10 historic UK towns & cities for great family cycling

Explore these charming historic towns and cities across the UK on a family-friendly cycling adventure. Each destination offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and beautiful scenery that’s perfect for a bike ride. 

Check out our guide to help you plan your next family biking trip:

Key landmarks:

• York Minster: Start your journey at York Minster, one of the largest and most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Europe. This architectural marvel boasts intricate stained glass windows, soaring vaulted ceilings, and elaborate stone carvings. For a panoramic view of the city, consider climbing the Minster's 275 steps to the top of the Central Tower. The Minster's surrounding area features beautifully landscaped gardens and historic buildings, making it a delightful starting point for your cycling tour. Learn more about York Minster here >>
• Clifford's Tower: Just a short ride from York Minster, Clifford’s Tower is a prominent landmark that offers a glimpse into York’s Norman past. Originally part of York Castle, this imposing structure sits atop a mound and provides stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Learn about its history as a royal stronghold and its role during various historical events. Find out more about Clifford’s Tower here >>
• The Shambles: No visit to York would be complete without cycling through The Shambles, a narrow, winding street that feels like stepping back in time. Characterised by its overhanging timber-framed buildings, this charming street dates back to the 14th century. As you cycle, you’ll pass quaint shops, cafes, and traditional architecture, offering plenty of opportunities for photos and exploration. Discover The Shambles >>

Other family activities:

• National Railway Museum: Located a short ride from the city centre, the National Railway Museum is a must-visit for families. This vast museum houses one of the largest collections of historic locomotives and railway memorabilia. Learn more about the National Railway Museum >>
• York's Chocolate Story: For a sweet adventure, head to York’s Chocolate Story, where the history of chocolate in York comes to life. The tour includes hands-on chocolate-making demonstrations, tasting sessions, and the chance to learn about famous York chocolate brands like Rowntree’s and Terry’s. Find out about York’s Chocolate Story >>
• Biking routes and parks: Beyond the city’s main attractions, York offers several bike-friendly routes and green spaces. The city walls themselves are a fantastic route, providing a scenic and historical path around the city. Additionally, explore the paths along the River Ouse or venture into nearby parks like Rowntree Park, which features a playground, gardens, and open spaces perfect for a family picnic.

Key landmarks: 

• Bath Abbey: A stunning example of Gothic architecture with its impressive stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings. The abbey's magnificent fan-vaulted ceiling and the memorials of historical figures enhance its architectural beauty. Climb the abbey’s tower for panoramic views of the city, or explore the beautiful abbey gardens adjacent to the building. Discover Bath Abbey >>
• The Royal Crescent: The Royal Crescent is a striking crescent-shaped row of Georgian townhouses, considered one of Bath's architectural masterpieces. Cycle around the crescent to appreciate its grandeur and explore the surrounding gardens and open spaces. Learn more about The Royal Crescent >>
• The Circus: Another architectural gem is The Circus, a circular terrace of Georgian townhouses that complements the Royal Crescent’s design. The Circus is notable for its uniformity and harmonious proportions, making it a picturesque stop on your bike tour. Find out more about The Circus >>

Other family activities:

• The Herschel Museum of Astronomy: Located in the historic house where the astronomer Sir William Herschel lived and worked, provides a fascinating insight into the early days of modern astronomy. This museum, dedicated to Herschel’s groundbreaking work, features a range of interactive exhibits and displays that make it an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Discover the Herschel Museum >>
• Kennet and Avon Canal: For a peaceful and scenic ride, take the bike-friendly towpath along the Kennet and Avon Canal. This route offers tranquil views of the waterway, picturesque countryside, and charming canal-side cottages. Get to know the Kennet and Avon Canal cycle route >>

Key landmarks: 

