The best cycling routes in Cambridgeshire

Cambridgeshire offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 1600 routes available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy rides through flat Fenland to more challenging long-distance tours.

The terrain in Cambridgeshire is predominantly flat, especially in the expansive Fenland areas, making it ideal for touring cyclists of all abilities. In the southern part of the county, you'll find gently rolling chalk uplands, such as the Gog Magog Hills, which offer some varied elevation. Many routes follow river valleys, providing tranquil, level paths.

Yes, Cambridgeshire is well-suited for easy and beginner-friendly touring cycling. The flat topography, particularly in the Fenland, makes for accessible rides. Routes like the Huntingdon to Fen Drayton Lakes via St Ives on the Busway river path offer traffic-free experiences. The Historical bike tour of Cambridge is another easy option to explore the city's landmarks.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Cambridgeshire are designed as loops. For example, the Grafham Water loop from St Neots offers a moderate 20.8-mile (33.5 km) circular path with scenic views. Other options include the Cambridge to Haverhill loop and the Cambridge to Royston loop for longer rides.

Cambridgeshire offers diverse scenic landscapes. You'll encounter the unique, low-lying Fenland with its wetlands and waterways, especially around areas like Wicken Fen. River valleys, such as those along the River Cam and River Great Ouse, provide tranquil cycling paths. In the south, the Gog Magog Hills offer gently rolling hills and panoramic views. Historic cityscapes, particularly in Cambridge, also provide picturesque backdrops.

Yes, Cambridgeshire's routes pass by many interesting attractions. You can cycle past historic colleges in Cambridge, explore the area around Grafham Water, or visit the magnificent Ely Cathedral, which can be a focal point for longer tours like the Ely Cathedral gravel loop. Other highlights include National Trust properties like Anglesey Abbey and Houghton Mill, and nature reserves such as Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve.

The touring cycling routes in Cambridgeshire are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 2000 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's flat and accessible terrain, the variety of scenic landscapes from historic cities to tranquil fens, and the well-maintained paths, including traffic-free options like the Guided Busway Cycle Path.

Absolutely. The predominantly flat terrain and numerous traffic-free paths make Cambridgeshire excellent for family cycling. The Cambridge Guided Busway Cycle Path is a wide, blacktopped route suitable for all ages. Exploring areas like Wicken Fen or cycling around Grafham Water also offer enjoyable experiences for families.

While many outdoor areas in Cambridgeshire are dog-friendly, specific rules for cycling with dogs can vary by route and land ownership. Generally, if dogs are permitted on a path, they should be kept on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature reserves. Always check local signage or specific route descriptions for guidance on bringing your dog.

Spring and autumn are often considered the best times for touring cycling in Cambridgeshire, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it can get warm, and winter cycling is possible, but routes may be colder and potentially muddier in some unpaved sections.

Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, Cambridgeshire offers several longer touring routes. The St Ives and Ely loop from Cambridge is a difficult 55-mile (88.7 km) ride. Another challenging option is the Cambridge to Saffron Walden loop, which includes some of the chalk uplands.

For additional information on local cycle routes and maps provided by the county council, you can visit the Cambridgeshire County Council's active travel section. They often provide resources for cyclists in the region. You can find more details at cambridgeshire.gov.uk.