The Best Destinations for UK Cycling Holidays

Cycling holidays in the UK are becoming increasingly popular, providing travellers with incredible opportunities for outdoor adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned professional seeking the most extreme routes or a family with young children wanting a peaceful escape, there are plenty of fantastic UK trails to explore.

From rolling valleys to lakeside flatlands, the UK’s landscapes are as diverse as they are beautiful, making them perfect to explore on two wheels. Venture to the Cornish coastlines for picturesque seafront views, the Scottish highlands for heather-covered moorland, or Northumberland for quaint hillside villages. 

If you’re seeking the best destinations for UK cycling holidays, here’s a list of 5 unmissable spots that offer something for every cycling enthusiast, regardless of age, ability or experience. 

Cornwall
Cornwall is situated in the UK’s southwest peninsula and is known for its dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches and quaint villages. There are many iconic routes in this coastal region, including the Camel Trail with gentle hills and scenic countryside views, perfect for families with children. If you’re craving adventure, The West Kernow Way is another fantastic option, with more challenging climbs for thrill-seekers. 

During your cycling holiday in Cornwall, visit the region's seaside towns for a blend of history, culture and natural beauty. St Ives is famous for its artistic heritage with galleries like the Tate, and its beautiful Porthmeor beach. After a day of cycling, take a dip in the Mediterranean-like turquoise waters and sample traditional Cornish ice cream. 

Spring is the ideal time to visit Cornwall on a cycling holiday, offering pleasant weather, blooming landscapes and quieter trails. Coastal breezes can still feel chilly, so be sure to layer up!

Scotland
Scotland is the northernmost country in the United Kingdom, and its wild and rugged terrain offers the perfect setting for cyclists seeking dramatic scenery and challenging routes. The Caledonian Way is popular for long-distance adventures, with stunning views of Loch Oban and Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK. 

For a mix of scenery and culture, the Isle of Skye is teeming with serene lochs and iconic landmarks. Cycle through the hilly terrain and stop at the enchanting Fairy Pools to see the cascading waterfalls, or stop at the capital town of Portree for a bite to eat and a fuelling coffee for the journey ahead. 

Late spring and early autumn are ideal times to visit Scotland on a cycling holiday with longer daylight hours. Visitors should be aware that distances can be deceptive due to hilly terrain, so allow extra time if you’re not a seasoned cyclist. 

When not cycling, Scotland’s incredible hiking trails provide the perfect way to continue exploring the dramatic landscapes on foot. Many cycling routes overlap or connect with iconic walking trails, offering a chance to swap the saddle for hiking boots and experience the scenery from a new perspective. For instance, Ben Nevis, a highlight for cyclists passing through Fort William, is also a classic hiking challenge, with its summit providing breathtaking views of the surrounding highlands.

The Lake District
The Lake District is located in northwest England and is a renowned national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to incredible wildlife and stunning lakeside vistas, the Lake District is a firm favourite for UK cycling holidays. 

Grizedale Forest is in the heart of the Lake District and offers routes through dense woodland for an immersive experience. There are a variety of trails that cater to different skill levels, making it suitable for beginners, families or experienced riders. Summertime is ideal in Grizedale Forest, with dry trails and vibrant fresh greenery. 

Derwentwater is located near the town of Keswick and is known as The Queen of the Lakes for its unparalleled lakeside views. Follow the looping trail through quiet country roads, passing by Ashness Bridge for panoramic views and the tranquil village of Portinscale where you can enjoy rowboat rides and slow-paced walks.

If you’re venturing on a cycling holiday with friends or family, there are some fantastic group accommodations in the Lake District for a cosy stay. After a day of exploration, retire to a large countryside house complete with magnificent mountain views, spacious living areas and private gardens. 

Wales
Wales is a country in the west of England and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers. With its diverse landscapes, Wales appeals to road cyclists and mountain bikers alike. If you’re seeking challenging climbs, venture to Brecon Beacon’s National Park to attempt the Taff Trail for long-distance adventures. 

Snowdonia National Park is also celebrated for its variety of cycling opportunities. The Coed y Brenin is one of the best-known mountain biking hubs in the UK, offering shorter trails for beginners or more demanding trails with rocky terrain and fast descents for high-speed thrills. 

If you love history, be sure to venture to the fairytale castles dotted along the Welsh coast. Caernarfon Castle in North Wales was built in the late 13th century, and Pembroke Castle in the south is renowned as the birthplace of the Tudor king, Henry VII. The castles are generally open all year round, but during winter and autumn opening hours may be reduced, so check before you visit!

Northumberland
Northumberland is a northeastern region in England, with a peaceful countryside that lures visitors from across the globe. If you’re seeking solitude and quiet coastlines, this northern gem is the ideal destination to explore on two wheels. 

Venture along the Coast and Castles route which connects Newcastle Upon Tyne to Edinburgh for a cross-county challenge. Covering a range of landscapes with both on-road and off-road cycling, this route offers varied terrains and the chance to spot some iconic landmarks, like Bamburgh Castle. 
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The Sandstone Way is another great biking trail in Northumberland; a 120-mile stretch of rugged landscapes, grassy paths and short climbs. With fewer tourists in spring and autumn, cyclists can stop in the historic town of Berwick to peacefully explore the iconic Elizabethan walls and art galleries or relax on its sandy beaches. 

Summary 
The UK is home to a variety of landscapes, offering unparalleled beauty, history and culture, making it the perfect setting for cycling holidays. From the rugged Scottish Highland terrain to the smooth pathways of the Lake District, the UK is as diverse as it is breathtaking.

Whether you're seeking challenging mountainous climbs or peaceful rides through historic towns, there's something for everyone to explore and enjoy. 

Be sure to include these destinations in your itinerary for a cycling holiday to remember!