• Stratford-upon-Avon Canal: Cycling along the Stratford-upon-Avon Canal offers a serene and scenic experience. The towpath stretches for several miles, providing a relaxing escape from the town’s busier areas. The canal also features several charming lock houses and small boats, adding to the picturesque ambience. Check out the cycling guide for dedicated cycling routes >>
• Shakespeare's Birthplace: Start your cycling tour at Shakespeare’s Birthplace, located on Henley Street. This 16th-century timber-framed house is where William Shakespeare was born in 1564. The property has been meticulously preserved and offers a fascinating glimpse into Shakespeare’s early years. Visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace >>
• Anne Hathaway's Cottage: A short ride from the town centre, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage is the picturesque family home of Shakespeare’s wife. This charming 12-room farmhouse, set in beautiful gardens, showcases traditional English country life. Find out more about Anne Hathaway’s Cottage >>

Other family activities: 

• Royal Shakespeare Theatre: No visit to Stratford-upon-Avon is complete without experiencing the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, the centrepiece of the town’s vibrant cultural scene. The theatre, home to the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC), hosts a wide range of performances, including Shakespeare’s plays, contemporary works, and classic dramas. Take a look at what’s on at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre >>
• Stratford Butterfly Farm: For a change of pace, the Stratford Butterfly Farm is a fun and educational stop for families. Located a short distance from the town centre, the farm is home to a diverse collection of butterflies from around the world. Visitors can walk through tropical habitats filled with vibrant butterflies, learn about their life cycles, and even handle some of the creatures in the farm’s insect encounters area. Visit the Stratford Butterfly Farm >>
• Local Market: Stratford-upon-Avon hosts a vibrant market with a range of local produce, crafts, and souvenirs. The market is held on specific days and provides a great opportunity to sample local treats and pick up unique gifts. Find out about Stratford’s local markets >>

Key landmarks: 

• Edinburgh Castle: Edinburgh Castle, is an iconic fortress perched on Castle Rock. This historic stronghold dominates the city’s skyline and is a must-visit for its rich history and panoramic views. The castle’s exhibits include the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, and the National War Museum. Cycling around the castle area provides stunning vantage points and allows you to appreciate its imposing architecture from various angles. The castle’s location on a volcanic rock adds to its dramatic presence, making it a focal point of Edinburgh’s historic landscape. Visit Edinburgh Castle >>
• Arthur’s Seat: Cycle up to Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that offers one of the best panoramic views of Edinburgh and its surroundings. This ancient peak, located in Holyrood Park, provides a relatively accessible climb with rewarding views over the city, the Firth of Forth, and the rolling hills beyond. The route up Arthur’s Seat is well-trodden but can be challenging; however, the vista from the top makes the effort worthwhile. The surrounding park is also great for a post-climb picnic or a leisurely ride through its expansive green spaces. Learn more about Arthur’s Seat >>
• The Royal Mile: The Royal Mile, stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, is the city's historic thoroughfare. This vibrant street allows you to experience the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Along the Royal Mile, you’ll find a mix of historic sites, traditional Scottish shops, and lively street performers. Discover The Royal Mile >>

Other family activities:

• Edinburgh Zoo: Edinburgh Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including giant pandas, penguins, and more. The zoo offers engaging exhibits and daily animal talks, making it a fantastic destination for a family day out. The zoo’s expansive grounds and diverse animal enclosures provide plenty of opportunities for exploration and learning. Check out Edinburgh Zoo >>
• National Museum of Scotland: Cycling over to the National Museum of Scotland provides an opportunity to delve into Scottish history and culture. The museum’s exhibits span a wide range of topics, including natural history, science, and Scottish heritage. Interactive displays and hands-on activities make it a great spot for families to explore and learn together. Find out more about the National Museum of Scotland >>
• Camera Obscura and World of Illusions: Located near the Castlehill area, Camera Obscura offers a fun and educational experience for families. This attraction includes a Victorian optical device that provides panoramic views of the city, as well as a range of interactive exhibits and optical illusions. Visit the Camera Obscura website to learn more >>

