Cyclist-Friendly UK Holiday Spots: Easy to Expert

Real cyclists know it’s the best way to soak up the sights, sounds and atmosphere of your holiday spot. So get your Tour de France on right at home and do a fresh British break.

Discover three of the best bike-friendly destinations in the UK. But remember, you’ll need somewhere to rest after a hard day’s cycling, so check out the local Travelodge for a hot shower and a place to put your weary legs up.

1. Cycle the South Downs with the family

An area that has something for cyclists of all ages and abilities, the South Downs hills near Brighton run along all the way to Winchester (about 75 miles). There are free parking areas too, so map your route with the South Downs Way site.

Older children will want to cycle over Beachy Head and look down the cliff face into the raging surf or peer across the horizon to France. Then make your way down into Brighton (21 miles), where you’ll find more one-off shops, bars and restaurants than you can handle.

And don’t forget the boardwalk and the arcade. There are rewards for everyone after a long day on two wheels. Book the weekend in a Brighton Travelodge today and pull those bikes out of the shed.

2. Cheshire Lanes and Route 70 for big space

Head for the Cheshire Lanes, south of Manchester, if gorgeous mountain backdrops are your thing. You’ve got the Pennines surrounding this glorious cycling route, but the going’s not tough with just a few rises here and there.

Take your cue from local riders and wind your way through leafy lanes and over undulating terrain as you enter WAG country (many of the top Premier League footballers live in this area) and cross peaceful Tatton Park.

Crash out at a Manchester Travelodge before taking on the Cycleway known as Route 70. This 176-mile route opens up the county for riders, with stretches of flat plain, easygoing canal towpaths, cute village stopovers and tougher hill routes with wide views across Cheshire. Pack lunch and get going.

3. More bikes than Brontosaurus on the Jurassic Coast

From East Devon to Dorset stretches the Jurassic Coast, so-named for its hoard of fossil discoveries that are still being turned up by excited tourists today. What’s more, you’ll find plenty of National Cycle routes to get the heart pumping.

Take an easy-rated 12-mile path from Exeter to Exmouth for narrow seaside roads, beach views and salty air. From Exmouth you can continue up the coast to Sidmouth on a slightly more hilly route. While expert cyclists can tackle the extra 31 miles to Lyme Regis, where the cool waters and warm sands of Lyme Bay await.

After all those hill climbs you’ll need a place to have a nice bath and relax, so why not check out our Exeter Travelodge and start pumping those tyres up today!