10 of the UK's best cycle trails for families

Going on bike rides is a great way to spend time together as a family, get exercise and explore the UK countryside. However, you have to be very selective on the type of trails you choose, to make sure that it is suitable for your family.

You need to choose routes that are safe and traffic-free, as well as being appropriate for the people who will be pedalling, with other bonuses such as nice scenery and good spots for picnics or cafes etc.

When it comes to cycle trails in the UK for families, the one’s on this list can’t be beaten:

Exe Estuary Trail

The Exe Estuary Trail runs along the banks of the Exe Estuary from Dawlish to Exmouth in South Devon and winds through some quaint villages. The route is mostly flat and you can do the full 22.5-mile circular route, or you can take a ferry across the estuary to shorten the ride. The majority of the trail is off-road and ideal for young cyclists or carrying infants in bike seats.

Chester Railway Path

Some of the most family-friendly routes run along disused railway paths and the Chester Railway Path stretches 7 miles from Chester city centre to Connah’s Quay, taking in some beautiful sights.

The Millennium Coastal Path, Wales

For some spectacular coastal views, this trail starts at the Discovery Centre in Llanelli, following the coastal path around Pembrey Forest. The route is 4.5 miles long and you can extend the ride if you want to, by choosing another trail through the forest.

Dalby Forest

If you are looking for some shorter routes that younger children should be able to easily manage, Dalby Forest in Yorkshire is home to the Ellerburn Trail, which gives you the option of a 1.7-mile loop or a 2.8-mile route.

Forest of Dean Family Trail

The Forest of Dean is a popular destination for families, as it has some great trails in picturesque Gloucestershire. The Family Trail is ideal for an easy ride, following an old mining railway along a well-surfaced path. The route is fairly flat and there are lots of other tracks in the forest to try if you want to extend your ride.

The Camel Trail

Cornwall is renowned for its coast and stunning beaches, but it is also a favourite destination for cyclists as well as watersports fans. The Camel Trail runs along 18 miles of coastal and woodland trails, although you can easily choose a shorter route such as Padstow to Wadebridge (5.5 miles).

Richmond Park

You don’t have to head into the wilderness to find a family-friendly cycle route, as there are lots of parks around the UK that are perfect for safe cycling. In London, Richmond Park offers a complete traffic-free route and you can combine the ride with a fun visit to London Wetland Centre.

Argyll Forest Park, Scotland

In the Scottish Highlands, Argyll Forest Park was the first ever UK forest park to be created and it is now a very popular location for hikers and cyclists. There are some beautiful waterfalls in the park and plenty of scenic cycle trails that are suitable for a mix of abilities.

Swansea Bike Path

In South Wales, there is a lovely coastal route that runs from Swansea city centre and along the coast of Swansea Bay. The route is 100% traffic-free and is just under 6 miles long. Try to avoid a very windy day, as it can be very breezy but is worth it for the stunning views of the peninsula.

Marriott’s Way

East Anglia has a great selection of family-friendly cycle routes and the disused train line between Norwich and the Bure Valley offers a scenic, traffic-free route that spans 26 miles. The first 8 miles has a paved surface, so this is the best section for children who are cycling. 

If you are just getting started with cycling as a family, or you want to take your bikes on your UK staycation, the one essential accessory you will need is a good quality cycle carrier. When choosing your carrier, think about how many bikes you will be carrying both now and in the near future, as well as which part of the vehicle you want to mount the cycle carrier.

PF Jones has an extensive range of cycle carriers to suit all vehicles and mounting options, so find the right one for your family adventures at our online store.