Cycling Holidays in the UK

From serene cycles along the Caledonian Canal in the heart of the Scottish Highlands to pedalling through the quaint honey-coloured Cotswold villages that inspired some of the world’s greatest poets, our cycling holidays will bring you closer to uncovering the unique cultures, charms and distinct local flavours the United Kingdom has to offer.

Why not choose to explore the enchanting Cotswolds England’s largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) on two wheels with our Classic Cotswold Cycling trip? On this self-guided trip, enjoy riding towards some of the Cotswolds world-famous villages, including Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Campden and the ancient Saxon capital of Winchcombe. Along the route, you’ll also have the opportunity to visit stunning national trust gardens, castles, and other notable historical landmarks.

If you’re looking to take in the mysterious and rugged Scottish scenery by bike, our Loch Ness & the Highlands Cycling route winds along the Caledonian Canal and on towards Fort Augustus, following historic military roads laid down by General Wade. Passing serene lochs, spectacular fells and inviting traditional tearooms, you end your adventure in the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness.

For pastel-coloured harbours, traditional fishing villages and famous rock formations, our Ride the South Wales Coast, doesn’t disappoint. Taking in the beautiful Gower Peninsula, you will cycle towards the seaport village of Pen-Clawydd, before riding through the wetland conservation area of Llanelli that’s brimming with unique birdlife. Visiting the Freshwater East Beach, the rock formations at Elegug Stakes and the peculiar stone circle at Devil’s point, your journey ends at St David’s, the smallest city in the British Isles. You’ll soon find our cycling holidays in the UK are designed to guide you towards some of the most interesting and beautiful places across the country.

Our Best Cycling Holidays in the UK

Pedal through a rural paradise, passing timeless villages and picturesque pubs on the way

Cycling

Chipping Campden in the summer c. Cotswolds Tourism

7 Days from £ 1719

Self-Guided Holidays (Excl. Flights)

Explore the Cotswolds by bike on some of the best 'off the beaten track' routes.

Cycling

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Best Types of Cycling Holidays in the UK

Self-Guided Tours: Our self-guided cycling tours in the UK are a great way to explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of this diverse country at your own pace. With a vast network of scenic routes and well-maintained cycling paths, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the British countryside while enjoying the freedom to tailor your itinerary to suit your interests and pace. Our self-guided tours also provide flexibility in terms of duration, allowing you to take breaks to explore charming villages, historic landmarks and local pubs along the way. With the best accommodations, bike hire and detailed maps provided, our self-guided cycling tours promise enriching and unforgettable experiences.

Guided Tours: Our guided cycling trips are one of the most enjoyable and insightful ways to explore the picturesque landscapes of the UK. With a variety of routes available, you’ll learn about the rich history, diverse villages and towns and the beautiful British countryside. Led by our expert guides, you’ll follow carefully planned routes filled with cultural experiences along the way. Throughout the tours you can immerse yourself in the local culture, meet friendly locals and enjoy the fresh air and scenic beauty of the UK countryside, from rolling hills and lush valleys to rugged coastlines and historic landmarks. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist looking for a challenge or a beginner wanting to ride at a more leisurely pace, our guided cycling tours provide a fantastic way to explore on two wheels.

Off Road Cycling: Off-road cycling holidays are an exhilarating and exciting way to explore the diverse landscapes of this captivating country. Feel the wind in your hair as you ride over rugged terrains, through ancient woodlands and along picturesque valleys while experiencing the ultimate adventures. From the challenging trails of the Lake District to the scenic routes of the Scottish Highlands, off-road cycling is a great experience for riders of all skill levels. As well as being both a physical and mental challenge, off-road cycling also lets you discover the natural beauty and rich history. Cycling among remote villages, ancient landmarks and windswept coastal paths gives you a unique perspective on the country’s cultural heritage.

Exploring by E-Bike: Our E-bike tours have gained popularity in the UK as they offer a perfect blend of adventure and sustainability, allowing you to navigate more hilly landscapes with ease and have minimal impact on the environment. One of the main advantages of our e-bike tours is the accessibility they provide individuals of varying fitness levels. The electric-assist feature makes it easier to tackle demanding terrains and longer distances, so they cater to a wider range of cyclists. With mile-upon-mile of diverse routes and well-maintained cycling paths in the UK, our e-bike tours in the UK encourage you to delve deeper into the region. Whether exploring the rolling hills of the Cotswolds or winding through the Scottish Highlands, you’ll cover greater distances and discover more fascinating places.

