From Coastlines to Castles: Biking Great Britain
If you’re looking for an ideal place to explore on two wheels, the Great British countryside has everything you need. With the rate of exchange firmly in your favor, it’s a good time to seize a bargain and explore miles of rugged coastlines, lush green valleys and charming lakes at your own pace. Biking is always a great way to move freely among local people, experiencing gems that are off the tourist trail, so whether you want a wee dram of whisky in the Scottish Highlands, or a traditional Cornish afternoon tea with freshly baked scones, there’s a route for everyone.
A Royal welcome
Of course, England is home to world-famous Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, but given that some 15 million tourists a year are drawn to the Palace alone, you’ll need to set course away from the crowds and hit the open road. Head South West, passing Glastonbury - scene of the iconic music festival - and across the top of Exmoor National Park for one of the most uninterrupted coastal runs in the country. Sip tea in quaint Devonshire villages, continue down the coast through Cornwall for King Arthur’s Castle at Tintagel, surfers’ paradise in Newquay and celebrate your arrival at Lands End. Although the terrain is all pretty smooth, this is around 200 miles of riding, so a comfortable bike designed for longer journeys would be wise choice.
Whisky and whale watching
For those who prefer a rugged, slightly colder landscape, Scotland has plenty of roguish charm. Take the North Coast route; a 500 mile round trip from Inverness. The road over the Pass of the Cattle into Applecross is famed among UK bikers, but the NC500 also takes in the famous Glenmorangie distillery, a chance to spot the infamous Loch Ness monster (or, more likely, whales and dolphins in the sea), and plenty of castles and battle-fields along the way.
Wales
If you’re hoping for something a little quieter, Wales has stunning views and idyllic roads to enjoy on two wheels. The A4069, also known as the Black Mountain Pass, is popular and can get busy over the summer, but is worth doing if you can. For natural beauty, it doesn’t get much better than the Brecon Beacons mountain range and on to the beautiful Devil's Bridge Falls.
While the dollar is strong against the British pound sterling, it’s the ideal time to hit the open road and explore all that the island of Britain has to offer. Each area offers different types of stunning natural beauty, friendly locals and hearty food. If you’re still thirsty for more adventure, why not take your bike over on the ferry to Northern Ireland and keep on riding? A warm welcome awaits.
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