Cycling is one of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors, stay active, and spend quality time with the family. With brighter weather on the way, there’s no better time to explore some of the UK’s most scenic locations from forests to country parks. Whether you’re looking for gentle trails or more adventurous paths, these stunning locations offer something for every cyclist in the family.
Keep reading as we cover some of the UK’s most scenic places to cycle with the family.
Sherwood Pines, Nottinghamshire
Explore the legendary home of Robin Hood on two wheels! Sherwood Pines is a popular choice, offering plenty of scenic family-friendly cycle routes for varied abilities.
The Maid Marion Family Cycle route (4 miles)
The Maid Marion Family Cycle Route is a pleasant 4-mile loop that winds through the forest, making it perfect for younger riders. When riding at a leisurely pace, the route takes just over an hour to complete and the route is dotted with picnic benches, so plenty of opportunities for breaks.
New Forest National Park, Hampshire
The New Forest is a haven for both nature lovers and cyclists of all ages. With over 100 miles of car-free, waymarked cycling routes, families can safely pedal through enchanting woodlands, open heathlands, and quaint villages.
Some of the popular New Forest family cycling routes include:
The Beaulieu to Buckler’s Hard Cycle Trail (2 miles)
The Beaulieu to Buckler’s Hard Cycle Trail offers a picturesque ride through the heart of the New Forest. This scenic 2-mile route winds along the Beaulieu River, providing cyclists with stunning views of the water and surrounding woodlands. Suitable for families and riders of all levels, the trail connects the historic village of Beaulieu with the charming hamlet of Buckler’s Hard, making it a perfect blend of nature, history, and leisurely exploration.
The Burley Hill Fort Loop (9.3 miles)
The Burley Hill Fort Loop is an excellent trail for families to explore, offering a variety of amenities in the charming village of Burley. Here, you can enjoy a selection of refreshments, browse gift shops, and access convenient car parks and public toilets. Keep in mind that once you embark on the trail, there are no additional facilities, so take full advantage of the village’s offerings before setting out on your adventure.
The Brockenhurst to Lyndhurst Loop (10.9 miles)
The Brockenhurst to Lyndhurst Loop is a 10.9-mile cycling route that offers a rewarding journey through the heart of the New Forest. This longer route is best suited for families with older children or more experienced cyclists, providing a mix of scenic beauty and gentle challenges.
Midway through the route, cyclists can take a well-deserved break in Lyndhurst, the vibrant ‘capital’ of the New Forest. Here, you’ll find an array of cafes, pubs, and restaurants, perfect for a refreshing meal or a quick snack. Lyndhurst also offers unique shops and historical landmarks to explore, adding a cultural touch to your adventure.
The village of Brockenhurst, the starting and ending point of the loop, is equally charming, with additional dining options and amenities to enjoy before or after your ride. This route offers the perfect balance of nature, relaxation, and exploration, making it a memorable experience for all.
Delamere Forest, Cheshire
The Delamere Forest is a tranquil setting in Cheshire, offering a mix of family cycling routes suitable for all abilities.
The Hunger Hill Trail (4 miles)
The Hunger Hill Trail is a gentle 4-mile route, ideal for families, featuring a few short, invigorating climbs and stunning views of Blakemere Moss. This scenic trail offers a delightful balance of ease and adventure, making it perfect for younger riders.
For those seeking a bit more of a challenge, variations of the trail are available, but the Blakemere Moss route remains a favourite for its family-friendly appeal. With a café conveniently located nearby, it’s easy to take a well-timed break and enjoy some refreshments, adding to the overall enjoyment of the journey.
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, Scotland
For a family cycling adventure with breathtaking views, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs certainly delivers.
Loch Katrine Cycle Route (14 miles)
The Loch Katrine Cycle Route takes you along the stunning loch shores. At 14 miles long, it’s suitable for families with older children or those ready for a slightly longer ride.
