#GetYourselfOutThere – Nine Of The Best Cycling Spots In The UK

With more people turning to outdoor exercise in lockdown, and the recent launch of the government ‘Fix Your Bike’ scheme, cycling is more popular than ever before. As well as a superb cardiovascular exercise and effective way of clearing your mind, it’s also a wonderful way to explore the British countryside – both close to home and further afield. Now that movement is less restricted than before, we’re inspiring you to #GetYourselfOutThere and explore the beauty and variety on our own doorsteps with this Muddy Matches guide to the best cycling spots in the UK. So whether you’re spending a day locally with your countryside connection or planning a UK Staycation, get your bike ready for a tour of beauty.

1. Yorkshire

Pedal the routes of the Tour de Yorkshire with a few days in God’s Own County. Heading up to the lesser known East Yorkshire wolds, this delightful route passes through the picturesque market town of Beverley before heading out to ascend the the undulating hills of the Peak District and Haworth, then finishing fast with a sprint over the open moors of Ilkley. There are plenty of places to stop, eat and refresh, and why not add a few days on to explore the East Yorkshire coast?

2. Cornwall

See the undiscovered side of Cornwall and stay away from the busier roads with a trip along the Camel trail – a 29km route along a disused railway line. Pass through the breathtakingly beautiful Cornish countryside on your way from the wilds of Bodmin Moor to the famed Padstow, just in time for a well-earned plate of fish and chips and a pint.

3. Isle of Man

Better known for its TT motorcycling routes, the Isle of Man’s unspoilt countryside and quiet roads are also an ideal destination for more serious cyclists. Expect calm country road as well as sandy, coastal routes and you can even cycle from one side to the other in half a day, via coastal tracks, mountain climbs, quiet roads, stoney off-roads and paths.

4. Cambridge

Cambridgeshire’s flat fens make it the perfect place to build your speed and stretch your legs. We love the idea of taking a circular tour through Ely and finishing up in historic Cambridge. A cycle-friendly city, you can take in its exquisite collegiate architecture, follow the route of the Cam and stop off or a trendy artisan coffee.

5. Surrey

Perhaps you know Surrey as commuter-land, but its ripping countryside also makes for surprisingly satisfying cycling. With miles of Downs with unparalleled views over the London cityscape, you could create your own historic house itinerary, cycling from one extraordinary park to another stately pile.

6. Rutland

We love a circular tour and, off the beaten track, Rutland Water and Oakham is a wonderful place to make yours. Choose from a 17 mile lap or include the peninsula for a 23 mile route, and enjoy the smooth, tarmac path and its lake views. Don’t forget to stop off in Oakham for lunch and shopping.

7. The Lake District

Spice up your mountain hiking with a gentle afternoon of cycling. If mountain scrambles are a little much for you, head to the moderate slopes of Grizedale Forest. Surrounded by the natural magnificence of Cumbria’s mountain ranges, you’ll have fun on the miles of trails, climbs and descents.

8. Hampshire

Say yes to the South Downs! When the delights of Brighton and Bournemouth don’t float your boat, heading away from the summer crowds, up on to the clifftops, will give you a much-needed breath of fresh air. Challenge yourself to the Winchester to Brighton route and drink in the wonderful coastal views.

9. Southern Snowdonia

Snowdonia is synonymous with hiking and climbing, but why not try out cycling there too? The Llanberis Pass offers a wonderful circuit of Snowdon and you can continue your ride and head towards the coast at Tremadog Bay for gorgeous westerly sea views.

#GETYOURSELFOUTTHERE #MUDDYDATING #UKSTAYCATION