Image by hotblack via Morguefile
Mother Nature’s Bike Trails
Hypnotic silence reigns, like a king over its subjects. Here, Mother Nature is at her best, alleviating the hectic hum-drum of traffic, tension and tourism. At times,Nature’s orchestra punctuates a glorious tapestry of silence. Silence is tranquil, awe-inspiring and stunning…it’s pure bliss for the cyclists who have chosen to observe nature at its work, a world away from the more common routes.
Welcome to one of Mother Nature’s best-kept secrets: her lesser-known cycle paths….
1) London’s Scenic Gardens
Our first cycle circuit takes us to the realms of Bloomsbury and Shoreditch to spy London’s lesser-known greenery; a route perfect for a lazy summer day. In all, the route is expected to take a few hours. But don’t worry! If you fancy a day out, the route can be easily extended to a whole day.
The route covers a stunning 24 gardens, starting and finishing with Russell Square, whisking you to historical gardens, architectural gems and memorials to cultural icons such as Daniel Defoe.
Keen to start peddling? Handy street maps and an adaptable route planner can be found here.
2) The Lake District and Cumbria
Enjoy the sights of the Lake District on one of its lesser-known cycle tours. Start at Whitehaven Harbour to Ennerdale Bridge and traverse through town roads, traffic-free cycle paths and back roads, with gently-undulating hills.
This particular route is suited to the more experienced cyclist as it involves travelling with traffic.
Keen to discover some breathtaking scenery? Check out maps and a cycling guide here.
3) The Lancaster Loop via Glasson Dock
Covering 17 miles, this cycle route takes you around Lancaster, allowing you to explore this quaint city with history and charm. The tour takes you to various country lanes, canal tow paths and cycle paths with some hills. It also circulates around Lancaster’s restaurants, shops and pubs.
Want a taste of Lancaster? Well, access maps and instructions here.
4) A Leisure Ride in Bristol
Take a short and sweet cycle ride on one of Bristol’s lesser-known gems: Frome Greenway. Explore historical sites such as Eastville Park and Hermitage Wood. The route takes you to off-road and on-road cycle paths, as well as some busy roads so is suitable for the more experienced cyclist.
Like the sound of Bristol? Print out a map here.
5) The Royal Forest of Dean
Explore one of the UK’s lesser-known forests. The Royal Forest of Dean is a beautiful cycling location with 27000 acres of deciduous and conifer woods. The forest provides breathtaking scenery and is suitable for both beginner and advanced cyclists.
Want to connect with nature? Check out all of the forest’s routes here.
England’s Cycle Paths
So, these are some of the UK’s lesser-known cycle paths ranging from London to Lancaster. All you need now is a helmet and a bike! Many locations provide leisure bikes to hire. So, enjoy peddling down the road less travelled.
What do you think? Leave your comments below…
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License: Creative Commons image source
Jennifer Leung is currently a student at the University of Manchester. She writes for All Terrain Cycles as well as maintaining her own lifestyle blog.
