The UK is filled with cycle enthusiasts thanks to its bright emerald landscape which are a treasured playground for cyclists. A cycling holiday in the UK is arguably the best way to enjoy its stunning countryside. Weaved with well-maintained cycle paths, immerse yourself in Britain’s rural charm. Some of the best cycle routes in the UK reside in the south of Great Britain. From the sparkling Sussex coast to the golden Cotswolds villages, cycling here showcases the country’s dramatic coastline and rolling fields of green as well as many chocolate-box towns with traditional English pubs and cafes. For some of the best cycling routes in the UK, Sussex and the Cotswolds are a must.
Both regions are full of traditional British culture and exciting cycling adventures. In Sussex, listen to the choir of birds against the lapping of waves as you pedal along a shining promenade. Whilst in the Cotswolds you can explore a sea of green hills spotted with honey-coloured towns and ancient stone castles. Whether you’re looking for a staycation or are a first-timer in the UK, our tours in these spectacular regions allow for the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration of everything British. For some inspiration, we’ve provided a list of the best cycling routes in the UK. Read this blog to get a taste of this post-card pretty holiday destination loved by so many.
Sunny Sussex
Thoughts of Britain don’t usually involve a beach; however, the bright Sussex coastline is a sight to behold. Beautiful stretches of pebbled beaches, striking white cliffs and isolated seaside castles tumble down from the inner green land of wooded lanes and rolling meadows.
The South Downs National Park engulfs England’s southern landscape with its winding chalk grassland, incredible wildlife and picturesque village. This natural landscape includes the famous Seven Sisters which have become synonymous with seaside Britain and are just as striking in person as in photos. These stunning white chalk cliffs can be seen from miles around, a visual reminder of the chalk bedrock that flows across southern England. This ancient sediment has proven essential for Britain’s booming wine industry in producing some of the most delicious sparkling wine. Try it for yourself as you embark on some of the best cycling routes in the UK.
Take yourself to the seaside for a short break combining some great leisure cycling routes with some of the best accommodation, restaurants, and spa facilities in Sussex.
Ockenden Manor to Bailiffscourt
This ride takes you along the coastline via country lanes, ancient castles, riverside cycle paths and beachfront promenades. The route is flat and the stop-offs are delicious! You’ll start from the town of Cuckfield pedalling through tree-lined country lanes to reach the small village of Henfield, a cluster of independent shops and hearty pubs. You’ll pass Bolney Wine Estate, the perfect place for a midday tipple before continuing onto the coast. From Henfield, you’ll pick up the Downs Link, an old railway line converted into a cycle path. Weave through the countryside en route to the seaside. Keep an eye out for the ancient ruins of Bramber Castle, a great spot for a picnic. If you’re eager for that cold beachside ice cream, continue until you reach the town of Shoreham where your seaside adventure begins.
Head west along the beachfront path through the charming Victorian seaside town of Worthing. After a stretch of seaside pedalling, you’ll reach the beautiful hotel of Bailiffscourt. This is the perfect time to savour a portion of fish and chips or sit down to an afternoon tea.
Enjoy the best of Sussex and Sussex wine with this carefully created tour: five nights and three vineyards with plenty of time in between to relax.
Ockenden Manor Round Trip
Start by pedalling the bike paths of Haywards Heath which lead to the delightful village of Linfield. Take a stroll around the pond or pop to the shop for picnic supplies before heading into the countryside. A ride down the uniquely named ‘Slugwash Lane’ will lead you past the prestigious Ridgeview Wine Estate. Here you can enjoy some of Sussex’s best, most delectable wines. After a glass or two, cycle to Ditchling, the ideal spot to stretch your legs or enjoy a ‘proper’ pub lunch at The Bull Pub. On the next stretch of cycling along Underhill Lane, the South Downs will stand as a spectacular backdrop. You’ll pass a vineyard or two before you reach the Sheffield Park and Garden. Stroll the grounds, enjoy a typical afternoon cream tea in the café, or head to The Bluebell Railway, a beautifully preserved steam railway line.
Spend your days on leisurely bike rides along quiet lanes, through villages and vineyards and your evenings relaxing in a country house hotel.
Cotswolds Countryside
An area of outstanding natural beauty, the Cotswolds is famous among cyclists and nature lovers alike. With some of the best cycling routes in the UK, a cycle here will mean passing by gentle rives, stone footbridges and golden fields spotted with sheep and shrubbery. Here, the English garden is on full display with thatched cottages and honey-bricked houses presenting the most beautiful botanical showcase. Local produce plays a big part in this region’s authenticity: taste the cream and jam scone that caused the age-old rivalry between Devon and Cornwall, devour a mountainous Sunday roast or enjoy a cold glass of locally brewed beer. A true rural paradise, a holiday here will leave you amazed.
The Cotswolds are a place like no other. With the use of a top of the range E-bike you can explore its quaint villages, meandering rivers and rolling hills.
Moreton-in-Marsh to Painswick
One of the best journeys through some of the Cotswold’s most iconic villages and towns, this route starts in Stow-on-the-Wold. The market town is famous for its mellow stone streets, ancient yew trees, a horse fair and fantastic foodie pubs. From here you’ll enter the quintessential Cotswold landscape full of picturesque villages with wonderful photo spots. Briefly crossing a main road, you’ll pass into Bourton on the Water, otherwise known as the Venice of the Cotswolds. Popular for the beautiful River Windrush that winds through the heart of the town, this site is a must-visit. Grab lunch at The Mouse Trap Inn and then return to pedalling in the rural countryside before hitting a string of photogenic villages and hamlets. For the last part of the ride through the Coln Valley, pop into the award-winning Diddly Squat Farm Shop and the breathtaking Miserden Estate.
Take a tour of the classic English countryside aboard a top of the range e-bike. Traversing the Cotswolds from north to south, this route blends the historical charm of the region with some of its finest contemporary touches.
Painswick Round Trip
Starting in the beautiful town of Painswick, this beautiful valley offers stunning Victorian timbered buildings and the 18th-century Rococo Garden. From Painswick, ride to Woodchester Valley Vineyard and become immersed in its thriving vineyard fields. Stop here for a refreshing taster of some of their indulgent wines before continuing onto the bustling town of Stroud. Cattle still graze in the ancient commons surrounding Stroud and are part of the National Trust’s grassland creation scheme which helps to reintroduce endangered animals and plants. Stroud itself is a delightfully alternative town, home to many conservation groups, the world’s only vegan football club, many wonderful cafes and a fabulous Saturday farmer’s market. After exploring here by foot return to Painswick via Rodborough Common.
To explore honey-coloured villages, wandering streams and local pubs serving up gourmet plates, speak to our experts on 020 3944 5834 to find out more about our cycling holidays in the UK.