Key landmarks:

• Roman Walls: Chester’s Roman walls are among the most complete and well-preserved in the UK. Cycling along these ancient fortifications offers a unique perspective on the city’s history. The walls form a continuous circuit around the city centre and provide excellent views of Chester’s historic landmarks and surrounding areas. The route along the walls is relatively flat and accessible, making it ideal for cyclists of all ages. Check out Chester's Roman walls >>
• Chester Cathedral: Located in the heart of the city, Chester Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a must-visit landmark. The cathedral’s stunning facade, intricate stonework, and beautiful stained glass windows create a striking impression. Visit Chester Cathedral for more information >>
• Medieval Streets and Tudor-Style Buildings: As you cycle through Chester’s medieval streets, you’ll encounter a fascinating mix of Tudor-style buildings and historic architecture. The Rows, a series of elevated walkways lined with shops and galleries, are particularly notable. 

Other family activities: 

• Chester Zoo: Chester Zoo, one of the largest and most popular zoos in the UK, offers an exciting day out for the whole family. Located just a short distance from the city centre, the zoo is home to over 21,000 animals, including exotic species such as tigers, elephants, and giraffes. The zoo’s expansive grounds include themed areas like the Islands and the Safari Park, providing immersive experiences for visitors. For more information, visit Chester Zoo >>
• Boat Trip Along the River Dee: A relaxing boat trip along the River Dee is a great way to experience Chester’s scenic beauty from a different perspective. Several boat operators offer tours that navigate the river’s tranquil waters, providing views of the city’s riverside attractions and lush landscapes. Discover River Dee boat trips >>
• Chester City Museum and Grosvenor Museum: For additional educational opportunities, visit the Chester City Museum and Grosvenor Museum. The museums offer exhibits on Chester’s history, archaeology, and art. Highlights include Roman artefacts, medieval relics, and Victorian displays. Learn more about the museums >>

Key landmarks: 

• St. Andrews Cathedral: Begin your cycling exploration at the impressive ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral, once one of the largest and most important religious buildings in medieval Scotland. Find out more about St. Andrews Cathedral >>
• St. Andrews Castle: Perched on a cliff overlooking the North Sea, St. Andrews Castle is a dramatic fortress that offers a glimpse into Scotland’s turbulent past. The castle, with its well-preserved ruins, includes elements such as the medieval curtain walls, the impressive gatehouse, and the deep, atmospheric dungeon. The castle’s location provides spectacular coastal views, and the surrounding landscape is ideal for cycling. Discover St. Andrews Castle >>
• Fife Coastal Path: The Fife Coastal Path is a long-distance trail that offers spectacular coastal views and scenic cycling routes. Portions of the path near St. Andrews provide an excellent opportunity to explore the surrounding countryside and enjoy the natural beauty of the coastline. The path meanders through charming villages, rugged cliffs, and serene beaches, providing a diverse and enjoyable cycling experience. Visit the Fife Coastal Path website for more information >>

Other family activities: 

• St. Andrews Botanic Garden: The St. Andrews Botanic Garden is a peaceful retreat located a short distance from the town centre. The garden features a diverse collection of plants, including native species and exotic plants from around the world. Discover St. Andrews Botanic Garden >>
• St. Andrews Aquarium: Located on the harbour, St. Andrews Aquarium offers an engaging experience for families. The aquarium features a variety of marine life, including local species and exotic fish. Highlights include interactive exhibits, touch pools, and informative displays about marine ecosystems. Explore St. Andrews Aquarium's website >>
• Craigtoun Park: Craigtoun Park, located just a short distance from St. Andrews, is a family-friendly park with a range of outdoor activities. The park features well-maintained gardens, a boating lake, and a miniature railway. Learn more about Craigtoun Park >>

Key landmarks: 

