Bike rides for beginners

We care for lots of places across the country perfect for a bike ride. From cruising along the flat routes of Wicken Fen to tackling the slightly more challenging hills and valleys of the Langdale Pikes in Cumbria, there’s something to suit everyone on a local cycle route.

We’ve come up with some of the best places for aspiring new cyclists to pedal around in the great outdoors, routes that are perfect for little legs – and longer ones too. Why not find a route near you and see how much fun cycling can be?

Visiting this winter 

In England and Northern Ireland, our gardens, parks and countryside sites remain open for local people to exercise. Shops, houses and other indoor areas are closed, and cafés are takeaway only. The safety of our staff, volunteers and visitors from the nearby community remains our priority and we urge you to book your visits in advance and stay local. All places in Wales are currently closed. Please check the property webpage before you travel.

More information on what’s open
A family enjoying an Autumn bike ride through Castle Ward, Co. Down.

Castle Ward, County Down 

At Castle Ward, the Shore Trail is ideal for beginner cyclists and has great views of the lough. It's an easy route and should take less than half an hour to explore. If you're in need for sea breezes and a short and sweet cycle ride, this is the one for you.

Explore the Shore Trail
Children cycling near Stackpole
Cycling

Mortehoe, near Ilfracombe, Devon 

It might not be the Tour de France, but this easy cycle ride is a perfect way for you to try out your pedal power. You'll start on a quiet road, before following a private lane to Bull Point, a rocky headland.

Enjoy views of the Devon coast by bike
A cyclist on Compton Down, heading for Freshwater Bay seen in the distance
Cycling

Mottistone Estate, Isle of Wight 

Cycle on and off-road with us from Mottistone to Compton Bay and back, along one the best chalk ridge cycling routes in Britain.

Get on your bike and explore West Wight
Two people cycling through the countryside
Cycling

Sticklebarn and the Langdales, Cumbria 

This 11-mile trail takes you through varied scenery of meadow, woodland, slate quarry and eventually along a riverside path from Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge. Explore the valley to enjoy the far-reaching views.

Enjoy awe-inspiring views of the Langdale Pikes
A family exploring the Dragon Cycle Trail at Wallington, Northumberland
Cycling

Wallington, Northumberland 

Exploring the wider Wallington estate is fun to do on the Dragon cycle trail, even if you're just starting out on your bike. Pedal through woodland and Broom House Farm’s fields and enjoy a peaceful exploration of Northumberland.

Check out the trail
Visitors cycling at Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve, Cambridgeshire
Cycling

Wicken Fen, Cambridgeshire 

Improve your cycling confidence in the flattest part of the English countryside. This eight mile cycle route between Wicken Fen and Anglesey Abbey allows you to enjoy a section of the National Cycle Network route 11. If you're new to cycling, you can do as much or as little as you like of this fun trail.

Get cycling at Wicken Fen