If you’re thinking of ways to keep the kids busy this Easter then why not go out exploring on the National Cycle Network.
Here’s our Top Easter rides, all under 10 miles and largely traffic free (some have short on road sections). There are maps online, and all the routes are signposted as you go so you can get on with the serious business of riding your bikes and having fun.
There’s something for everyone, from the nature spotters to the seaside day trippers!
Go nature spotting
Where: North West
Which route: Chester Railway Path
This brilliant traffic free route is one of Sustrans greenest greenways and is rich in wildlife. This route connects the historic town of Chester to the Wharf at Connah’s Quay. The path takes you along the towpath of the Shopshire Union Canal.
Play games in a park
Where: East Midlands
Which route: Nutbrook Trail
Event info: Shipley Country Park Easter Activities
The 10 mile traffic free trail takes you through the beautiful 700 acre Shipley Country Park. The park is holding some Easter events including a treasure hunt and the chance to meet the Easter bunny!
Go back in time
Where: West Midlands
Which route: Telford to Ironbridge Gorge
Event info: Ironbridge Easter Activities
The route takes you past Blists Hill Victorian Town who are holding traditional Easter celebrations including ‘hunt-the-chick’, sing-a-longs and an Easter Parade.
Explore the Lake District
Where: North West
Which route: Keswick to Threlkeld
This 3 mile route is a great day trip from Keswick and showcases the beauty of the Lake District National Park. The route travels through the Greta Gorge on a scenic path.
Go to the seaside
Where: South East
Which route: Crab and Winkle Way
This 7 mile route links the cathedral city of Canterbury with the harbour in Whitstable. From Harbledown the route is mostly traffic-free, following the railway line from the Winding Pond (a great place to picnic) to the outskirts of Whitstable. On the way you travel through Blean Woods, one of the largest areas of ancient broadleaved woodland in southern Britain, where you can spot the rare heath fritillary butterfly.
Eat some chocolate
Where: South West
Which route: Clay Trails to Eden Project
Event info: Eden Project
Cycle to the chocolate festival being held at the Eden Project this Easter – you can try your hand at making some! Once you satisfied your sweet tooth, roam the massive biodomes and explore amazing tropical plants, complete with waterfalls!
See flowers in bloom
Where: Scotland
Which route: Glasgow Waterways Loop
This great route is 6 miles long and takes you past Glasgow’s Botanical Gardens which covers 42 hectares and is awash with stunning colourful flowers in Spring.
Explore the Welsh valleys
Where: Wales
Which route: Garw Valley
Event info: Bryngarw House Easter Activities
This 8 mile route starts at Bryngarw House and Country Park. They are holding Easter crafts and an Easter egg hunt over the Easter weekend.
A cafe is situated half way along the route at Pontyrhylm but for those who want to go off the beaten track there are plenty of paths leading off into the green hilly glades of the Garw Forest – a haven for bird watchers.
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