The stunning views of the loch and surrounding hills create a picturesque backdrop, while numerous picnic spots offer ideal breaks. With its rich historical connections and peaceful setting, the route not only provides a fun outdoor activity but also an educational experience, making it a memorable adventure for the whole family.
Rutland Water, Leicestershire
Rutland Water offers one of the most picturesque cycling routes in the UK, perfect for those looking for a family cycling adventure in the East Midlands.
Family Trail (8 miles)
As the name suggests, the Family Trail is perfect for families! This flat, tarmacked route makes it ideal for kids. The route begins in the village of Whitwell and continues to Normanton, with fantastic views of the church and the water.
Coed y Brenin, Wales
Located in Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), Coed y Brenin is a dream for adventurous families. While it’s best known for mountain biking, it also has cycling trails suitable for families. The stunning Welsh scenery and well-marked routes make it a fantastic place to explore together.
Yr Afon (6 miles)
Yr Afon covers spectacular scenery including the Gain and Mawddach waterfalls. The route is relatively flat with a few mildly steep descents, so kids will need to be confident in controlling their bikes. If you’re looking for a scenic family escape, the Yr Afon Trail provides a memorable outdoor experience.
Cannock Chase, Staffordshire
Cannock Chase is a beautiful Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, perfect for families and nature lovers. It’s a protected landscape, full of amazing wildlife and rich cultural heritage. It’s a wonderful place to explore, whether you’re walking, cycling, or riding horses.
Everyone is encouraged to care for this special place and be thoughtful towards others enjoying the Chase. Let’s protect, respect, and enjoy this incredible natural treasure together!
Pedal and Play Trail (1.2 miles)
The Pedal and Play Trail offers an easy 1-mile ride through scenic woodland, for children between the ages of 3-11 years. The route contains 3 challenges, with each one becoming slightly more difficult to help kids build their skills and confidence.
Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
With its dense woodlands and tranquil rivers, the Forest of Dean is an ideal destination for family cycling.
The Colliers Trail (9 miles)
The Colliers Trail is a 9-mile circular cycle route perfect for all ages, passing through ancient trees and wildlife-rich areas. The terrain is mostly flat, making it perfect for younger children, while older cyclists can venture on more challenging tracks and optional ‘skill zone’ areas.
Yorkshire Dales National Park, Yorkshire
The Yorkshire Dales offers some of the most dramatic landscapes in England that provide an excellent backdrop for family cycling adventures.
The Malham Tarn Cycle Route (4.5 miles)
The Malham Tarn Cycle Route is a popular family-friendly option, featuring a 4.5-mile route that showcases some of the park’s best views. For families with older children, there are more demanding routes that lead to incredible viewpoints and picturesque villages. The Dales’ scenic beauty makes it a fantastic destination for cycling and family exploration.
Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, Kent
Bedgebury is an enchanting forest park in Kent, offering a variety of cycling trails suitable for all ages.
Short Family Cycle Trail (2.8 Miles)
The Short Family Trail is a simple 2.8-mile route through the forest, ideal for young families. Parts of the route requires basic off-roading skills and parents may need to provide assistance to very young riders in parts due to slightly hilly and gravelly areas.
There is also a longer 5.6-mile family trail for more experienced cyclists, which provides stunning views.
Top tips for family cycling
Now you’ve got some inspiration on the some of the best family cycle routes in the UK, it’s time to make sure you have everything you need for your adventures. Here are our top tips for ensuring a safe and fun family bike ride:
Plan ahead
Check the park/forest website for trail maps and facilities like parking, toilets, and cafes.
Pack essentials
Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Don’t forget bike helmets for everyone!
Check your bikes
Ensure your bikes are in good condition before setting out. Halfords offers a free bike health check if you need a tune-up.
Dress comfortably
Layer up for cooler weather and wear bright or reflective clothing for visibility.
Before your next family cycling adventure, make sure your bikes are ready for the journey. Visit your local store or browse online to gear up for a fun and memorable day out!
