Best Family-Friendly Bike Routes in the UK for Summer

With hot days approaching quickly, we all want to spend time outdoors with our families. To make the most of the summer weather, why not trade in paddles for pedals and spend some time on two wheels? You can enjoy beautiful water views while pedalling, especially if you know where to go!

Check out these best bike routes and activities for your next family bike ride this season.

Camel Trail, Cornwall

(Image Credit: Flickr)

The Camel Trail is one of Cornwall’s best bike ride routes, and it’s perfect for beginners and families. This 18-mile trail features flat terrain that allows access to some of North Cornwall’s most beautiful scenery. It connects Wenforbridge, Bodmin, Wadebridge, and Padstow along a disused train line that was once part of the London and South West Railway. Cyclists typically take between 70 to 120 minutes to complete the trail.

Causeway Coast Cycle Route, Co Antrim

(Image Credit: Pexels)

The Causeway Coast Cycle Route runs along the stunning Antrim coastline. As part of the National Cycle Network (Route 93), it stretches 83 miles (133 kilometres) from Belfast to Ballycastle. Along the way, you and your family can enjoy numerous attractions, including Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle.

Pack everyone’s bike baskets with spare clothes and stop for a swim at one of the many sandy beaches! Plus, if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, this cycling holiday will take you to many of its iconic filming locations, such as the Dark Hedges.

Tip: Check out these best cycling holiday destinations for more ideas.

Ayrshire Coast Cycleway

(Image Credit: Geograph UK)

This 19-mile route offers the chance to experience the wonders of this part of Scotland. It takes long stretches of the Aryshire coastline between Irvine, Troon, Prestwick and Ayr. Enjoy cycling with the spectacular views across the Isle of Arran in the background. But that’s not all — you can also pass through two Scottish Wildlife reserves, Gailes Marsh and Shewalton Wood. If your little riders want to make a stop and take a quick dip, visit beaches along the way!

The North Thanet Coast, Kent

Summer is the perfect time to explore the Thanet coastline on two wheels and enjoy the fresh seaside air. Consider cycling along coastlines and through woodlands on these rides through Kent:

• Crab & Winkle Way - Canterbury to Whitstable: This mostly car-free route is great for families riding with kids. The idyllic 11.2 kilometre ride, suitable for kid’s bikes and adult bikes, will take you through woodland and scenic views. It’s about 40 minutes on the bike and a 2.5 hour walk.
• Broadstairs to Deal loop: This route gives a taste of the Viking Trail, passing through or around Sandwich. Cycle back towards the coast to reach Deal, and continue to Walmer if you fancy. Take in countryside and coast along the way on a mix of bike paths and riding on quiet roads.
• Ramsgate to Sandwich loop: This easy bike ride takes you inland towards Sandwich. It should take about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.

Oban to Fort William, Inverness-shire

The 49-mile section from Oban to Fort Williams welcomes you with a traffic-free path. Much of the trail between Oban and Ballachulish follows the old railway line that was once connected Connel to the slate quarries near Ballachulish. This course has stunning coastal views that make the ride well worth it.

The route continues from Fort William, starting near the base of Base Nevis, and follows through the Great Glen along the Caledonian Canal towpath. It then goes through cycle paths and forest roads to Fort Augustus, before moving onto quiet roads along the eastern side of Loch Ness, ending in Inverness.

Round-up

These are just a few of the best holiday bike ride spots for your family this summer. No matter where you choose to go, be sure to prepare for long rides in the sun. And while these routes are family-friendly, always prioritise safety by wearing your trusty Bobbin helmets.

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