Dog-friendly Holidays

Guide to Cycling Holidays!

With the opening of many hundreds of miles of cycle lanes and long-distance cycle routes over the last 15 years, there has never been a better time to take a cycling holiday in the UK. Indeed such holidays are rapidly increasing in popularity as the charity behind the National Cycle Network, Sustrans, becomes better known and as mapping and signage begins to proliferate. Wherever you find yourself in the UK, you will not be far from one of the network of cycle routes that now criss-cross Britain, from Lands End to John o'Groats and from Anglesey to Lincolnshire.

Not all of the routes are composed entirely of dedicated cycle paths. Often you will find yourself on quiet country lanes with very little motor traffic. Bikers' holidays may not be the quickest way to get from A to B, but that is not the point. The journey itself is the holiday and by taking a leisurely route along peaceful roads you will find yourself beginning to unwind and your concept of time will begin to change. You will pass through quintessential English villages at a slow pace, allowing you to take notice of the fine houses, perhaps the bowling-green or village pond. Because you are not enclosed in a car, you will be more accessible to the locals, many of whom will nod or greet you as you ride past. You will be able to drop into village pubs for a refreshing pint of ale or some find local food to resuscitate you before you continue the trip. You can drop into the village shop for an ice-cream or a cool drink and sit outside soaking up the atmosphere before once again mounting your bike ready for the next stage of your trip.

Depending on your energy levels, you should pick a suitable itinerary. If you are new to cycling, Lincolnshire would make an excellent destination, being a very flat county. If you prefer more of a challenge, head to the hills of Scotland or Yorkshire. The ultimate challenge is to cycle from bottom to top, that is, Lands End to John O'Groats. Another popular ride is the Coast to Coast in the north of England. Once again, this is a hilly ride. Allow also for the fact that you may be riding against prevailing winds that slow your progress.

All youth hostels welcome cyclists. Indeed there was a time not too long ago that YHA hostels in England did not allow people to arrive by car. You will find also that increasing numbers of hotels and bed and breakfasts welcome bikes, since they have over the last few years recognised that cyclists bring useful revenue. You may well find a sign or sticker at your hotel or guest-house advertising "Bike Friendly", in which case you can expect to find a secure and sheltered place to leave your bike overnight.

Please note: the above article is provided by an external third party.