This 'green and pleasant land' of England is home to vast swathes of rolling countryside, hills, moors, woodland and coast that are perfect for a leisurely cycling holiday, interspersed with stays in traditional hotels and visits to local pubs. For those who like more of a challenge, the more rugged scenery of areas like the Peak District, the Lakes and Dartmoor offer plenty of opportunities for more ambitious mountain biking in places that still truly feel wild. The Department for Transport has a handy website offering advice on how to make the most of cycling in England, and below are some of the best cycling holidays on offer in the country:
This four-day holiday begins in Winchester and covers 102 miles of breathtaking mountain biking along the South Downs Way - the ridge and undulating countryside between Winchester and Eastbourne.
£425 - based on two people sharing
4 Days
2010: 30 Apr - 03 May, 28 - 31 May, 27 - 30 May, 24 - 27 Sep
One of our tougher UK mountain bike weekends in prime mountain biking country - located at the start of the Pennines, with Kinder Scout and Mam Tour looking on, we'll be in the heart of the Dark Peak.
Our most challenging road cycling weekend in the Lake District; tackling 6 passes over 122 miles in 2 days. We’ve introduced this trip with climbers and experienced riders in mind and it will suit anyone who likes their riding on the tough side.
This trip is located in the Northern Lakes close to Penrith, which is the perfect setting for this ever popular beginners weekend. Our routes take us to the foot of the Pennines, through the Eden Valley and around Lowther Castle and Helton Fell.
The ultimate Great British cycling challenge - that really is the only way to describe our Land’s End to John O’Groats epic. Every cyclist should make this journey at least once in their lifetime! Over 1000 miles, through 3 countries in just 16 days.
There are stunning views of the Northern Lakes throughout this trip and whilst there are some 'cheeky climbs' and technical sections during the weekend, it's not too daunting for those with limited off-road experience or for of a reasonable fitness.
This mountain biking trip, which encapsulates the best off road riding in the south-west of England, is a must for anyone looking for a place to place mountain bike adventure.
A great weekend of road cycling through the ever lovely Shropshire countryside. You’ll have the opportunity to ride in a small bunch, learn the tricks of the trade, and get to ride in some of England’s finest scenery too.
Gentle cycling through the beautiful Shropshire countryside to visit the 'Slow food' capital Ludlow, Church Sterron's 'Little Switzerland', Bishops Castle's famous brewery pubs, and a multitude of historic sites.
Discover the Welsh Marches, Black Mountains and river valleys of Shropshire and Radnorshire on this relaxed cycling tour, with easy cycling between picture postcard villages, beautiful countryside, and a multitude of historic sites to explore.