Looking to turn a weekend into something memorable? These are my five favourite UK day rides — big scenery, proper climbs, and the kind of roads you'll be talking about long after. Whether you're chasing a challenge or just a brilliant day out, there's one here for you.
1. Applecross Pass, Scotland
Deep in the Highlands, the Applecross Pass (Bealach na Bà) is a bucket-list climb. From the remote village of Applecross it ramps up to 626m through a series of hairpins, with views of the rugged west coast that more than repay the effort. It takes planning to reach the start — and it's worth every mile of the journey.
2. Camel Valley & the North Cornwall coast
This one's close to my heart — it's where I grew up riding. From Wadebridge, follow the Camel Trail (an old railway line) along the estuary to Padstow, then out to the coast road for a few punchy climbs and big North Atlantic views. Head inland across the wild Goss Moor before dropping into the quiet valley below.
3. Brecon Beacons, South Wales
For a real test, start and finish in Cardiff and head into the Brecon Beacons National Park. You'll ride past the Craig Cerrig-gleisiad nature reserve and the Talybont and Pontsticill reservoirs, with demanding climbs and sweeping mountain scenery throughout. Not one for the faint-hearted — and all the more satisfying for it.
4. The South Downs Way (off-road)
Up for gravel? The South Downs Way runs 100 miles from Winchester to Eastbourne over chalk downland and rolling fields, past landmarks like Chanctonbury Ring and the Long Man of Wilmington. Stop at Cadence Cycle Club on Truleigh Hill for coffee and a pastry with Channel views, then finish with a sea dip and fish and chips at Qualisea in Eastbourne. Ride back, or take the train — you've earned the rest.
5. Yorkshire Dales from Harrogate
Based on the brutal Struggle Dales Sportive, this one's as tough as it is beautiful. From the spa town of Harrogate you'll take on some of the region's hardest climbs — Park Rash and Greenhow Hill among them — across moorland and through quaint Dales villages. It'll push you to your limit, and reward you with some of the finest views in England.
Pick one, or chase all five
Each of these is a proper day in the saddle, and a great excuse to explore closer to home. Whichever you choose, ride a bike that's happy all day — our road bikes are built fit-first for exactly this. Happy riding.
Read next: Box Hill: how much faster is an e-bike?
