Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or have only recently decided to get back in the saddle, National Bike Week could be the perfect excuse.

This annual event, held from 9 to 15 June in 2025, celebrates all things cycling and aims to showcase its benefits while making it more fun and accessible.

Aside from the obvious health benefits, cycling can offer a peaceful way to explore the British countryside and spend time with others.

We’re no strangers to cycling adventures here at Optimum Path, too. In fact, Alasdair, our managing director, tackled one of these routes himself last summer (more on that later).

So, to celebrate the national event, continue reading to discover six of the most scenic cycling trails across the UK.

1. The Camel Trail in Cornwall

If you’re searching for a relaxed ride, then the Camel Trail in Cornwall could be for you.

Running for 18 miles along a disused railway line, this mostly flat route stretches from Padstow to Bodmin, going through Wadebridge.

This trail cuts through some of Cornwall’s most stunning scenery, including wooded valleys, open estuaries, and the foothills of Bodmin Moor.

There are plenty of lovely places to stop for a coffee or a quick bite to eat along the way, too.

2. Watermead Country Park in Leicester

Another gentler ride, but one that still has plenty of natural beauty along the way, is Watermead Country Park, found just outside Leicester.

The park is filled with lakes, wetlands, and woodlands, and there are shorter looped routes here that are ideal for either a quick cycle or a longer day.

Make sure to keep an eye out for the wide range of wildlife, including herons, swans, and kingfishers.

The paths are well-maintained, too, so this could be a good choice if you want a traffic-free cycle in breathtaking surroundings.

3. The “Way of the Roses” between Morecambe and Bridlington

If you’re up for a challenge, the “Way of the Roses”, which stretches from Morecambe on the west coast to Bridlington on the east, could be a rewarding long-distance cycle.

It passes through some of the most stunning parts of Lancashire and Yorkshire, including the Forest of Bowland, the Yorkshire Dales, and the Vale of York.

Due to the trail’s 170-mile length, you might opt to split the route into sections; otherwise, you will have to dedicate three to five days to the ride.

While difficult, it can be done, as our managing director and Chartered financial planner, Alasdair Walker, has proven.

In June 2024, he completed the trail in aid of the Loughborough Area Food Bank.

With more than 2,250 metres of climbing, the Way of the Roses is no small feat, but an unforgettable and rewarding experience.

4. The Settle to Clapham Loop in Yorkshire

For something slightly shorter, the loop between Settle and Clapham – both in the Yorkshire Dales –offers glorious scenery and the chance to take things at your own pace.

The 18-mile trail is a moderately challenging ride, featuring a mix of climbs and descents, and passing through limestone scenery, sleepy stone villages, and along riverside tracks.

You could stop in Clapham for a quick coffee before making your way back to Settle.

5. The Two Castles Loop in Alnwick

Both starting and ending in Alnwick, the Two Castles Loop takes you through the beautiful Northumberland countryside.

As the name suggests, you’ll pass by two historic castles along the way. The 23-mile circular route connects Alnwick Castle and Warkworth Castle, two fortresses that are steeped in history.

As you pedal through the countryside, you’ll be rewarded with views of the River Aln and the sweeping coastline.

6. The Trans Pennine Trail, North of England

The Trans Pennine Trail is another route that stretches from coast to coast along the north of England, this time from Southport to Hornsea.

Originally developed in the 1980s and 1990s, the trail – which crosses the Pennines, the range of hills often called the “backbone of England” – was designed to link existing paths.

The impressive 215-mile route might seem daunting at first glance, but you can split it into more manageable sections, so you don’t have to commit to the entire thing.

Although the trail crosses the Pennines, the route is actually surprisingly gentle in many sections. These sections generally follow disused railway lines and canal paths and are relatively flat, making them accessible for people of varying abilities and ages.

That said, there are trickier sections, especially near the Peak District, so you may want to avoid these sections if you want an easier ride.