold walking opportunities
  • Traditional Staffordshire pubs

7. The Celtic Trail, Wales

Distance: 220 miles (354 km) total, various sections
Difficulty: Easy to Challenging
Best for: Coastal scenery, Welsh culture

The Celtic Trail is Wales' premier cycling route, running from Chepstow in the south to Holyhead in the north. The route can be tackled in sections, with the coastal portions offering particularly spectacular scenery.

The Millennium Coastal Path section from Llanelli to Pembrey is especially popular, offering 22 miles of traffic-free coastal cycling with stunning views across Carmarthen Bay. This section is perfect for a day trip and suitable for all abilities.

Recommended sections:

  • Millennium Coastal Path (22 miles, easy)
  • Fishguard to St. Davids (35 miles, moderate)
  • Anglesey coastal section (67 miles, moderate)

8. The High Peak Trail, Derbyshire

Distance: 17 miles (27 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best for: Hill climbing, industrial heritage

Following the route of the former Cromford and High Peak Railway, this trail offers a unique cycling experience through the heart of the Peak District. The route includes several impressive viaducts and stunning views across the Derbyshire countryside.

While more challenging than typical railway paths due to the Peak District's hilly terrain, the High Peak Trail rewards cyclists with spectacular panoramic views and fascinating industrial heritage sites.

Key features:

  • High Peak Junction with heritage railway
  • Cromford Canal connections
  • Multiple limestone quarry sites
  • Views across the White Peak landscape

9. The Norfolk Coast Cycleway

Distance: 84 miles (135 km)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best for: Birdwatching, seaside towns

This circular route showcases the best of Norfolk's stunning coastline, from the seaside resort of Cromer to the nature reserves of the Broads. The route includes a mix of quiet lanes, cycle paths, and short sections of busier roads.

The Norfolk coastline is famous for its wide sandy beaches, traditional seaside towns, and exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. The relatively flat terrain makes this route accessible to most cyclists.

Highlights:

  • Cromer pier and famous crab
  • Wells-next-the-Sea beach huts
  • Blakeney Point seal colonies
  • RSPB nature reserves

10. The London to Brighton Cycle Route

Distance: 54 miles (87 km)
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Best for: Challenge cycling, iconic British route

Perhaps Britain's most famous cycle route, the London to Brighton ride has been a rite of passage for UK cyclists for decades. The route takes you from the heart of London through the Surrey Hills and down to the English Channel at Brighton.

While challenging, particularly the climbs through the Surrey Hills including the infamous Ditchling Beacon, the sense of achievement upon reaching Brighton's seafront is unmatched. The route is well-signposted and supported by numerous cafes and bike shops.

Key challenges and rewards:

  • Navigate through South London suburbs
  • Beautiful Surrey Hills countryside
  • Ditchling Beacon climb (challenging but manageable)
  • Triumphant arrival at Brighton seafront

Planning Your Route Adventure

Choosing the Right Bike

Different routes require different types of bikes:

  • Traffic-free trails: Hybrid or city bikes are perfect
  • Hilly terrain: Consider an electric bike for easier climbing
  • Long distances: Touring bikes with comfortable seating
  • Rough surfaces: Mountain bikes for better grip and comfort

Essential Equipment

For any of these routes, ensure you have:

  • Properly fitted helmet
  • Basic repair kit and spare inner tube
  • Water and snacks
  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Map or GPS device
  • First aid kit

Sottiricon Support

Sottiricon offers bikes and support for all these routes:

  • Bike rental at strategic locations near popular routes
  • Route maps and guidance
  • Emergency support services
  • Equipment rental (helmets, repair kits, panniers)
  • Multi-day rental options for longer routes

Best Times to Ride

Timing can make or break your cycling experience:

  • Spring (March-May): Mild weather, fewer crowds, blooming countryside
  • Summer (June-August): Warmest weather but busiest periods
  • Autumn (September-November): Beautiful colors, comfortable temperatures
  • Winter (December-February): Quiet routes but check weather conditions

Each of these routes offers a unique perspective on the diverse beauty of the British Isles. From the rugged Scottish Highlands to the gentle rolling hills of the English countryside, from dramatic coastal paths to historic Roman routes, there's a perfect cycling adventure waiting for every type of rider.

Whether you're planning a challenging multi-day expedition or a relaxing family day out, these routes represent the very best of UK cycling. At Sottiricon, we're here to help you make the most of these incredible experiences with quality bikes, local knowledge, and comprehensive support.

Ready to explore? Contact us to plan your next cycling adventure on one of these magnificent routes.