Whether you're hoping to take full advantage of the extra day off work and plan a challenging multi-day cycle route, or you’re simply looking for a leisurely or family-friendly cycle ride, we've got the inspiration you'll need for a long weekend enjoying the National Cycle Network.
The National Cycle Network is yours to explore. Credit: Jon Bewley
We’ve put together a list of some of our favourite routes on the Network to make it easy for you to explore in your free time.
From Cornwall to Carlisle to London, we’ve got you covered.
So, pack your bags and take a trip on the National Cycle Network, wherever you are.
Multi-day cycle rides
Setting off on a long distance cycle ride can be both exciting and slightly daunting, especially if it's your first time.
Breaking up the journey across multiple days can make the ride more manageable while extending the adventure to last the length of a long weekend.
Multi-day rides are certainly worth planning for - ensuring you're prepared on what to bring with you and where you're going to rest your head for the night.
Isobel and Ellie shared their advice for how to prepare for long distance rides.
Hadrian's Cycleway, England
Distance: 170 miles, 273 kilometres
With lots of bank holiday weekends to look forward throughout the year, the UK's spring and summer months are the perfect time to take on a multi-day cycling trip.
At over 170 miles, Hadrian's Cycleway is a challenging trip that anyone would be proud of completing.
Your efforts will be rewarded with some of England's most dramatic countryside, Roman forts, museums and attractive market towns, all set in a World Heritage Site.
At 85 miles long the Bath To Bournemouth route can be completed in around two days. Credit: Brian Savidge
Bath to Bournemouth, England
Distance: 85 miles, 136 kilometres
This route begins in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath then passes through the UK's longest cycle and walking tunnel at Combe Down.
At 85 miles long and without too many climbs the route is not too taxing and could be completed over two days.
Which means, if you're starting in Bath and heading to Bournemouth, you'll have time after the ride to spend on the beaches in and around Bournemouth, which have some of the warmest sea temperatures in the UK and stunning views of the Isle of Wight. The perfect way to end a long distance cycle journey.
The Oban to Campbeltown route offers stunning views of the Scottish countryside. Credit: Sustrans
Oban to Campbeltown, Scotland
Distance: 119 miles, 191 kilometres
Part of the Caledonia Way, this mainly on-road route offers adventurous souls the chance to explore spectacular Scottish scenery.
This is a physically demanding long-distance route and is best suited for those who enjoy hill climbs and want to challenge themselves.
If this sounds like your cup of tea, you’ll get to enjoy stunning views of the Scottish countryside and picturesque harbours, castles and abbeys. What's not to love?
Easy-going day rides
Cycle rides don't always have to be lengthy and epic.
You can get just as much enjoyment out of an easy-going day ride.
As we head towards longer days with lighter mornings and evenings, it's easier to make the most of a day on the saddle.
What are you waiting for? Pack a picnic and find a route near you.
A long weekend is the perfect opportunity to explore the Network. Credit: Rafael Bastos
Chew Valley Lake Loop, England
Distance: 24 miles, 38.9 kilometres
The longer and brighter days are a perfect time to head out for a day ride and see the signs of spring and, latterly, the blooms of summer across the countryside.
This 24-mile loop takes you out of Bristol and into the Somerset countryside.
You can stop at Chew Valley Lake to spot try and spot some wildlife before heading back via Ashton Court, where you can pop into The Courtyard Cafe for a refreshing drink or a bite to eat.
London Docklands and Lea Valley
Distance: 21 miles, 33 kilometres
Escape the city on this 21-mile route which takes you from Greenwich Maritime World Heritage site to Lea Valley, a 10,000-acre green lung for London.
You’ll cycle along Regent’s Canal towpath, a fantastically tranquil waterway in the heart of London, and pass parks and nature reserves.
The Taff Trail runs for 55 miles between Cardiff and Brecon along a mixture of riverside paths, railway paths and forest roads. Credit: Jonathan Bewley
Taff Trail: Cardiff to Brecon
Distance: 55 miles, 88.5 kilometres
This day out starts in Wales’ bustling capital and ends in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park.
On the way, you’ll pass the 19th-century fairytale folly Castell Coch, weirs rich with wildlife and Cyfarthfa Castle before arriving in Brecon.
The 55-mile route is a long day but there are several train stations near the route, so you can take on as much as you like.
Browse more easy rides
You can explore more easy day rides near you in our regional map collection.
Family-friendly bike rides
Cycling alongside loved ones is a great way to spend quality time and make memories together.
Whether that’s walking, wheeling or cycling to your favourite local nature spot, travelling to get a bite to eat together, or taking a leisurely trip along your nearest National Cycle Network route.
We've got some route recommendations under 25km for you to enjoy with your little ones.
Cycling is a wonderful way to have fun as a family. Credit: Martin Bond/Sustrans
Comber Greenway, Northern Ireland
Distance: 7 miles, 11.2 kilometres
This seven-mile traffic-free route follows an old disused railway from Belfast to Comber.
The trail includes views of Stormont, Scrabo Tower, the Harland & Wolff cranes and the Belfast Hills.
Once back in Belfast visit the Titanic Quarter, then end your day in the National Trust-run Crown Bar, a fantastically atmospheric pub with period gas lighting and cosy snugs.
View of the man-made lake which can be spotted from The Clay Trails. Credit: J Bewley
The Clay Trails, Cornwall
Distance: 12 miles, 19 kilometres
This is one of our absolute favourite routes in the South West.
The Clay Trails consist of three spurs of three, four and five miles so you can easily do as much (or as little) as younger riders are ready for.
One trail ends at Par Sands beach where the water is safe and shallow, making this a great spot for a midday picnic or as an end of the day treat.
All the trails connect to the Eden Project, where the sci-fi-looking Biomes house huge rainforests.
You can even stay overnight at the on-site YHA hostel or campground and spend a few days exploring the nearby Camel Trail.
Getting out on the Swiss Valley Cycle Route provides an opportunity to soak up South Wales' countryside. Credit: Peter Knowles
The Swiss Valley Cycle Route, South Wales
Distance: 11 miles, 17 kilometres
This 11-mile route winds through a little slice of alpine scenery in South Wales.
It starts at Sandy Water Park (where you can spot swans and mallards) then climbs gently up a disused railway into rolling hills and past the peaceful Lliedi Reservoirs.
If you have the energy you can extend the route to the National Botanic Garden of Wales where there are themed gardens, a butterfly house and the world’s largest single-span glasshouse.
Read more of our route collections
