Exploring by bike
Pop to the shops, explore your local lanes or head off on a freewheeling holiday.
Cycling is a great way to keep fit, save money and help cut traffic – just a few of the benefits of bikes. Discover our top tips for enjoying days out, holidays and local travel by bike.
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Getting started
If you’re new or returning to cycling, there’s loads of help available to get you up and riding from people like Sustrans, Cycling UK and Love to Ride.
Your local bike shop can help you find the right bike and keep it running smoothly. Freewheel also offer aftercare from a local bike shop. Or you might find a local charity selling refurbished bikes, like this bike workshop in Bath. If you use a bike for getting to work you could save at least 25% with Cyclescheme.
If you fancy trying out a folding bike without buying one, you could check out Brompton Subscription, a sort of long-term hire scheme.
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Local cycling
A bike is the perfect way to get to local leisure facilities and shops. It can be quicker than driving and comes without the hassle of parking.
If you’re shopping then some panniers will come in handy. If you live somewhere hilly you might want to think about an electric bike.
You may be lucky enough to live on the National Cycle Network, but you can plan a route anywhere using Cyclestreets or Google maps (turn up the volume for on-bike SatNav). You can also find routes for local rides recommended by other cyclists on apps like Bikemap, Mapmyride or Komoot.
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Enjoy a cycling day out
Cycling is a great way to reach local attractions and beauty spots within 10 miles or so, making the journey part of the experience. Many of the attractions on our website offer discounts when you arrive by bike. You can plan your door-to-door route using CycleStreets – choosing a slower ride and quieter lanes, if you like.
Or turn the ride into the main attraction with a day out exploring the National Cycle Network or another local route.
To travel further afield, you can take your bike on the train (you may need to book). Alternatively, you could hire a bike at the other end through a bike share scheme. Find out more in this guide to cycle share schemes.
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Cycling holidays
You could set off from your door to explore the epic National Cycle Network. Or take your bike on the train to the holiday spot of your choice, if you book ahead.
If you’d prefer to let someone else sort out the route and the rooms, why not book a self-guided cycling holiday from people like Open Road Open Skies, Contours, or Skedaddle? Or if you feel like a relaxing option, then National Forest E-Bike Holidays could be just the thing.
For cycle-friendly accommodation try YHA and Premier Inn (who let you keep your bike in your room!).
