Biking has gone from pastime of the Lycra-clad to mode of transport and source of fun for the masses. From people commuting to work via the many cycling paths in the UK to those out on a relaxed ride at the weekend. And, of course, who can forget the fitness enthusiasts who tackle your local hills and valleys every week?
And what better way to celebrate our love for the bicycle than to explore some parts of the UK with our two-wheeled friend?
1. The Royal Route: Richmond to Hampton Court, London
Take to your bike through the picturesque surroundings of Richmond as you follow the meandering Thames to the Tudor splendour of Hampton Court.
Not only are you taking a trip through history (great for the kids), the route provides plenty of great pubs to keep you fed and watered along the way – the perfect mix between the life and times of Henry VIII and… his diet!
There are plenty of other cycle routes in the capital too, so if you fancy making a weekend of it, book a London Travelodge now to avoid disappointment.
2. Cycle the cosmos with The Solar System, York to Selby
This six-mile path offers an unusual departure from the usual cycle route because it is, in fact, modelled on our very own galaxy.
One for the serious explorers among you, the (very scaled down) model means you explore the cosmos at 10 times the speed of light on your bike. It’s even complete with planets along the way, each with its own information plaque for a dose of astronomy on your ride. Make it all the way to Pluto and you’ll have earned a drink at the Greyhound Pub nearby.
Naturally you’ll need somewhere to stick your moon boots at the end of the day, so why not book a room in our York Travelodge and explore what else this historic walled city has to offer?
3. Channel your inner Willy Wonka with the Chocolate Tour, Birmingham
If you needed a way of persuading the kids to jump on their bikes and join you on a two-wheeled journey, this could well be the route for you.
The Chocolate Tour starts in Brum and takes in the Rea Valley via a seven-mile trip to what can only be described as the closest you can get to a real life Willy Wonka Chocolate Factory… Cadbury World.
And after all that free chocolate you’ll no doubt need somewhere to sleep off that food coma. Luckily, our Birmingham Travelodge is the perfect place to do just that.
