Top 10 Scenic Cycling Routes in the UK to Try in Spring & Summer 2025
May 15, 2025
Ideal for solo riders and cycling groups seeking panoramic countryside views
If you're planning your next two-wheeled escape, spring and summer 2025 promise to be the perfect seasons to explore some of the most scenic cycling routes the UK has to offer. Whether you're chasing clifftop views, tranquil forest trails, or a challenge across mountain passes, these ten routes combine beauty, variety, and accessibility for all levels of riders.
And if you're an electric bike enthusiast (or considering becoming one), you’ll be pleased to know that each route below is e-bike friendly, making long distances and steep climbs feel like a breeze.
Let’s dive into the UK bike trails that should be top of your list in 2025.
1. The Cinder Track, North Yorkshire Coast
Distance: 35km | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate | Type: Off-road
One of the most scenic cycling routes in the UK, the Cinder Track runs from Scarborough to Whitby along a disused railway line. This traffic-free trail offers clifftop views, forest detours, and charming seaside stops like Robin Hood's Bay. You’ll pass waterfalls at Hayburn Wyke, quiet bays like Maw Wyke Hole, and have the chance to spot wildlife.
Electric bike riders will appreciate the flat gradient, and the easy-going nature of the path makes it ideal for families and beginners too. With plenty of tea shops en route and a beachside stay at the newly refurbished Hotel Victoria, this is a perfect spring or summer ride.
2. The Camel Trail, Cornwall
Distance: 19km (Padstow to Bodmin) | Difficulty: Easy | Type: Traffic-free
Connecting Padstow and Bodmin, the Camel Trail is one of the best cycling paths in the UK, and even more magical outside the peak tourist season. This family-friendly route is a former railway line that now caters to cyclists, walkers, and even baby buggies.
The ride takes you along the tranquil Camel Estuary, through moorland hills and past vineyards. Electric bikes allow you to cruise along effortlessly, especially handy when navigating the longer stretch to Bodmin. The Harbour Hotel in Padstow makes for a comfortable base with easy access to Constantine Bay for a post-ride stroll.
3. Duke’s Pass, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
Distance: 13km | Difficulty: Moderate | Type: Road & Trail
This Caledonian gem is a highlight of National Cycle Network Route 7 between Strathyre and Aberfoyle. Think lochs, glens, and forested mountain views worthy of a postcard. The Duke’s Pass is a short but rewarding climb, best appreciated with an electric assist.
Aberfoyle offers plenty of refreshment spots for a mid-ride break, and those staying at Strathyre can reward themselves with a hot tub soak after a day of exploring. This is one of the most picturesque UK bike trails for spring, as wildflowers bloom across the park.
4. Box Hill Olympic Circuit, Surrey Hills
Distance: 11 miles (one loop) | Difficulty: Intermediate | Type: Road
Made famous by the 2012 Olympic Games, Box Hill is one of England's iconic climbs. A loop around this route offers hairpin bends, a steady 5% gradient and panoramic views over the Surrey Hills.
Electric bikes make light work of the hill, allowing you to enjoy the ride rather than endure it. Base yourself at the Mercure Box Hill Burford Bridge Hotel and spin through neighbouring villages like Holmbury St Mary. Ride it once, or double up for a proper workout.
5. Peddars Way, Norfolk
Distance: 74km | Difficulty: Moderate | Type: Mixed terrain
A historic Roman road turned National Trail, Peddars Way runs from Knettishall Heath to the Norfolk coast at Holme-next-the-Sea. The route passes through heaths, woodlands and wetlands rich in wildlife, with occasional gravel and farm tracks that are easily managed with wider tyres or an electric gravel bike.
Stay nearby at Thorpe Forest and enjoy a peaceful ride through the Brecklands, one of the UK’s most distinctive landscapes. This is a perfect trail for solo riders seeking serenity.
6. Bransdale Loop, North York Moors
Distance: 42km | Difficulty: Intermediate | Type: Road
The Bransdale Loop is a hidden gem that lets you explore the so-called 'lost dale' of Bransdale, only accessible by this single road. Quiet, remote, and wildlife-filled, it’s ideal for a spring or early summer escape.
The loop starts near the Forest Holidays cabins at Cropton and Keldy. Electric road bikes smooth out the few rolling climbs and allow you to make the most of the countryside cafes and pubs dotted along the route.
7. The Peregrine Path, Forest of Dean / Wye Valley
Distance: 13km | Difficulty: Easy | Type: Off-road / gravel
Winding between England and Wales, the Peregrine Path follows the River Wye through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s ideal for a slow-paced day out with scenic stops including Goodrich Castle and views across Symonds Yat.
This is one of the UK’s best cycling paths for spotting birds, including its namesake Peregrine Falcons. An electric hybrid or gravel bike is a great companion on this route, especially for newer riders or families. Stay nearby at the Forest of Dean cabins.
8. Kingham Loop, Cotswolds
Distance: 14 miles | Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate | Type: Road
A classic countryside loop through Chipping Norton and Stow-on-the-Wold, the Kingham Loop delivers Cotswold charm in every direction. Rolling fields, quiet lanes, and stone villages make this route a delight.
The relatively short distance makes it an easy afternoon ride—perfect for electric bikes if you'd rather spend your energy admiring the scenery than powering up gentle climbs. Enjoy lunch at The King’s Head Inn in Bledington and consider extending your stay at the Kingham Plough.
9. Watership Down Trail, Hampshire
Distance: 27km | Difficulty: Moderate | Type: Road & Trail
Ride through the rolling countryside that inspired Richard Adams’ classic novel, Watership Down. Starting from Kingsclere, the route climbs into the North Wessex Downs before looping through tranquil farmland.
It’s a rewarding trail with spectacular views, especially in early summer when the landscape is at its greenest. Electric bikes will make short work of the initial hill, letting you soak up the scenery without breaking too much of a sweat. Stay at Blackwood Forest cabins nearby.
10. Fred Whitton Western Loop, Lake District
Distance: 42.1 miles | Difficulty: Challenging | Type: Road
One for the more experienced riders, this western section of the Fred Whitton Challenge takes you through Cumbria’s legendary mountain passes—steep, beautiful, and often a bit wild.
Tackling climbs like Honister and Wrynose Pass is no small feat, but if you’re riding an electric road bike, you can take on this challenge with confidence. Komoot users love the route for its views, remoteness, and sense of achievement. Finish off your adventure with a stay in Grasmere or nearby Keswick.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a solo escape or group cycling trip, these scenic cycling routes across the UK offer something for everyone—history, natural beauty, and rideable adventure. As electric bikes continue to grow in popularity, they open up routes once limited to seasoned cyclists, making every trail above accessible to more people than ever before.
If you’re looking for the best cycling paths in the UK for spring and summer 2025, these ten rides strike the perfect balance of scenery, challenge, and unforgettable experiences.
Happy pedalling!
