The UK is one of europes hotspots for various bike rides of all disaplins. There is an increasing popularity for coast to coast bike rides which give you great satisfaction in a scenic start and end point. We’ve hand picked what we believe are some of the top coast to coast rides to tackle in 2025 and beyond.
Ilfracombe to Plymouth – South Coast
A family friendly route with many sections being traffic-free and flat. The ilfracombe to plymouth ride is the lesser known route to the northern c2c routes but is definitely one for the to do list. Linking the coasts of north and south devon combined with the valleys and rivers of the west country.
The 99 mile route follows the sustrans route 27 which is a very well marked trail that takes you along the former railway line of the tarka trail towards Meeth, before linking on some quiet roads towards oakhampton. Movving on to the granite way which takes you 11 miles towards luydford. Another quiet road link (8 miles) will then bring you to the Drakes trail, a breathtakingly beautiful road which brings you right into Plymouth. The highlight being the stunning Gem Bridge which sits 24m above round with its huge arches, its bound to give you shakey knees!
On arrival to plymouth you’ll bring yourself down to ‘The Hoe’ giving you breathtaking sea views and a well deserved sit down at one of its many cafes and restaurants!
Wondering how to get back? The joy of this coast to coast is you can pop on the train from plymouth all the way back to Barnstaple. Approximately 2 hours with one changeover in exeter then from Barnstaple there is plenty of firms offering services back to ilfracombe
Looking for an extra challenge? Why not head onto france as the route 27 links up to the Velodyssey which after taking the plymouth to roscoff ferry you can continue your ride down to the spanish border.
Highlights
The tarka trail – 37miles of traffic free cycling with views of the taw estuary and into the countryside.
The Drakes trail – stunning views of the country and a ride across the Gem bridge.
Plymouth – the hoe seafront, your end point, great views, plenty of eateries and accommodation.
Top tip – Ilfracombe to Braunton is a little hilly so it can be worth starting from Braunton which also gives an easier transfer back from barnstaple (only a 20 minute cycle or under 10 minute drive).
Resources:
Tarka Trail Bike Hire – Bike collection available from plymouth
Sustrans route 27 – https://www.sustrans.org.uk/find-a-route-on-the-national-cycle-network/route-27/
Plymouth accommodation – https://www.visitplymouth.co.uk/accommodationIlfracombe where to stay – https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotels-g191252-Ilfracombe_Devon_England-Hotels.html
Whitehaven to Sunderland C to C
One of the most popular coast to coast bike rides in the UK. The C2C (which actually is short for Sea 2 Sea not ‘Coast 2 Coast’ as commonly thought) is a classic long distance cycle route which passes through the beautiful penines and through 4 countries across north england.
Highlights
Honister Pass: A challenging climb but its all worth it with the breathtaking views you get!
Borrowdale Valley: Another Beautiful valley to cycle through to take in the breathtaking scenery.
Waskerley Way – impressive views of the moorland before you head to the hownsgill viaduct.
Stats:
Total Elevation – 11,150feet
Distance – 137miles
Terrain – Approx 60% Road, 30% path, 10% unpathed path
Bike types – Road or Hybrid Bike
Duration – 3 to 5 days (2 days for the experienced that want a really challenge)
Resources:
Map and gxp route – https://cycle.travel/map/journey/75
Group bike hire
C2C on route accommodation – https://independenthostels.co.uk/c2c-cycle-route-accommodation/
From the start in morecombe (where you will take the obligatory photo with the Eric morecombe statue!) the route meanders up the river lune valley, these beautiful cycleways will take you 35km towards the yorkshire dales which is full of scenic market towns and accompanied by some challenging climbs.
Dont forget to stop in settle for its infamous cakes which also makes a good stop to recharge before you head up over the moors. Tackle the hills across the moors and up and over the cobbled climbs. It’ll all be worth it when you see the spectacular panoramic views!
Down from stump cross cavern you’ll be treated to some long rolling descents all the way down to pateley bridge before you take in the geology of brimham rocks and its natural stone formations.
Cycling on you will have passed the majority of climbs. The next stops being the market towns of ripon and boroughbridge before you reach the historic city of York.
After a refresh and overnight stop (usually) in york you’ll be grateful for a relatively easy day heading towards Bridlington. Celebratory Fish and chips needs to be on the menu for the finish!
Resources:
Way of the roses map – https://cycle.travel/map/journey/81
Accomodation on route – http://wayoftheroses.info/accommodation/
From the start in morecombe (where you will take the obligatory photo with the Eric morecombe statue!) the route meanders up the river lune valley, these beautiful cycleways will take you 35km towards the yorkshire dales, full of scenic market towns and accompanied by some challenging climbs.
Dont forget to stop in settle for its infamous cakes which also makes a good stop to recharge before you head up over the moors. Tackle the hills across the moors and up and over the cobbled climbs. It’ll all be worth it when you see the spectacular panoramic views!
Down from stump cross cavern you’ll be treated to some long rolling descents all the way down to pateley bridge before you take in the geology of brimham rocks and its natural stone formations.
Cycling on you will have passed the majority of climbs. The next stops being the market towns of ripon and boroughbridge before you reach the historic city of York.
After a refresh and overnight stop (usually) in york you’ll be grateful for a relatively easy day heading towards Bridlington. Celebratory Fish and chips needs to be on the menu for the finish!
Resources:
Way of the roses map – https://cycle.travel/map/journey/81
Accomodation on route – http://wayoftheroses.info/accommodation/
Coast to Coast Overview:
As an overview, the various coast to coast bike rides in the UK offer a range of options for all abilities. We highly recommend the Devon Coast to Coast as a starting point for new cyclists up for a challenge.
The northen C2C rides offer a great challenge for all and can be split into as many days as you’d like. But the main things is, enjoy riding your bike! 🙂
If your looking for support or bike hire on any rides throughout the UK we can offer tailored packages for groups.