Cycling in London

At South East region from canals to beaches and cities to countryside, there have some splendid rides that are easily manageable for families with young children and novice cyclists.

Crab & Winkle Way route does feature some hills, with a 61m (200ft) climb out of Canterbury and an undulating middle section. However, there are fine views over Whitstable from the highest point of the ride. The Cuckoo Trail is one of the most popular family cycle rides in the South East and gained its name from an old Sussex tradition of releasing a cuckoo at the Heathfield Fair.

With its gentle gradients and the close-up view of canal side life, Kennet and Avon Canal. Route is a wonderful way to explore this corner of Berkshire. Linking Newbury with the modern centre of Reading, the route follows the canal towpath, with an occasional on-road detour. Kent Coastal Castles Ride route is perfect for all ages and abilities and for walkers and wheelchair users as well as cyclists.

Tonbridge to Penshurst route offers an excellent, almost entirely traffic-free ride from the heart of Tonbridge alongside the River Medway, out into the countryside as far as the glorious buildings of Penshurst Place, some 5 miles to the west.

The Phoenix Trail links the two market towns of Thame and Princes Risborough, providing an ideal traffic free ride for all the family. This is a fantastic Art Trail with over 30 artworks commissioned by Sustrans. There is also the opportunity to admire the magnificent views of the nearby Chiltern Hills and spot Red Kites, the impressive birds of prey that thrive in the area.

This great 10 mile route takes you from the historic city of Oxford out to Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. The Churchill exhibition gives a fascinating insight into the ‘Greatest Briton’ including personal letters, photographs and paintings. Running from East Grinstead to Groombridge, the Forest Way is perfect for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. This route follows a disused railway line and is flat and traffic-free.