• Canterbury Cathedral: Begin your cycling journey at Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of England’s most renowned religious landmarks. This magnificent cathedral, with its origins dating back to 597 AD, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The cathedral’s stunning façade, intricately carved details, and soaring spires make it a striking focal point. See what Canterbury Cathedral has to offer >>
• Great Stour Way: For a longer, scenic ride, follow the Great Stour Way, a dedicated cycling and walking path that runs alongside the picturesque River Stour. This route offers a tranquil escape from the city centre and provides beautiful views of the river and its lush surroundings. The path stretches from Canterbury to the nearby village of Fordwich, passing through serene countryside and charming villages. Learn more about Great Stour Way >>
• Westgate Towers: As you explore Canterbury’s medieval heart, be sure to cycle past Westgate Towers, one of the city’s original gates and the largest surviving medieval gatehouse in England. The towers, which date back to the 14th century, served as a gateway into the city and also housed a prison in the past. Discover Westgate Towers >>

Other activities: 

• St. Augustine’s Abbey: Explore the ruins of St. Augustine’s Abbey, a significant historical site founded in 597 AD by St. Augustine, the first Archbishop of Canterbury. The abbey was once a major religious centre and played a key role in the early Christian church in England. Today, visitors can wander among the evocative ruins, including the remnants of the abbey’s church and cloisters. Find out more about St. Augustine’s Abbey >>
• Canterbury Tales Attraction: The Canterbury Tales attraction offers an immersive experience that brings the stories of Geoffrey Chaucer’s famous literary work to life. Located near the city centre, the attraction features interactive exhibits and costumed characters that recreate scenes from Chaucer’s tales. Check out the Canterbury Tales website for more information >>
• Canterbury Historic River Tours: For a different perspective on Canterbury, consider taking a historic river tour along the River Stour. Several tour operators offer guided boat trips that provide commentary on the city’s history, landmarks, and architecture. Discover the river tours here >>

Key landmarks: 

• Bodleian Library: Begin your cycling exploration at the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe and a cornerstone of Oxford’s academic life. The library, founded in 1602, houses an extensive collection of manuscripts and rare books. Discover the Bodleian Library >>
• Radcliffe Camera: Cycling past the Radcliffe Camera provides an opportunity to admire one of Oxford’s most photographed buildings. Designed by James Gibbs in the 18th century, this iconic round building serves as a reading room for the Bodleian Library and is renowned for its stunning architecture. Learn more about the Radcliffe Camera >>
• The Thames Path: The Thames Path offers a scenic cycling route along the River Thames, which flows through Oxford. This path provides a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, with picturesque views of the river, green meadows, and charming riverside properties. The path is ideal for a leisurely ride. Find out more about The Thames Path in Oxford >> 

Other family activities: 

• Christ Church College: Christ Church College is one of Oxford’s most famous and historic colleges, known for its stunning architecture and literary connections. Founded in 1546, the college features a magnificent dining hall, a beautiful chapel, and extensive gardens. Christ Church has inspired various literary works, including the Harry Potter series, where its dining hall was used as the Hogwarts Great Hall. See what Christ Church College has to offer >>
• University Parks: University Parks offers a large, green space ideal for cycling, picnicking, and family outings. The park features well-maintained paths, open lawns, and scenic views of the River Cherwell. It’s a great spot for a relaxing ride or a leisurely stroll, with plenty of space for children to play and families to enjoy the outdoors. Check out the University Parks website for more information >>

Key landmarks: 

• Cobblestone Streets of the Old Town: Cycling through the cobblestone streets of Durham’s old town provides a glimpse into its medieval past. The narrow, winding streets are lined with historic buildings, charming shops, and traditional pubs.
• Durham Cathedral: Start your cycling tour with a visit to Durham Cathedral, a masterpiece of Norman architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Completed in 1133, the cathedral is renowned for its stunning Romanesque design, including its grand nave, intricately carved capitals, and the impressive Chapter House. The cathedral’s location atop a hill offers commanding views of the city and the River Wear. Discover Durham Cathedral >>
• Durham Castle: Adjacent to the cathedral, Durham Castle is another iconic landmark that adds to the city’s medieval charm. Originally built as a fortress in the 11th century, the castle now serves as part of Durham University and offers guided tours of its historic rooms and battlements. Explore Durham Castle >>

