Spotlight On - Cycling in the South and East
The days are getting longer, it’s getting warmer and Summer doesn’t feel that far off. Spring is an ideal time to escape and enjoy the great outdoors so dust off that bike and start getting out there!
National and Regional Cycle Routes - a wide range of way marked long distance routes include the National Cycle Network around the Suffolk Coast, The Fens and Constable Country - suitable for short breaks and longer holidays. One third of the National Cycle Network is on traffic-free paths (disused railway lines and canal towpaths), with the rest on quiet minor roads and traffic-calmed streets. Look out for the white numbers on the red background which indicate the way marking of the network.
With thousands of miles of quiet country lanes and roads to explore, the East of England Tourist Board has developed over 25 circular Cycling Discovery maps. These wind through rich agricultural land and along unspoilt coastline, visiting historic market towns and picturesque villages. Stop off to enjoy places of interest and welcoming pubs.
THE FENS CYCLE WAY
Starting Point: Two separate loops (within linear link) - starting from Wisbech, Cambridgeshire (Northern Loop); and Ely, Cambridgeshire (Southern Loop).
Distance: Northern Loop - 40 miles/64 kilometres. Southern Loop - 34 miles/55 kilometres (several short cuts available).
This circular route is set within a unique and distinctive area of Britain, with an atmosphere and character all of its own. The Fen landscape of today is a result of man’s desire to tame and control this former wet wilderness, and in turn, create some of the most fertile land in Britain. Discover a unique panorama, criss-crossed by waterways, and offering stunning skyscapes and unforgettable sunsets. Explore nature reserves, windmills, churches and historic market towns such as Wisbech, Downham Market, March and Ely. Using a mixture of mainly quiet roads and well-surfaced tracks, the route consists of two separate loops, connected by a linear link. The full circuit (both loops) is designed to take between two and four days to complete.
THE PAINTERS TRAIL
Starting Point: Mainningtree, Essex or Sudbury Suffolk
Distance: 69 miles/111 kilometres (several short cuts available).
This circular route is set within the beautiful countryside of the Stour Valley, with its unique character of riverside pasture, farmland and picturesque villages. This includes the Dedham Vale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - characterised by some of England’s finest lowland landscape, and where the River Stour winds through undulating fields and meadows dotted with old trees and ancient woodlands. This area has been made famous by its associations with many artists and writers, such as John Constable, Britain’s best-loved landscape painter. Using a mixture of mainly quiet roads, cycle paths and well-surfaced tracks, the full circuit is designed to take between two and three days to complete, but within this, there are short-cuts and off-road options available, allowing plenty of scope for shorter rides.
In Norfolk you can take advantage of The Bittern Line, a cycling-friendly railway line that connects the historic city of Norwich (via The Broads) with the seaside towns of Cromer and Sheringham on the coast. Running for 30 miles, cycles are welcomed on the train - but space should be booked (£1.00 per day) on 0845 600 7245. The ‘Around the Bittern Track’ guide (free on request when booking a space) - gives details and a map of nine cycle rides from stations along the route. Using quiet roads and lanes, there are both circular and linear routes of 6 to 30 miles. www.bitternline.com
In Sussex the Cuckoo Trail, which forms part of the National Cycle Network (NCN) route 21, is a 10 mile traffic-free cycle through the Sussex countryside. There is also a ride along the South Downs way into Eastbourne or the NCN route 2 right to the heart of ‘1066 Country’; with its ancient landscape full of historic sites such as Battle Abbey, Bodiam Castle and the Combe Haven Valley just outside Hastings. A few miles to the west, accessible by off-road tracks and quiet lanes, lies the historic town of Lewes; only 6 miles on cycle tracks or off-road along the South Downs Way, into Brighton.
The Isle of Wight is perfect for cycling; with quiet country lanes and plenty of opportunity for off-road cycling. There is a choice of routes, varying from challenging hills and bumpy bridleways to purpose-built tracks along former railway lines. As the island has a total area of just 147 square miles and there are over 200 miles of cycle routes - it seems crazy not to take advantage.
Round the Island is for those energetic enough to experience the variety and diversity of the island. From high chalk cliffs to wooded estuaries, this permanently signed route is small on roads and takes you through much of the rural island. Experienced cyclists could complete the route in a day (about 8 hours in the saddle) but most of us would probably choose a more leisurely tour over several days.
THE ESSEX CYCLE ROUTE
Starting Point: No designated starting point - various options on route.
Distance: 250 miles/402 kilometres (several short cuts available).
This circular route is set within a gently rolling countryside of farmland and river valleys, dotted with picturesque villages and historic market towns (Saffron Walden, Thaxted, Harwich, Coggeshall, Maldon and Chipping Ongar). Using a mixture of mainly quiet roads and lanes, there are also several shorter circular options off the main ride - offering a choice of day and half day trips. The route also connects with the National Cycle Network. A saleable pack is available from Essex County Council on 01245 437291.
THE HEART OF SUFFOLK
Starting Point: No designated starting point - various options on route.
Distance: 78 miles/125 kilometres (several short cuts available).
This circular route covers the gently rolling landscape, pretty villages and old market towns of Mid Suffolk. Fully signed in both directions, it passes through Bungay, Eye, Debenham, Framlingham and Halesworth. A saleable guide is available from Mid Suffolk Tourist Information Centre on 01449 676800.