Cycling routes fit for a king

Cycling has always been a popular way to explore new places and get some exercise at the same time. With King Charles III coronation being held this weekend, what better way to combine these two things than by cycling around some of the most stunning royal sites in the UK? From Balmoral Castle in the Scottish Highlands to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, there are plenty of pleasant royal locations to explore on two wheels. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a new way to explore the UK’s rich history and natural beauty, cycling around royal sites is an experience that’s not to be missed. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best royal sites to explore by bike and provide tips for planning your own cycling adventure.

Route information can be found here

If you’re looking for a scenic and leisurely cycling route in Scotland, the Deeside Way is the perfect choice. Stretching for 41 miles from Aberdeen to Balmoral, the Deeside Way takes cyclists through some of the most beautiful countryside in the northeast of Scotland.

Starting from Duthie Park in Aberdeen, the Deeside Way follows the course of the River Dee as it winds its way through picturesque towns and villages such as Peterculter, Banchory, and Ballater. Along the way, cyclists will be treated to stunning views of the Cairngorms National Park and the rolling hills and forests of Deeside.

One of the highlights of the Deeside Way is the opportunity to visit Balmoral Castle, the summer residence of the British royal family. The castle is open to visitors during the summer months and is well worth a visit for its magnificent gardens, architecture, and history.

The Deeside Way is a relatively easy and flat route, suitable for cyclists of all levels. The route is mostly traffic-free, with well-marked paths that are ideal for cycling. Along the way, there are plenty of rest stops, cafes, and pubs to refuel and take in the stunning scenery.

For those looking for a shorter ride, there are several access points along the Deeside Way where cyclists can start or finish their journey. For example, starting from Ballater provides a shorter, 17-mile ride that still includes beautiful scenery and views.

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a beginner, cycling the Deeside Way is a great way to explore the Scottish countryside and take in some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. So why not hop on your bike and discover the beauty of Deeside for yourself?

Route information can be found here

For those looking for a more challenging ride, there’s King Alfred’s Way, a 350km route through some of the most scenic countryside in southern England.

King Alfred’s Way is a circular off-road adventure route that covers 350km and takes you through 10,000 years of English history, connecting some of the country’s most iconic sites. Despite being easily accessible from southern cities, the route offers a sense of escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Think of white horses on chalk hillsides and breath taking views across the rolling countryside.

The trail is named after Alfred the Great, who once ruled the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Wessex. It begins and ends at Winchester’s King Alfred statue, where he is buried. The trail uses parts of the Ridgeway and South Downs Way, making it perfect for gravel bikes. Although some riders such as Simon Richardson of GCN have managed the whole route in one sitting, we’d recommend planning a bike packing trip over a few days! The route also connects with the Thames Path and the North Downs Way, allowing riders to combine multiple routes into a longer ride.