Other family activities: 

• Durham University Botanic Garden: Just a short bike ride from the city centre, Durham University Botanic Garden offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to explore beautiful landscapes. The garden features a diverse range of plant collections, including native species, exotic plants, and themed areas such as the woodland garden and the alpine house. Learn more about the Botanic Garden >>
• Durham Museum and Heritage Centre: For a deeper dive into Durham’s history, visit the Durham Museum and Heritage Centre. The museum features exhibits on the city’s past, including its medieval heritage, industrial history, and local traditions. Interactive displays and informative panels make it an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Find out more about Durham Museum >>
• Crook Hall and Gardens: A short distance from Durham city centre, Crook Hall is a historic house with beautifully landscaped gardens. The hall, dating back to the 13th century, features charming rooms and exhibits on local history. The gardens, including a medieval knot garden, a walled garden, and a tranquil pond, provide a picturesque setting for a leisurely exploration. Visit Crook Hall to learn more >>

Key landmarks: 

• Ludlow Castle: Begin your cycling exploration at Ludlow Castle, a majestic fortress that dates back to the 11th century. The castle, perched on a hill overlooking the town, offers fascinating insights into Ludlow’s medieval past. As you cycle around the castle, you can admire its impressive stone walls, battlements, and the well-preserved gatehouse. See what Ludlow Castle has to offer >>
• Traditional Markets: Ludlow’s vibrant markets are a key feature of the town’s charm. The markets, held in the town centre, offer a variety of local produce, crafts, and antiques. Cycling through the market areas provides an opportunity to experience the town’s lively atmosphere and sample local goods. Check out Ludlow Markets >>
• Timber-Framed Buildings: Cycling through Ludlow’s historic streets, you’ll encounter an array of charming timber-framed buildings that reflect the town’s rich architectural heritage. Notable examples include the Tudor-style houses on High Street and the 16th-century Feathers Hotel, renowned for its distinctive façade and historic significance. 

Other family activities: 

• St. Laurence's Church: St. Laurence's Church is a striking example of medieval church architecture and an important landmark in Ludlow. The church features a stunning Gothic façade, intricate stonework, and a beautifully decorated interior with notable stained glass windows. The church’s tower offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside. Learn more about St. Laurence’s Church >>
• Ludlow Food Centre: For a taste of local produce, visit the Ludlow Food Centre, located a short distance from the town centre. The centre offers a range of high-quality food products, including artisanal cheeses, meats, and baked goods. It’s a great place to pick up local treats and enjoy a meal or snack. Find out more about Ludlow Food Centre Farm Shop >>
• Ludlow Museum: For a deeper understanding of the town’s history, visit Ludlow Museum. The museum features exhibits on Ludlow’s past, including its medieval heritage, local industries, and archaeological finds. The museum provides context and insights into the town’s development and historical significance. Discover Ludlow Museum >>

Thank you for joining us on this journey through the UK’s most historic towns and cities, each offering a unique and family-friendly cycling experience. 

As you plan your next cycling adventure, make sure to plan carefully by using dedicated cycle lanes and quieter routes where possible, as not all destinations are traffic-free. Every pedal stroke not only unveils new landscapes but also brings you closer to the heart of the UK’s rich heritage. 

Safe travels and happy cycling!

Resources

https://www.visitbritain.com/en/things-to-do/explore-britain-bike

https://www.visitbritain.com/en/things-to-do/your-bike-britains-best-cycling-routes 

http://www.xplorebritain.com/england-cycling-holidays/

https://cycle-britain.co.uk/ 

https://www.sustrans.org.uk/national-cycle-network