On your bike - Haldon Forest Park, Devon

Haldon Forest Park is 10 minutes from Exeter and offers a wide range of trails as well as cycle hire, café and many non-cycling activities.  

You can even Go Ape there as they have a high ropes course, complete with zip wire.

From the saddle of a bike you can explore deeper into the forest than you have before, take in amazing views, watch out for wildlife and enjoy safe off-road cycling in a peaceful setting. 

For the more advanced mountain bikers there is the longest, most challenging cycle trail which takes in the thrilling ride on Haldon’s imposing ridge. Not for the faint-hearted, or the inexperienced! 

The skills park and pump track offers the perfect place to develop your riding and try out new techniques. 

All Images (c) 1 South West Cycle Adventure

Many of the trails are perfect for even the youngest cyclist.  So what are you waiting for? Go!

On your bike - Family Cycle Routes - Forest of Dean

Designed with small legs in mind, the cycle trail in the Forest of Dean is perfect for the whole family.  The signposted route follows purpose-built paths and railway lines dotted with plenty of picnic sites to stop at along the way.

It starts in the Cannop Valley from Pedalabikeaway and takes you along the old Severn and Wye railway line passing former stations at Drybrook Road, Cannop Wharf and Speech House. 

Remnants of former coal mines can be seen at Foxes Bridge, Lightmoor and New fancy.  It is mostly level with some short climbs making it suitable for all ages and abilities.

and if you don't have your own bikes, you can rent them from Pedalabikeaway, Dean Forest Cycles or Forest Bikes. 

Distance : 11-mile (18 km) 

Difficulty : Easy

www.forestry.gov.uk/forestofdean

On your bike - Bournemouth Promenade

© imagelibrary.bournemouth.co.uk

If, like me, you like cycling, but don't like to exert too much energy, being able to find somewhere that doesn't involve hills has got to be a good thing.

© www.arlingtonbournemouth.co.uk

So the cycle from Sandbanks to Boscombe along Bournemouth's sea-front is ideal.

© www.mls-college.co.uk

As long as you don't cycle during the day in July and August, you are free to ride along the prom at any time, being mindful of pedestrians, of course.

© imagelibrary.bournemouth.co.uk

You can take it at whatever pace suits you, stopping along the way to take in the views, cool down with an icecream or pause a little longer at one of the various eateries along the way.

© imagelibrary.bournemouth.co.uk

Do let us know if you have a favourite cycle route we can share.  Can't guarantee I'll be trying the hilly ones!  Wonder why I went on a cycling holiday in Norfolk!