2 minute summary Irish Sea to North Sea Land’s End to John O’ Groats Cornwall The Cotswolds The South Downs The Isle of Wight Hadrian’s Wall

Cycling in England travel guide

Cycling in England can take you on classic long distance routes such as Lands’ End to John O’Groats, travelling the length of the country; or the Irish Sea to the North Sea, going west to east. And they can just as easily see you setting a much gentler pace, perhaps getting a little extra oomph from an electric bike in the scenic surrounds of Devon.

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Cycling in England travel guide

“It’s always the cake,” affirms James Adkin, from our specialist operator Explore, on cycling from one coast of England to the other. “In the pub every evening that’s what people talk about most. How sore their bum is, and how good the cake was that afternoon.” Cycling in England involves changeable weather, tricky hills and sometimes sore bums, but you’ll forgive everything for the cake.

The great joy of climbing into the saddle here is that every ride promises the reward of a local pub sooner or later, and landlords love nothing more than the sight of a group of hungry and thirsty riders.

But your options aren’t limited to long, point to point rides with hours in the saddle every day. For a relaxed getaway there’s electric bike cycling in Devon, on country roads through some of England’s most beguiling natural scenery, or weekends in the Peak District or the Cotswolds. And, of course, there are always plenty of local pubs waiting to welcome you in. It’s vital not to understate how important that last part is.

Find out more with our cycling in England travel guide…

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Do go cycling in England if…

…you like a challenge, with epic (though relaxed) routes the length or width of the country available. Easygoing cycling in Devon is another option, though. …you prefer a higher standard of ‘fuel’ – trip organisers take care to either stop at or recommend local cafés, pubs and restaurants where you’ll eat very well. …you’re a dab hand with a puncture. Support vehicles accompany long-distance trips, and on tailor made trips you can always request a pick-up. But knowing how to perform a DIY repair can come in handy. …scenery is important for you. From the Lake District to Cornwall and the Somerset Levels, cycling in England takes you through some of the country's most celebrated natural landscapes.

Don’t go cycling in England if…

…rain is a deal breaker for you. Even in the summer, you’ll want to pack waterproofs. This is England, after all. …you want your winter cycling to be dry. Head abroad for warmer, drier winter weather. England is nicest when cycled between late spring and early autumn. …you’re not in fairly decent shape. A few weekend rides to practise before you go will serve you well. …you can’t cope with a little saddle-soreness. Comparing aches and pains at the end of the day is all part of the fun. Bring padded shorts and your own gel saddle, and keep on going.

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Best time to go cycling in England

Unlike tailor made tours, our small group cycling adventures operate to fixed schedules. The coast to coast, Irish Sea to North Sea trip, runs between April and October, while the Lands End to John O’Groats trip can usually be done only in June. Summer is usually going to give you the best weather, but if you catch a hot weekend in August you might find it tough going on the steep bits, so packing a couple of extra water bottles is advisable.

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