Top 10 Winter rides
From unspoiled coastlines and nature reserves to steep wooded valleys and historic landmarks; the UK is home to a whole host of attractions waiting to be explored whatever the weather.
With dark evenings upon us, there are plenty of fun ways to make the most of our daylight hours. Rather than stay indoors to hide from the seasonal cold snap, why not warm up outdoors by cycling away the winter blues and pedalling along some of Britain's finest hot spots. We have selected ten of the best cycle rides to enjoy throughout the UK this winter.
To find more inspiration on other places to explore, visit our online shop where a comprehensive selection of maps and guides are available to purchase. All sales directly benefit our work www.sustransshop.co.uk
For more information call Sustrans information line on 0845 1130065.
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Mawddach Trail - Dolgellau to Barmouth Promenade: North Wales
This ride is jam-packed with a range of shops, cafes and pubs, including George III pub on the water's edge at Penmaenpool which is a popular resting point offering excellent food.
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Millennium Coastal Park - Banc Pen-dre, Kidwelly town centre to Btnea train station: South Wales
This ride starts in Kidwelly, famous for its impressive castle which looks even more dramatic on a winter's day when the cold air whips up around its huge towers.
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Keswick to Threlkeld: North West
Small in distance yet rich in its atmosphere and array of scenery, this is a gentle ride in the Lake District.
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Consett to Sunderland railway path: North East
Broken down into sections or enjoyed as a more challenging ride to burn off the Christmas excess, this route has plenty to offer for wildlife fans.
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Birmingham's Gas Street Basin to Wolverhampton station: Midlands
Enjoy Birmingham's colourful Christmas Market and Craft Fair before heading out on a winter cycle ride which conveniently starts a stone's throw away from the market at New Street Station.
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Cycle to the Wash - King's Lynn to Shepherd's Port via Snettisham: East Anglia
For a leisurely start to your ride, warm up over a hot drink in the bustling town of King's Lynn before picking up the cycle path at the railway station.
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Gloucester to Slimbridge Wildlands and Wetlands Trust: South West
Escape into the countryside for a breath of fresh air and enjoy Gloucestershire's winter scenery.
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Up The Tay, Perth to Dunkeld: Scotland
This gentle ride starts in Perth where an attractive network of Georgian streets is worth exploring for Christmas shopping ideas before the journey begins.
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The Forest and Loch Ride, Aberfoyle to Callander: Scotland
Pedal out into a winter wonderland along this stunning route taking you through a scenic mountain forest and along the picturesque shore of Loch Venachar.
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Belfast to Lisburn along the Lagan and Lough Cycle Way: Northern Ireland
Level and mostly traffic-free, this cycle way connects Belfast and Lisburn.