Holidaymakers are being urged to get on their bikes during a staycation and enjoy some of the nation's best cycling routes.
Raleigh, one of the best-known names in cycling, has put together a guide to the top destinations for biking holidays in the UK. The list ranks cycle routes based on distance, average summer temperature and even the number of pubs.
The number one route is the Scarborough to Whitby coastal cycle path, which boasts an incredible 51 pubs along its 21.7 miles. It is one of four routes in Yorkshire and the Humber to make the list.
South East England dominates the rankings, with eight entries, including three in the top 10. Wales, South West England and the East Midlands each have four routes in the top 30.
Chris Palmer, head of digital at Raleigh, said: “We’ve always been a nation of bike enthusiasts, but recent lockdowns have really increased our passion for cycling.
"There are so many beautiful cycle routes across the UK, so it’s the perfect option for families, couples, or solo travellers. As domestic travel restrictions are lifted, people will be itching to get out in the fresh air and explore, and cycle routes offer a safe and environmentally-friendly option.
"Taking distance, nearby accommodation and, of course, the number of pubs on the route into account, this list provides a bit of inspiration for 2021 travels. The spread of regions really does show how much the UK has to offer as a holiday destination.”
Mike Carden, from bikeridemaps.co.uk, added: “Cycling holidays look set to skyrocket this year with limited travel abroad. The UK’s cycle paths offer a great opportunity for getting outdoors and seeing more of the country.
"Where we are lagging behind a little is in charging stations - compared to mainland Europe we really don’t have provision for the rising number of e-bike riders to charge on the go. As e-bikes continue to grow in popularity, I think we’ll see an investment and increase in the number of dedicated charging points across the country.”
Government figures show that cycling increased by 200 per cent during lockdown, so making the most of the UK’s dedicated cycle routes is a great way to continue this resurging national pastime.
With more people turning to sustainable transport and a more eco-friendly lifestyle, cycling and e-biking holidays look set to be a huge star of the staycation market.
The top 10 UK cycling holiday routes are:
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Scarborough to Whitby - Yorkshire and the Humber
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Marriott’s Way - East of England
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Viking Coastal Trail - South East
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London Docklands and Lea Valley - South East
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Birmingham to Wolverhampton - West Midlands
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Derby Canal Path and Cloud Trail - East Midlands
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Route 622 (Preston Guild Wheel) - North West
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Route 221 - South East
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Consett and Sunderland Railway Path - North East
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The University Way - East of England
To learn more about cycle routes featured on the list, visit: https://www.raleigh.co.uk/gb/en/cycling-advice/uk-cycling-staycations/
