Cycle Breaks

Discover the Cotswolds on two wheels and experience one of England's most scenic cycling destinations. From peaceful country lanes and rolling hills to charming market towns and picture-perfect villages, the Cotswolds offers unforgettable cycling breaks for every type of rider. Whether you're planning a leisurely weekend exploring at your own pace, an exhilarating road cycling adventure or an e-bike escape with family and friends, you'll find a wealth of routes, cycle-friendly places to stay, bike hire and welcoming pubs to enjoy along the way. With spectacular landscapes around every corner, a cycling break is one of the best ways to experience the beauty, history and character of the Cotswolds.

Why choose the Cotswolds for a cycling break?

Designated as a National Landscape, the Cotswolds is home to hundreds of miles of quiet country roads, dedicated cycle routes and traffic-free trails. Ride through honey-coloured villages, discover hidden valleys, stop off at historic attractions and refuel in award-winning cafés and traditional country pubs.

Whether you're an experienced cyclist looking to tackle the hills of the Cotswolds Escarpment or simply want a gentle ride between picturesque villages, there's a route to suit every ability.

Explore cycling routes across the Cotswolds

From relaxing circular rides to long-distance adventures, the Cotswolds offers plenty of choice.

Popular cycling routes include:

• The Cotswold Line and Thames Valley routes
• Family-friendly rides on traffic-free paths
• Challenging road cycling through the Cotswold Hills
• Gravel and off-road adventures
• Leisurely village-to-village routes with plenty of café stops
• Cotswold Lakes and enjoy the views 

Many routes pass through some of the Cotswolds' most iconic towns and villages, giving you the chance to combine cycling with sightseeing, shopping and local food and drink.

Cycle-friendly places to stay

Turn your day ride into a relaxing short break with accommodation designed with cyclists in mind. Stay in welcoming country inns, boutique hotels, self-catering cottages, campsites or luxury retreats, many offering secure bike storage, drying facilities and hearty breakfasts to fuel your next adventure.

Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a solo cycling holiday or a group getaway, you'll find plenty of places that make exploring by bike easy.

Bike hire and guided cycling tours

No bike? No problem.

Several businesses across the Cotswolds offer bike and e-bike hire, allowing you to explore without bringing your own equipment. Guided cycling tours are also available, with knowledgeable local guides helping you discover hidden gems, scenic viewpoints and fascinating local history.

Refuel along the way

One of the joys of a cycling break is the opportunity to stop and enjoy the Cotswolds' outstanding food and drink scene. From artisan cafés and village tearooms to traditional pubs with sunny gardens and award-winning restaurants, you'll find plenty of places to rest, recharge and sample local produce.

Plan your perfect cycling holiday

Whether you're visiting for a day, a long weekend or a week-long cycling holiday, the Cotswolds offers everything you need for an unforgettable adventure. Browse our collection of cycling routes, cycle-friendly accommodation, bike hire providers and places to eat to start planning your perfect cycling break.