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Best UK family friendly cycling routes

Most cyclists of any experience level would agree that you feel an incredible sense of freedom when you take to two wheels, and start out on a cycling exploration. The UK has an extensive network of cycle routes and trails that criss-crosses the country – many of these routes are family friendly which is perfect for anyone finding their cycling legs for the first time, young or old.

When your family unit has little ones that are wide-eyed for adventure and brimming with energy, there are some fabulous cycle routes you can introduce them to. We’ve picked out some top locations, recommended through our magazine columnist John Manning’s first-hand experience, as well as reviews and feedback from our lovely members. Nothing too hilly but with plenty to see along the way and most importantly, lots of fun for the family to explore by bike.

High Lodge, Thetford Forest | Norfolk

Take to winding bike paths through stunning mature forest of conifer, ash and oak

  • Terrain: Smoothed, undulating dirt tracks, mixed cycle routes of varying difficulties
  • Highlights: Colour coded trails for all abilities, stunning tree colours in late summer and autumn
  • Tips for this trail: There is a bike shop in the area so be sure to stop by for essentials
  • Nearest campsites: Thetford Forest Club Campsite

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The Monsal Trail | Peak District

On this cycle route, you'll journey along a disused railway, pass towering limestone cliffs, broadleaf woodland the views across the River Wye

  • Terrain: Mostly flat, tarmacked and concrete surfaces - great for road bikes and beginners
  • Highlights: There are many well-lit old train tunnels that you can cycle through - kids love to holler and call out
  • Tips for this trail: Take a torch with you, just in case the tunnel lights are turned off
  • Nearest campsites: Buxton Club Campsite | Chatsworth Park Club Campsite | Castleton Club Campsite

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Sherwood Forest | Nottinghamshire

Cycle through vast woodland of many tree varieties, including the lime tree avenue and birch plantation. 

  • Terrain: One or two slight inclines, otherwise flat; tarmacked trails and well-trodden dirt tracks
  • Highlights: Vast woodland of many tree varieties
  • Tips for this trail: Look out for the National Trust tea room across the lake at the trail’s end
  • Nearest campsites: Clumber Park Club Campsite

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Rutland Reservoir | Oakham

Cycle on a route that takes you around Rutland Reservoir, where you'll enjoy beautiful views across the water.

  • Terrain: A mixture of dirt, gravel and tarmac tracks; mostly off road
  • Highlights: There are bird hides along the way, plus many pubs and cafes
  • Tips for this trail: Keep in mind that if you wish to cycle the entire route, it’s 17 miles (23 miles including the hilly Hambleton Peninsula); there are also a couple of bike shops on route
  • Nearest campsites: Rutland Caravan and Camping Site

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Kielder Water | Northumberland

Take your family bike ride through the expanses of Kielder Water, and explore a mixture of open grass land and woodland

  • Terrain: Flat but undulating, mostly compact and wide dirt tracks 
  • Highlights: Installation sculptures along the route, such as the Forest Head; spotting for Red Squirrels, and ospreys in the summer
  • Tips for this trail: The cycle route is long but can be broken up with a visit to Kielder Castle and a café stop
  • Nearest campsites: Lidalia Club Campsite | Nunnykirk Club Campsite

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Information

Did you know that now you can hire bikes at selected Club Campsites? Simply download the 'App-Bike' app and you'll be good to go. Find out more.

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