Superb Cycling Trip

Oliver Mullins Cycling in Sicily

This was managed and run by Headwater (Exodus’s sister company who runs the European cycling trips as data s I can tell.
We were both really long forward to this trip, and for the most part it was brilliant. However, there were a couple of issues… (1) This trip really needs a good level of experience in mountain biking. All the rides had long downhill sections on sometimes very loose gravel. My wife actually fell off (fortunately with minimal injury) as did one of the other couples on the trip (more serious – no more cycling for her!). This should be highlighted. (2) For some reason Headwater were unable to book direct trains as advertised, and no pre-booked seats. On the return trip, we were forced to stand for around an hour in the non-air conditioned carriage doorways in 39 degree heat (the aisles were too busy to even get in the air con parts!). This really put a downer on the trip as it was our last part of the holiday! Headwater should have booked earlier to get direct trains – or at least have booked seats!

Christopher Hewson A Taste of Tuscany Cycling

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Are your UK cycling holidays suitable for beginners?

Each of our cycling trips has been given an activity grading, which you can see in more detail on our Activity Level Guidelines page. The easy to moderate tours will be more suitable for beginners, however, you will still need a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy the tours to their fullest. As well as riding along flat and traffic-free paths, making them perfect for cyclists of all abilities, you could also be faced with some country roads and undulating tracks. Some tours might also off the option of an e-bike, which makes any hilly routes much easier to overcome.

What should I pack for a cycling holiday in the UK?

When you’re packing for a cycling holiday in the UK, it’s important to bring the essentials such as a helmet, water bottle, puncture repair kit and a map or GPS device. You’ll also want to take comfortable cycling clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, peaked cap, a waterproof jacket and plenty of snacks to keep your energy levels up during your ride. Owing to the unpredictable British weather, make sure you pack for both sunshine and rainy days because the weather reports don’t always get it right! A pair of comfortable cycling shoes is advisable as you’re likely to be covering long distances and you want to make sure you don’t get any nasty blisters.

FAQS on cycling holidays in the UK

Are cycling holidays in the UK family-friendly?

Yes, many cycling holidays in the UK are family friendly. Our self-guided cycling trips are perfect for families with children as you’ll follow well-maintained cycle paths where there are plenty of places to stop for breaks and drinks along the way. The great thing about going self-guided is that you can enjoy your holiday at your own pace, without worrying about slowing others down. There are also lots of exciting sights to explore along the routes, from ancient landmarks that teach you about the history of an area to cultural attractions that offer immersive experiences for all ages to enjoy. You can also enquire about hiring e-bikes to make things easier for younger children.

Are there guided cycling tours available in the UK?

Yes, at Exodus we offer guided group cycling tours for various levels of cyclists, which include accommodation, luggage transfers, support vehicles, some meals and route maps. This means you can focus more on enjoying the ride while everything else is taken care of. Because all our guided cycling trips are led by expert guides, you’ll discover hidden gems that are off the beaten track and learn about the history and culture of the area you’re cycling through. Very often our guides impart valuable nuggets of local information that not many would know so you’ll feel privileged being privy to such interesting facts.

What is the best time of year to go on cycling tours in the UK?

The best time for cycling trips in the UK is generally during the spring and summer months, typically from April to September. Although the UK can endure downpours at any time of year, during these months the weather is often milder with longer daylight hours and less chance of rain. This means you can enjoy more time exploring throughout the day. The landscapes are scattered with colourful flowers and lush foliage, making for really pretty views, while the warmer temperatures are great for outdoor activities such as swimming. Summer is festival season in the UK so you may come across vibrant events where you can soak in the local culture.

Can I rent a bike for UK cycling holidays?

Our UK cycling tours are a fantastic opportunity for you to explore new destinations with our top-quality bike hire. With a wide selection of bikes available, from e-bikes and road bikes to off-road bikes, you can choose the perfect ride to suit your needs. Whether you prefer a leisurely tour through quiet countryside or an exhilarating mountain biking adventure, we have something for everyone. The convenience of bike hire with Exodus means you can fully immerse yourself in the local culture and scenery as well as gaining a deeper connection with the environment.

What are the benefits of a cycling holiday in the UK?

A cycling holiday in the UK has many benefits, from its unspoilt natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage to enjoying a physical activity with friends or family. Cycling lets you venture further into the scenic landscapes of the British countryside, home to rolling hills and patchwork fields, where you can appreciate the peace and tranquility. Our tours also encourage you to explore hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations that might be missed otherwise. And because cycling is an eco-friendly and sustainable mode of travel, reducing your carbon footprint and promoting a healthier lifestyle, you can feel smug knowing that you’ve done your bit for the environment.