The UK’s Best Cities for Cyclists: A Comprehensive Guide

If you enjoy leisurely cycling around the UK on your Bobbin bike, this guide is for you! We’ll take you to the best cycling cities, exploring bike-friendly spots for cyclists of all levels, including:

• Edinburgh, Scotland
• Manchester, England
• York, England
• Bristol, England
• Cardiff, Wales

If these locations interest you, keep reading to learn more about them and what they offer.

Edinburgh, Scotland

 

(Image Credit: Flickr)

Edinburgh is very bike-friendly, with many off-road bike paths, on-road cycle lanes, and special stop lines at traffic lights for cyclists. Pedalling through the city lets you enjoy its natural beauty and urban view.

For a family bike ride, enjoy parks and scenic routes, such as the Water of Leith Walkway, which follows a winding river. Or take the Arthur’s Seat for some challenging climbs with your friends. Note: Always prioritise safety by wearing your bike helmet, checking your brakes, and pacing yourself when tackling hills.

Manchester, England

 

(Image Credit: Flickr)

Urban bicycles or city bikes are perfect for exploring the lively city of Manchester. Head to the Peak District National Park, the UK’s oldest national park, and cycle across its 555 square miles of breathtaking landscapes. Routes like the Monsal Trail offer a scenic journey through viaducts and well-lit tunnels, passing former stations along the way. It’s traffic-free and a great option for wet weather. Manchester’s accessibility and diverse landscapes make it a promising cycling holiday destination.

York, England

York is known for its extensive network of off-road cycle paths and on-road cycle lanes, making it welcoming for cycling enthusiasts. With less than three miles between the outer ring road and the city centre, you can get around the city fast and easily — perfect for beginners.

Take Route 65 from York to Skelton or Beningbrough along the river path. You’ll see some great sculptures and lots of wildlife along the way, which kids will enjoy! When you reach the sign for Skelton 1/4 mile at the end of the cycle path, you can shorten your ride by turning around and heading back or right onto Shipton Road.

Tip: Take a break and refuel yourself at Home Farm Beningbrough or Beningbrough Hall (entrance fees apply/membership is required, though). Once you’ve finished exploring and resting, just follow the same route back.

Bristol, England

Bristol earns its reputation as one of the best cycling towns. The city’s dedication to cycling is evident in its extensive network of well-maintained bike lanes and cycle-friendly infrastructures.

You wouldn’t want to miss the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, one of Bristol’s most recognisable structures when visiting the city. It’s free of charge for cyclists, pedestrians, and horse riders, and no booking is required. However, there are Byelaws and Rules you need to keep in mind, which covers the following:

• Cyclists must stay on the roadway on the bridge, use the cycle lanes at the toll barriers, and get off the bike if using the footsteps.
• No person shall proceed across the bridge if so instructed by an authorised officer of the Trust.
• Bridge users shall comply with all official notices and directions given by an authorised officer of the Trust.

Cardiff, Wales

(Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons)

Cardiff is a must-visit for cyclists seeking a weekend ride or holiday adventure. Explore the beautiful Taff Trail, meandering along the River Taff. It stretches 55 miles between Cardiff and Brecon along a mixture of riverside paths, railway paths and forest roads.

Or take the route along the Cardiff Bay Trail for a coastal journey around the Bay and across to the seaside town of Penarth via Pont Y Werin in the summer. After that, rest and enjoy a picnic in the city’s scenic parks, like Bute Park and go for a leisure ride.

Cardiff’s free walking and cycling map can help you plan your journeys around the city. You can also pick up a map at various locations, such as libraries and community learning centres.

So, which of these cities will be your first destination? There should be plenty of places to park your bicycle, so you can tour around on foot — but make sure to use a bike lock for security. Bike rental shops are available, too, but we recommend bringing your trusty adult bike for convenience.

Up next on your reading list: Tips for Cycling on a Hot and Sunny Day