Traffic-free cycle routes suitable for families 

If you’re looking for a good place to go for a day out cycling with the kids, then here are a few ideas to get you started.  Most places listed offer some traffic-free cycle routes that are suitable for riders of all ages and abilities – check each location to ensure there are trails suitable for the age and experience of your children.

Cycle Sprog family-friendly cycle routes: our collection of routes, as recommended by our readers. Either click the link or navigate to the “Let’s Cycle” menu button at the top of the page.  They are all mainly traffic free or on very quiet roads.

Forestry Commission: forests are some of the best places to go cycling with children, and a favourite route is worth visiting throughout the year to enjoy the changing seasons. The Forestry Commission site has full details of cycling routes at each of their locations, and whether bike rental is available.  See the Forestry Commission England and Forestry Commission Scotland websites for more details.

7-Stanes:  In Scotland there are eight great Forestry Commission locations that act as hubs for off road trail riding and mountain biking. Routes do vary from easy greens through to extreme black routes, so check each location to see which is suitable for your family.

National Cycle Network:  much of Sustran’s network is great for cycling with the family, as it is traffic-free and follows disused railways, tracks and paths. Do watch out for sudden on-road stretches on many routes, and if using a trailer you may be hindered by all the barriers in place on many routes. Enter your postcode in the Sustran’s mapping tool, and it will show your nearest routes.

National Trust: the Trust are working to increase the number of family friendly cycle routes and events at the properties and on their land.

Cyclo-cross: if you fancy getting into cycle racing, then cyclo-cross is a great way for all the family to get involved. Usually running during the muddy winter months, it can be a great way to keep cycling all year round.

Other posts you may like:

• Family friendly cycle routes
• Family bike rides – top 10
• Top tips for hiring bikes for all the family
• Riding in an U8 cyclo-cross league race
• 12 things you need to know before buying a kids bike