The 3 Best Cycling Routes in the UK

While it’s often been said that France and the continent has the best cycling routes in the world, this does a disservice to the quality of trails available in the UK.

From the Highlands in Scotland to the coastal trails in the south west of England, the UK is home to a number of stunning cycle routes that offer variable difficult levels for riders. This is great news for motorhome and VW camper conversions enthusiasts, as they pack their bikes and hit the road without having to leave the UK.

Below, we’ll look at some of the best cycle routes in the UK and ask what makes them so popular among riders.

The Scottish Highlands, Scotland

If you’ve ever visited the Scottish Highlands, you’ll be well acquainted with its natural, rugged beauty. Whether you’ve walked its famous peaks or cycled along its numerous trails, you cannot help but be awe-inspired by your surroundings.

The Scottish Highlands represent a truly stunning location, and one that takes in a number of different highlights. Not only this, but there are also various trails to suit various cyclist skill levels, from relative amateurs to those who have a more advanced ability.

From Dingwall to Strathpeffer, the picturesque Victorian spa town, for example, riders can enjoy relatively flat terrain and a serene cruising experience. By the time you pass the stunning Loch Garve, however, you’ll encounter a series of forest hills and take in some truly amazing views.

The clean Highlands air also boasts considerable appeal, so this is definitely a route that I would recommend.

The Surrey Hills, England

Next up is the Surrey Hills, which as the name suggests offer some genuinely stunning peaks and staggering countryside views.

An area of true natural beauty, the Surrey Hills are packed with a number of short and steep climbs, which offer the unique combination of challenging terrain and superb views for riders. Two of the most impressive peaks are Leith Hill and Ranmore Common, while Pebble Hill also offers a steep and hair-raising slope for riders.

For those who have never been to Surrey, there’s a tendency to believe the misconception that the county is flat.

This is entirely false, however, as it is actually home to some swooping peaks and stunning cycle routes.

The Cairngorms National Park, Scotland

For serious cyclists who like to travel in solitude, you’d have to go a long way to beat the peace and tranquillity of the stunning Cairngorms National Park. This is helped by the so-called ‘right to roam’ that exists north of the border, which means that cyclists can target any point between Aviemore and the Cairngorms and head out there without restriction.

The town of Aviemore is particularly beguiling, and one that combines superb trails with quaint eateries and a genuinely friendly atmosphere. There are bike paths at every single turn, however, and after a few moments of cycling you’ll soon find yourself surrounded by wild countryside and wonderful wilderness.

For family travellers, the Speyside Way region towards the Boat of Garten offers a relatively easy and scenic ride.

Predominantly flat and running parallel to a river for much of the stretch, it’s not too taxing and capable of providing a wonderful experience for everyone involved.

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