The best road cycling routes in Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve

There are over 450 road cycling routes in and around Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.

The terrain for road cycling in the reserve and its surroundings is quite varied. While the deepest parts of the ancient woodlands have unsealed paths unsuitable for road bikes, there are dedicated paved routes. You'll find flatter sections, particularly around the Ruislip Lido, as well as routes with moderate to significant elevation gain through the surrounding countryside.

The routes cater to a range of abilities. Out of over 450 routes, 183 are considered easy, 247 are moderate, and 25 are more difficult, featuring significant climbs. This ensures options for beginners and experienced cyclists alike.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the popular Windsor Castle – Windsor Castle loop from Northwood is a moderate 34-mile circular trail.

The reserve is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle past the tranquil Ruislip Lido with its sandy beach, or explore the edges of the extensive ancient woodlands like Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve itself. In spring, you might even catch magnificent displays of bluebells.

While the primary focus is natural beauty, the woods have historical significance, with timber used for structures like the Tower of London centuries ago. You might also encounter the Ruislip Youth War Memorial Chapel, a notable man-made monument within the area.

Yes, Ruislip Lido features a dedicated 2.6 km (1.6 mile) asphalt path around the lake that is suitable for road cycling. It's a popular spot for a leisurely ride and offers scenic views of the water.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 400 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the peaceful stretches through the countryside, and the well-maintained paved surfaces that allow for enjoyable rides, such as the Penn Village – Gorelands Lane loop from Northwood Hills.

Yes, there are places to stop for refreshments. The Ruislip Lido has a lakeside café, and you might find other cafes or pubs in nearby villages and towns that many routes pass through, such as the Le Camping de la Plage Café.

Absolutely. The 2.6 km asphalt path around Ruislip Lido is particularly suitable for families due to its flat, paved surface and scenic environment. Additionally, there are many easy-rated routes (183 in total) that offer gentler rides suitable for various family members.

Spring and summer are generally ideal for road cycling, offering pleasant weather and the chance to see the woodlands in full bloom, including bluebells in spring. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery with changing leaf colors. While winter cycling is possible, be mindful of colder temperatures and potentially wet conditions.

Yes, the routes are designed to showcase various parts of the region. For instance, the Slade Oak Lane – Ashridge Lane and Horse Hill loop from Northwood leads through varied landscapes, giving you a taste of different areas surrounding the ancient woodlands.