Family Cycling in the UK: 8 Child-Friendly Trails

You’re on holiday and eager to discover the woodlands, lakes and beautiful landscapes all around you, but the mere mention of walking anywhere elicits howls of protests from the kids. The solution? Bicycles. Family cycling is an ideal way to explore most parts of the UK: you have the freedom to go at your own pace, stopping where the mood takes you (and before hunger takes them). You can go much further and see plenty more than if you were on foot. Best of all, whether you’re in the heart of London or the wilds of the Scottish Highlands, there are plenty of cycle trails suitable for all ages and abilities.

At a glance: A mostly flat ride on coastal paths and through woodlands, with quaint cafes in the towns for refreshments. The route is shared with walkers, horse-riders and wheelchair users.

Distance: 18 miles (29 km), split into three sections – Padstow to Wadebridge, 5.5 miles (8.9 km); Wadebridge to Bodmin, 5.75 miles (9.25 km); Bodmin to Wenford Bridge, 6.25 miles (10.1 km).

Good to know: Choose the Padstow-Wadebridge trail if you’re with younger children who are unlikely to manage the entire route. You’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Camel estuary and spot wading birds on the tidal mudflats on the approach to Wadebridge. 

Route highlights: Just west of Bodmin, Camel Valley vineyard is known for their outstanding sparkling wines. Book in advance for a guided tour and tasting. 

At a glance: A paved, traffic-free trail constructed on the track bed of a former railway line between Bristol and Bath city centres, ideal for family cycling while exploring these two popular UK cities. Shared with pedestrians and disabled users.

Distance: 13 miles (21 km).

Good to know: If you’re starting in Bristol, the trail begins in Newtown Park, at the junction of Trinity Street and St Philips Road. To start from Bath, find the path entrance on Brassmill Lane on the corner of Avon Park. 

Route highlights: Discover former railway stations, including Bitton, home to a collection of restored steam locomotives. Art and sculptures by local artists and schools also decorate the trail.

At a glance: A range of off-road trails for different abilities, popular with families and mountain biking enthusiasts alike.

Distance: Various routes covering nearly 16 miles (25 km).

Good to know: For family cycling on your holiday to the UK southeast, choose the Mineral Railway Trail. Start at the Tamar Trails Centre, which also offers bike hire, and follow a gentle 3-km ride south through woodlands, learning about the area’s mining past along the way.

Route highlights: Up for a challenge? Explore the steep climbs and descents of the Wheal Maria Trail, a 5-km route with stunning Tamar Valley views.

At a glance: A reclaimed park on the site of a former colliery, with largely flat – but sometimes muddy – lakeside and woodland trails.

Distance: 3.3 miles (5.4 km).

Good to know: Although short, this route links up with other countryside sites for you to extend your family cycling adventure in the UK. Nearby Washingwell Wood is especially beautiful in spring, when it’s covered in bluebells.

Route highlights: Look out for ducks and swans on the lake, as well as sculptures around the park paying tribute to the area’s coal mining past. The cafe, on the park’s eastern border, serves delicious homemade cakes and scones.

At a glance: A relaxed, flat ride along a tiny section of the famed Caledonia Way, ideal for family cycling in the UK with young children. 

Distance: 10 miles (16 km). 

Good to know: Start in Fort William and head along the Great Glen Way to the Caledonian Canal. At Banavie station, bear northeast on the back road to loop back to Old Inverlochy Castle and Fort William.

Route highlights: Cross Banavie Swing Bridge and follow the canal north to Neptune’s Staircase, where you’ll be greeted by the impressive view of a flight of locks, plus seasonal shops and cafes.

At a glance: Firm gravel trail that’s mostly wide, but with some uneven and steep sections, passing the shores of Loch Ard, Little Loch Ard and Lochan a’ Ghleannin.

Distance: 4.3 miles (6.7 km).

Good to know: This circular trail starts and ends at Loch Ard car park, taking a signposted route through native oak and birch forest and yielding expansive views of shimmering lakes.

Route highlights: Look out for woodland sculptures including a mirrored eagle, red squirrels fighting the greys, and a leaping fish.

At a glance: A linear, traffic-free route that’s flat and smooth, with waterfront views, stops for refreshments and family fun including a dry ski slope in Pembrey Country Park.

Distance: 13.5 miles (22 km).

Good to know: The whole route stretches from Bynea to Pembrey Country Park, but a good starting point for a shorter, 7.2-km trip is from Llanelli. From this market town, you can also pick up the cycle trail south towards the Loughor Estuary, dropping into the Llanelli Wetland Centre to marvel at their flock of pink flamingos.

Route highlights: Stop in the coastal village of Pwll for tea and a slice of cake, before continuing on the path to Burry Port, where you’ll find a pretty marina with a small 19th-century lighthouse.

At a glance: A traffic-free trail following the line of the old Mumbles tramway, with breathtaking coastal views of Swansea Bay.

Distance: 5.8 miles (9.3 km).

Good to know: There are plenty of places to stop along the way for refreshments, including ice cream shops and gastropubs. In hot weather, you may want to cool off at Blackpill Lido, where the kids will love the paddling pools and splash areas.

Route highlights: As you approach Mumbles, look out for mesmerising views of 12th-century Oystermouth Castle, an atmospheric stone ruin sitting atop a limestone ridge.

• Many of these cycle routes are traffic-free, but shared with pedestrians and disabled people. Show consideration for other users by passing them slowly and carefully, warning them with your bell or with a friendly “Excuse me!” if necessary.
• If you’re cycling on roads, stay safe by wearing helmets and high-vis clothing. Follow the Highway Code rules for cyclists.  
• It’s illegal in the UK for children to cycle on the pavement, but most people turn a blind eye to younger children (under age 10) doing so. If your child does use the pavement to cycle, make sure they’re supervised and being considerate.

Cycling really is a fantastic way to build some physical activity into your UK family holiday while having fun and making memories. Happy pedalling!