The best traffic-free bike rides in Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve

There are over 75 no-traffic road cycling routes available in and around Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve on komoot, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels for road cyclists.

The routes around Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve cater to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix, with over 30 easy routes perfect for a relaxed ride, more than 35 moderate routes for those seeking a bit more challenge, and a few difficult routes for experienced cyclists looking for a demanding workout.

Yes, there are over 30 easy, no-traffic road cycling routes available. While the core woodland paths are generally not suited for road bikes, many routes utilize quieter residential roads surrounding the reserve. These routes are ideal for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride.

While cycling the no-traffic routes around Ruislip Woods, you can explore various natural features and landmarks. A central attraction is Ruislip Lido, a sandy beach with a café. The routes often pass through or near the ancient woodlands of Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve itself, offering glimpses of diverse flora and fauna. You might also encounter the Ruislip Youth War Memorial Chapel.

Many of the no-traffic road cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Slade Oak Lane – Ashridge Lane and Horse Hill loop from Northwood is a moderate 50 km circular route, and the Ruislip Lido – Chenies Climb and Village loop from Ruislip offers a more challenging 109 km circular ride.

Spring is particularly beautiful, as the woods are adorned with magnificent displays of bluebells. However, the surrounding road networks are generally pleasant for cycling throughout the warmer months. Be mindful that woodland paths can become muddy after rain, but the focus here is on no-traffic road routes, which are less affected by such conditions.

Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. Ruislip Lido features a café, which can be a convenient stop on routes that pass by. Additionally, the Le Camping de la Plage Café is another option for a break.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.47 stars. Reviewers often praise the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the ancient woodlands and surrounding countryside on quieter roads, away from heavy traffic. The variety of routes, from easy to challenging, is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, the broader Ruislip area is accessible by public transport, making it possible to reach starting points for many routes. Stations like Northwood Hills and South Ruislip can serve as convenient access points to the network of quieter roads that connect to the various sections of Ruislip Woods.

While the main woodland paths are more suited for trail bikes, the network of quieter residential roads surrounding Ruislip Woods offers family-friendly road cycling opportunities. These routes allow families to explore the vicinity safely. For a dedicated off-road family option, the David Brough Cycle Route in Bayhurst Wood is a 2 km circuit suitable for all abilities, though it's not a road cycling route.

One of the longer no-traffic road cycling routes is the Ruislip Lido – Chenies Climb and Village loop from Ruislip, which spans approximately 109 kilometers (68 miles) and features significant elevation gain, making it a challenging option for experienced riders.

Some routes in the broader Ruislip area may incorporate parts of the Ebury Way, which is a flat, traffic-free cycle path between Rickmansworth and Watford. This shaded path offers a scenic and relaxed cycling experience, often featuring picturesque bridges.