Cornwall
Family Rides: 8 Traffic Free Cycle Routes Cornwall Provides!
Family Rides: 8 Traffic Free Cycle Routes Cornwall Provides!
The Camel Trail crossing Pinkson Creek by Tony Atkin under license CC BY-SA 4.0
Are you looking for an adventurous holiday that's packed with stunning scenery? Have you been considering taking up cycling but don't know where to start? Cornwall is the perfect destination to combine a unique getaway with a thrilling and breathtaking bike ride. With incredible trails spread throughout its lush landscape, it is renowned as one of the best destinations in Britain for cyclists of all levels. From winding country lanes to scenic coastal routes, there’s something here to suit everyone - come explore Cornwall and experience the joys of two-wheeling!
You can cycle all 18 miles of the Camel Trail, see the stunning Eden Project at the end of the route from Wheal Martyn, or take in the 480 hectares of Goss Moor!
The table above lists all the best cycle routes in Cornwall. Click on each name to be taken straight to the part of the blog post for that route.
Cornwall Cycling FAQ's
It depends on the specific route or area in Cornwall that you are cycling. Some areas such as Bodmin Moor, are hilly and can be a challenge on the legs. However, other areas, such as Tehidy Country Park, are relatively flat and easy to cycle on. Around the coast you have flat areas and coastal cliffs which can be a mix of both. It is best to research the specific route you plan to take and plan accordingly.
Yes, it is possible to cycle on some coastal paths in Cornwall. However, some sections of coastal paths or full paths are for pedestrians only and cyclists are not allowed to ride their bike on these stretches of pathway. To check for restrictions on cycling on specific paths you should visit the Cornwall county website before you travel to save any disappointment when you arrive.
The Ultimate Cornwall Cycling Experience
The glorious south west coastal county of Cornwall has some of the best routes for cycling in the United Kingdom. Have a look below at the cycle routes listed on the interactive map and click on the buttons below the map for each route, for further information before you travel.
The Tehidy Trail
Journey through the wilds of West Cornwall on a 2.5-mile cycle route - The Tehidy Trail! This multi-use track, located in Tehidy Country Park and running throughout the former home to Sir Francis Basset, gives visitors an exciting opportunity to explore this vast wooded area with some steep sections but otherwise a generally flat terrain.
The Camel Trail
Embark on a unique adventure through Cornwall's countryside with the Camel Trail! This 18-mile journey skirts beside stunning estuaries, rolling hills, and lush woodland. Featuring an easy-to-navigate disused railway line, this largely traffic-free trail is perfect for leisurely strolls or invigorating cycle rides - no matter how you choose to traverse it; prepare to be amazed by its majestic beauty.
St Austell River and Pentewan Railway trail by John Gibson under license CC BY-SA 4.0
Pentewan Valley Trail
Enjoy a relaxed ride along the 3.4-mile trail that takes you from St Austell to Pentewan, where wildflowers and verdant woodland may be appreciated alongside views of the distant horizon! Afterwards, take some time out at one of many local pubs or restaurants alongside the beach at Pentewan before taking off towards the picturesque fishing village of Mevagissey for an afternoon tea break with postcard-perfect scenes as your backdrop.
Eden Project to Wheal Martyn
Explore the breath-taking south Cornwall countryside on one of five Clay Trails that surround the St Austell area! Starting from Wheal Martyn museum, this 5-mile adventure takes you across a main road and through some muddy narrow sections as it winds its way past former clay tips. There are also several gentle inclines to be savoured along with picturesque views of China Clay country. End your journey in style at the Eden Project for stunning coloured gardens, towering biomes, and tasty local cuisine!
The Goss Moor Trail by Ross Allday under license CC BY-SA 4.0
MTB: Goss Moor
Goss Moor is a 480-hectare National Nature Reserve (NNR) that's owned and managed by Natural England, making it the perfect spot for outdoor lovers to explore. From walking and cycling around the 7-mile circular trail - with its flat surface accommodating all levels of cyclists - to taking in one of many additional routes onto Tregoss Moor, there are endless possibilities in the nature reserve!
MTB: Grogley Woods
For an amazing mountain biking adventure, head to Grogley Woods near Bodmin in North Cornwall! Nestled south of Wadebridge along the banks of the River Camel on Grogley Road, you'll find plenty of black MTB trails and red downhill lines. Conquer forest terrain with drops and jumps for the more experienced riders. Bikers can explore five unique runs featuring varying levels of steepness that will challenge your abilities!
MTB: Rock to Polzeath
Located just up from the village of Rock on the Cornish Coast, a recently opened and scenic trail from St Minver to Polzeath. This 2.5-mile route snakes through picturesque terrain offering views across the Camel Estuary and across to Padstow. Climb some small hills with splendid vistas along your way as you explore this unique countryside oasis.
MTB: Cardinham Woods
If you're hankering for an adventurous off-road cycling experience, head to Cardinham Woods on the outskirts of Bodmin! This magical woodland is home to a plethora of purpose-built trails that cater to all abilities. For those looking for more family-friendly routes, there's plenty; while experienced thrill seekers can challenge themselves with twelve kilometres' worth of single track and challenging climbs - dubbed 'The Bodmin Beast'. If this wasn't enough enticement then maybe their award-winning café will be: serving up homemade delights using locally sourced ingredients it is something else!
Conclusion
In this blog post, we have shared some of the best Cornwall bike routes. To find out more about things to do in this area, click on the links below:
Please note...
All outdoor activities including cycling involve a degree of risk. The routes are recommended due to the well known features of each route but this may change over time and further research is required before undertaking any activity. The weather can also impact the surface and general conditions of each route so please keep yourself updated with the weather forecast before setting off to enjoy your cycle!
Crown Copyright, courtesy Forestry Commission (27/01/23) licensed under the Open Government License.