Cycling in the North Cotswolds is an excellent way to experience the beautiful English countryside, rolling hills, and picturesque villages that make this region so special. With a range of cycling routes and quiet country lanes, the North Cotswolds offers something for cyclists of all abilities.
One of the most popular routes in the area is the Cotswold Line Cycle Route, which follows the railway line from Oxford to Worcester. This route is perfect for those looking for a leisurely ride, as it takes in some of the most beautiful countryside in the region. The route passes through the charming market town of Chipping Norton, the quaint village of Kingham, and the picturesque town of Moreton-in-Marsh, which has a number of great pubs and cafes for a well-earned break.
For those seeking a more challenging ride, the North Cotswolds has plenty of hills to test your cycling skills. The Broadway Tower Loop is a challenging 50-mile route that takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the region. The route starts and finishes in the charming village of Broadway, taking in the famous Broadway Tower and offering spectacular views over the surrounding countryside.
Another great route is the Bourton Loop, a 45-mile ride that takes you through some of the most picturesque villages in the North Cotswolds, including Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Lower Slaughter. The route is relatively flat, making it a good option for those looking for a more leisurely ride. This being the Cotswolds, there is always an opportunity to make it contain more hills as well.
There are also a number of shorter routes that are perfect for families or those who prefer a more relaxed pace. The Moreton-in-Marsh to Chipping Campden route is a 10-mile ride that takes you through some of the most charming villages in the area. The route is relatively flat, making it suitable for cyclists of all abilities.
Cotswolds Bike Hire
If you don’t have your own bike, there are several places in the North Cotswolds where you can hire one. Cotswold Electric Bike Tours offers guided e-bike tours of the region, as well as bike hire for those who prefer to explore on their own. Cotswolds Bike Hire is another great option, offering a range of high-quality road and touring bikes for hire, as well as guided tours of the region.
Where to Stay
When it comes to accommodation, the North Cotswolds has a range of options to suit all tastes and budgets. The area is home to a number of charming guesthouses and bed and breakfasts, as well as luxury hotels and self-catering cottages. The town of Chipping Campden is particularly popular with cyclists, as it is home to a number of excellent pubs and restaurants, as well as a range of accommodation options.
Overall, cycling in the North Cotswolds is a fantastic way to experience the stunning English countryside and charming villages of this beautiful region. Whether you’re looking for a challenging ride or a more relaxed pace, the North Cotswolds has something to offer cyclists of all abilities. With excellent routes, great bike hire options, and plenty of accommodation choices, it’s no wonder that this area is such a popular destination for cyclists.
