The best traffic-free bike rides in England

Komoot offers over 3000 routes for traffic-free cycling in England, with more than 500 specifically rated as easy. These trails range from gentle paths suitable for beginners and families to more challenging routes for experienced gravel riders, all designed to keep you away from vehicle traffic.

England boasts several fantastic regions for traffic-free gravel biking. The Peak District is a hotspot with routes like the Monsal, Tissington, and High Peak Trails. Kielder Forest in Northumberland is renowned for its extensive network of unpaved forest paths. The New Forest offers quiet paths through woodlands, and the South Downs National Park features the iconic South Downs Way, a long-distance gravel route. The North York Moors also provides new Gravel Explorer routes.

Yes, England offers several excellent long-distance options. The 160-kilometer South Downs Way in the South Downs National Park is a celebrated route with chalky paths and ridge-top views. Another notable option is the Peddars Way in Norfolk, an old Roman road stretching from Hunstanton to Thetford Forest, recognized as a great bikepacking route. The King Alfred's Way is also a popular choice for extended gravel adventures.

For families, the New Forest is an excellent choice with its quiet paths and beautiful woodlands. The 12-mile Swale Trail in the Yorkshire Dales is also family-friendly. Many disused railway lines, such as sections of the Monsal Trail in the Peak District, offer flat, traffic-free surfaces perfect for all ages. The Derwent Dams area in the Peak District also provides a scenic 40km gravel route suitable for families.

Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, the high Peak and White Peak areas of the Peak District offer more demanding gravel routes, including sections of the Pennine Bridleway and the Limestone Way. The South Downs Way also features steep climbs. In the North York Moors, routes like the Hambleton Horizons loop mix fast moorland gravel with challenging climbs. For a taste of this, consider the Shatton Moor & Ladybower Reservoir loop from Hathersage.

Yes, many regions offer fantastic circular routes. In the Peak District, the Ladybower Reservoir loop from Bamford is a popular choice. Kielder Forest features the Kielder Water loop from Kielder Castle. The New Forest has options like the Three village circular. These routes allow you to start and finish in the same location without retracing your steps.

England's gravel trails often pass through stunning natural landscapes. You might encounter dramatic mountains and serene lakes in the Lake District, limestone outcrops and dry stone walls in the Yorkshire Dales, or rolling countryside and sea views in the South Downs. Some routes might even lead you past unique geological features like Lud's Church or Thor's Cave, offering a chance to explore caves and gorges.

The best time to gravel bike in England is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is milder and drier. However, many routes, especially those in forests like the New Forest or Kielder, can be enjoyable even in colder, wetter conditions, offering a different kind of adventure. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

The Peak District is excellent for traffic-free gravel. The Monsal Trail, Tissington Trail, and High Peak Trail, which follow old railway lines, are particularly popular for their smooth surfaces and scenic views. For a combined experience, consider the Monsal and High Peak trails gravel loop, offering a longer adventure through the heart of the national park.

The komoot community highly rates the traffic-free gravel routes in England, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the peace and quiet away from roads, and the variety of terrain that caters to all skill levels. The well-maintained paths and the opportunity to explore diverse landscapes, from ancient woodlands to dramatic coastlines, are frequently highlighted as major draws.

Generally, most public bridleways and byways in England are open to cyclists without a permit. However, some specific areas, especially within National Parks or private estates, might have local regulations or require permits for certain trails. It's always advisable to check the local authority or park website for the specific area you plan to ride in, especially for designated mountain bike trails or sensitive ecological zones.

Many popular gravel routes in England are accessible via public transport, particularly those in National Parks like the Peak District or South Downs. Routes that follow disused railway lines often have trailheads near former stations, which can be served by buses or trains. Planning your route with public transport in mind can enhance your car-free experience, allowing you to start and finish at different points.