If you’re looking for a great day out with your friends then look no further. Whatever you’re interested in, the National Cycle Network can take you there. And when you travel by foot or bike the journey will be as fun as the destination.
The National Cycle Network is a great day out whether food, culture or nature is your thing.
For foodiesÌý
TheÌýGlasgow Waterways LoopÌýtakes you on a great tour of the city, starting and finishing at Speirs Wharf.Ìý
Ìýon Great Western Road is a slight detour from the route but well worth it. Offering modern Scottish cuisine since 2006, it has won many awards including Entertainment Awards Scotland's Best Restaurant in 2013 and 2014 and has featured in The Sunday Times 100 Best British Restaurants.ÌýÌý
Culture vulturesÌý
If you like art thenÌýBaltic to Bill Quay cycle routeÌýis perfect.Ìý
The route starts and finishes at the BALTIC, a major international centre for contemporary art housed in a landmark industrial building on the south bank of the River Tyne.
Bird loversÌý
The Barnsley to Old Moor RSPB ReserveÌýis the perfect route for bird watchers and nature lovers alike.
The largely traffic-free route takes you from Barnsley Train Station before taking you on a traffic-free path to the RSPB reserve where you can spot a diverse range of wildlife and birds while enjoying some alfresco dining at the cafe.Ìý
When you travel by foot or bike the journey will be as fun as the destination.
PicnickersÌý
While the weather in the UK doesn't always permit it, there's nothing nicer than heading out for a picnic.
The Forest WayÌýtakes you from East Grinstead to Groombridge and is used by cyclists, walkers and horse riders. The tree-lined path cuts through the picturesque East Sussex countryside, with there being an array of wildlife to marvel at along your travels.ÌýThere's also plenty of seats and picnic benches along the way to take a breather and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.ÌýÌý
Fashion fans
TheÌýSheffield to Rotherham (via Meadowhall)Ìýroute takes you between two of South Yorkshire’s main urban areas along the canal and the River Don Valley.
It passes the shopping mecca of Meadowhall along the way where you can shop to your heart’s content.
City slickersÌý
If you’re a hip city slicker, then theÌýLondon Docklands and Lea ValleyÌýride through East London is perfect.Ìý
Taking you through some of the area’s best-loved green spaces including Hackney Marshes, there are lots of cafes and pubs along the way.
Seek out London's best spots on the National Cycle Network.
Sports fansÌý
Whether you like rugby or football, a visit to the Liberty Stadium in Swansea is a must.Ìý
Home to the Ospreys and Swansea City FC theÌýSwansea Valley cycle rideÌýtakes you right past its front gates.Ìý
Adrenaline junkiesÌý
TheÌýAfan Valley routeÌýtravels between Port Talbot and the gorgeousÌýÌýin south Wales.
With world-class mountain bike trails, you can really test your mettle. Don't worry if you turn up on a road bike, there are bikes available for rent there.
Afterwards, make sure you kick back with a cold drink from the café and soak up the amazing panoramic views.
Get more ideas for great days out from ourÌýwalking and cycling inspiration orÌýfind a route near you.Ìý