Family friendly cycle routes

It’s great to get out and about on a bike, even if you have very young children! If you are looking for a good cycle route in Shropshire which is suitable to ride with young children, why not try one of our family friendly routes? These are short, circular routes along traffic free paths or quiet lanes and are a great way to introduce your children to cycling.

1. Meander around the Meres: an easy nine mile route for all the family which starts at Colemere Country Park.

2. The Towpath Trail: starting at Heath House near Oswestry, this is a five mile, flat and off-road ride along the towpath suitable for older children

3. Market Drayton Away Day: An easy 15 mile route with a few short steep hills.

4. A Scenic Shrewsbury Ride: Starting in Shrewsbury, sections 1 to 4 are along traffic free and very quiet roads. The whole ride is 20 miles long.

If you would prefer a shorter trip; the section from the Quarry to Uffington is 10 miles return. A separate leaflet is available for this route called Traffic Free Adventures: Shrewsbury to Uffington

5. Going Loopy near Ludlow: 3 loops to choose from: the Ludlow Loop, 7.5 miles; a more challenging route with great views; and a fun 2 mile downhill ride through the forest.

6. The Plaish Pedaller: A pretty 10 mile cycle ride along quiet lanes with stunning views of Shropshire hills and ridges.

7. Cycling along the Severn Valley: An 8 mile return ride following Route 45 – the Mercian Way; a purpose built off road cycle track with views of the River Severn and Severn Valley Railway. If you are riding with young children consider just cycling the section from the Country Park to Hampton Loade which is all off-road, fairly flat and is a 5 mile return trip.

Also available are two guides to cycling with children Getting Started is a short, quick guide to starting cycling with young children. Alternatively, you can download the Family Cycle Guide, a 48 page booklet detailing everything you need to know about cycling with children in Shropshire. It includes information on choosing bikes and equipment for adults and children, learning to ride, bike maintenance and tips for riding safely.