Hey there, fellow explorers! Dan here from Bike Hire UK. There’s honestly nothing quite like the feeling of the wind in your face and a stunning view unfolding in front of you while you’re pedaling away. We get asked all the time: “Dan, where are the best places to ride that aren’t just the usual tourist traps?”
Well, you’ve come to the right place. The UK is absolutely packed with hidden gems, trails that feel like a secret handshake between you and nature. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or someone who hasn’t been on a saddle since school, hiring a bike is the easiest way to dive into these adventures without the faff of roof racks or muddy car boots.
We’ve hand picked our favorite 10 scenic routes where you can easily find bicycles for hire nearby. Trust me, it’ll be worth it!
1. The Camel Trail, Cornwall
Let’s start with a classic that never gets old. The Camel Trail follows a disused railway line from Padstow to Wenford Bridge. It’s mostly flat, which is a massive win if you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon.
The stretch between Padstow and Wadebridge is the one everyone knows (and for good reason, the estuary views are breathtaking), but if you want a bit more peace and quiet, head past Wadebridge toward Bodmin. You’ll find yourself surrounded by lush woodland and birdlife. Plus, there are plenty of spots for the obligatory photo of the Cornish coast. It’s a spectacular way to earn that afternoon cream tea!
2. The Monsal Trail, Derbyshire
Nestled in the heart of the Peak District, the Monsal Trail is a bit of a legend. What makes it special? The tunnels! They’ve recently restored several old railway tunnels (some are about 400 meters long!) and they’re lit up during the day.
Riding through a cool, echoing tunnel and popping out onto a massive viaduct with views of the River Wye is a surreal experence. It’s totally traffic-free, making it perfect for families. If you’re looking to get out there, check out our bike range to see what kind of wheels suit your style before you head out to the Peaks.
3. The Tarka Trail, Devon
Inspired by the classic novel Tarka the Otter, this route is one of the longest continuous traffic-free paths in the country. It’s over 30 miles of pure North Devon bliss.
The section around Barnstaple is spectacular, following the coast and then heading inland through ancient woodland and salt marshes. It’s very flat (thanks again, old railways!), so you can really focus on the scenery rather than catching your breath. We recommend stopping at one of the old station cafes along the way for a slice of cake, it’s practicaly a rule of cycling.
4. The Phoenix Trail, Oxfordshire
If you’re looking for something a bit more “arty,” the Phoenix Trail between Thame and Princes Risborough is amazing. It’s a short, 7-mile stretch but it’s packed with 30 different sculptures made from old railway sleepers.
Keep your eyes peeled for Red Kites soaring overhead, they’re quite common in this part of the world. It’s a great little route if you’ve only got a few hours and want something that feels like a hidden escape from the hustle and bustle.
5. The Peregrine Path, Monmouthshire
This one is a bit of a hidden gem straddling the border between England and Wales. Starting in Monmouth and following the River Wye to Symonds Yat, the Peregrine Path offers some of the most stunning river scenery in the UK.
You’ll ride under towering limestone cliffs and through deep wooded valleys. It’s called the Peregrine Path because you might actually spot Peregrine Falcons nesting on the cliffs at Symonds Yat Rock. It’s a short ride, but the payoff in terms of views is huge!
6. Marriott’s Way, Norfolk
Norfolk isn’t as flat as everyone says, but Marriott’s Way is a pretty gentle ride that takes you from the city of Norwich right out into the heart of the countryside at Reepham and Aylsham.
It’s 26 miles of “green corridor” where you’ll feel miles away from any city. The trail is thick with trees and wildlife, keep an eye out for deer and owls if you’re riding late in the afternoon. It’s a wonderful way to see the “real” Norfolk that most tourists miss.
7. South Downs Way (The Chalky Challenge)
Okay, this one is for those of you who want a bit of a challenge. The South Downs Way runs for 100 miles from Winchester to Eastbourne. While doing the whole thing is a mission, jumping on a section of it, like the stretch near Devil’s Dyke, is breathtaking.
The views from the top of the chalk ridges are spectacular, looking out over the Weald and down to the sea. It can be a bit bumpy, so make sure you’ve got a sturdy mountain bike for hire. If you’re planning a big group ride or a corporate away day here, our event hire service can get everything sorted for you so you just have to turn up and pedal.
8. The Cuckoo Trail, East Sussex
Following another old railway line (seeing a pattern here?), the Cuckoo Trail runs through the beautiful Wealden countryside. It’s named after the old Cuckoo Line railway, and it’s a lovely, sheltered route through oak forests and wildflower meadows.
It’s super friendly for all ages and has plenty of benches and picnic spots. It’s one of those trails where you can just switch off your brain and enjoy the rhythm of the ride.
9. The Great Glen Way (Canal Side), Scotland
If you find yourself up north, the section of the Great Glen Way that follows the Caledonian Canal is stunning. Starting near Fort Augustus, you can ride along the flat towpaths with the massive mountains of the Highlands towering over you.
It’s a great way to see the scale of Scotland without having to climb a Munro! The water is crystal clear, and the atmosphere is incredibly peaceful. It’s definitely a bucket-list route for any bike hire fan.
10. Forest of Dean Family Trail, Gloucestershire
Last but certainly not least, the Forest of Dean. The Family Trail is a circular 11-mile route that takes you deep into the ancient forest. It’s safe, mostly level, and the canopy of trees makes it feel like you’re in a different world.
There are plenty of “hidden” spots to stop by the ponds or explore old mining works. It’s the perfect place to test out some of the latest gear. If you’re a regular rider, you might want to check out Bikestock for some of our top-tier components before your next forest adventure.
Practical Tips for Hiring a Bike
Before you head off to these amazing trails, here are a few “pro tips” from our years in the business to make sure your day goes smoothly:
- Book Ahead: Especially in the summer months, bike hire spots at places like the Camel Trail or Monsal Trail get booked up fast. Use our booking page to secure your ride early if you’re coming to see us!
- Check the Weather: It sounds obvious, but a scenic route can quickly become a “muddy slog” if the heavens open. Pack a light waterproof, even in July!
- Know Your Limits: Most of these routes are flat-ish, but the South Downs Way will test your legs. Pick a route that matches your fitness so you actually enjoy the scenery rather than just staring at your front wheel.
- Ask for Advice: Don’t be shy! When you pick up your hire bike, ask the staff for their favorite “hidden” stop. They usually know the best cafe that isn’t on the map.
Why Hire Instead of Bring Your Own?
You might be thinking, “Dan, why shouldn’t I just bring my old bike from the shed?” Well, hiring gives you the chance to try out modern, well-maintained equipment. Plus, it saves you the stress of fitting a rack to your car and worrying about security if you stop for lunch.
We take pride in making sure every bike we send out is in top-notch condition. You get to focus on the “breathtaking” views while we handle the “boring” maintenance.
Ready to Roll?
The UK has so much more to offer than just busy roads and city commutes. These trails are waiting for you to discover them. Whether it’s the tunnels of Derbyshire or the coastal air of Cornwall, there’s a perfect ride out there with your name on it.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab a helmet, pack some snacks, and get out there and explore! Trust me, it’s all worth it once you see that first view.
Enjoy riding your bike! 🚲✨
If you’ve got any questions or want to share a hidden trail you’ve found, feel free to reach out to us. We love hearing about your adventures. Happy cycling!