Romantic rides on the National Cupid Network
Where is the most romantic spot to explore in Britain? Could it be the peaceful countryside of Suffolk with its fresh-scented forests, heathlands and stunning coastal scenery? Or perhaps it's amongst the historic Roman landmarks in the picturesque city of Bath?
Sharing a few hours of romantic bliss with the one you love can be enjoyed in every corner of the UK on the National Cycle Network, or the National Cupid Network as we like to call it.
Here are a few of our favourite romantic cycle rides:
Cornwall
The Cornish Way reveals a rich variety of landscape from hidden coves to windswept moorland. Treat your partner along the way by organising a surprise visit to one of Cornwall's finest attractions, including the Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan. There are also plenty of quaint fishing villages along this route with charming cafes that offer a romantic cream tea for two.
Cardiff
Picture a fairytale castle rising above beautiful beech woodland. This is the spectacular scene of Castell Coch, an impressive 19th-century Gothic Revival castle built on the remains of a genuine 13th-century fortication. Make the most of this stunning vista by taking a cycle ride from Cardiff Bay and head along the Taff Trail until you reach Tongwynlais.
Edinburgh
Scotland's enchanting capital is one of the UK's most romantic cities with its magnificent architecture and beautiful castle. Make the most of a romantic getaway with a cycle ride through Scotland's dramatic countryside. The Edinburgh to Aberdeen route via Dundee crosses the Firth of Forth into the kingdom of Fife with its stunning scenery providing the perfect backdrop for a romantic picnic.
Cambridgeshire
Cambridge is not only one of the UK's most cycle-friendly cities, it is also home to a great spread of outstanding architecture, medieval streets, gardens and bridges all waiting to be explored during a romantic city break. Start off with a leisurely stroll around Cambridge then head towards Bottisham alongside the River Cam where you could always stop off and hire a punt.
Northern Ireland
The Giant's Causeway, a world heritage site, is steeped in myths and legends and offers a fantastic destination for a scenic ride along Ireland's north coast. Between Castlerock and Giant's Causeway, there are many side trips to explore off the main route, such as the 18th-century Mussenden Temple, a small circular building on the cliffs just west of Castlerock. A trip to the Bushmills Whiskey Distillery is also worth a visit.
Lake District
Already famous for the romance of its landscape for walkers, the Lake District also has some wonderful cycle routes. For a gentle ride, we recommend the Keswick to Threlkeld route which is small in distance yet rich in its atmosphere and array of scenery, including the beautiful tree-clad Greta Gorge. Start off in Keswick and visit the all year round Theatre by the Lake. The ride will then take you east towards the charming village of Threlkeld which lies in the shadow of the Blencathra Mountain.
Warwickshire
The Stratford Greenway is a relaxed traffic-free ride along a disused railway and canal towpath, taking you close to the centre of town where you can muse upon some of literature's greatest love stories. A visit to Stratford-On-Avon offers the perfect opportunity to stop for the evening, enjoy dinner for two and then head to the theatre to watch the romantic classic, Romeo and Juliet.
Can't see a ride near you? Why not browse our selection of rides by region.