Leisure cycling

Pedal at your own pace and uncover the gentle charm of Warwickshire’s countryside on two wheels. Leisure cycling here is all about freedom—meandering through quiet lanes, past golden fields, historic villages, and along tranquil canal paths. Glide through the rolling hills of the south, where Shakespeare’s legacy lingers in the air and riverside trails invite peaceful pauses. Or venture north to discover hidden gems tucked between Roman roads and leafy byways, where cosy pubs and market towns offer the perfect excuse to stop and savour the moment. Whether you're chasing views or simply the joy of the ride, Warwickshire welcomes you to slow down and explore. 

 

phto of a pool with accessible angling pegs and picnic benches

Oxford – Stratford upon Avon

Route 5

Visit Shakespeare's hometown

After leaving Oxford you head towards Burntwood. Here, Route 5 forms much of the West Midlands cycle route.

Traffic-free sections include the Stratford Greenway between Long Marston and Stratford-upon-Avon and the Rea Valley Route in Birmingham.

Stratford-upon-Avon is well-known for being the birthplace of Shakespeare. It’s a market town with a rich history and many old buildings. It makes for a pleasant stopping off point .

Sustrans Route 5
woman proudly holding a tench caught in on of our pools

Stratford upon Avon - Warwick

Route 41

The route north of Cheltenham is under development, though sections are open between Tewkesbury and Evesham on unsurfaced bridleway, and between Stratford and Rugby. These offer the opportunity for pleasant, short rides. A particular highlight is the Offchurch Greenway, which was formerly part of the Leamington to Rugby railway line. This flat, surfaced footpath and cycleway offers exceptional views across South Warwickshire along its one and a half miles.

Route 41 is a lovely ride through beautiful English countryside which also takes in charming towns and cities such as Stratford-upon-Avon, known as the birthplace of Shakespeare, and Gloucester, where you can visit the medieval cathedral.

Sustrans Route 41
Cyclist at Stratford Greenway

Stratford Greenway

The Stratford Greenway is a 5 mile, traffic-free, five-mile path in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, that follows the route of a former railway line. It's a popular destination for walkers and cyclists, offering a safe and scenic route through the countryside and connecting the town centre with the village of Long Marston. 

The path is separated from vehicular traffic, making it a safe option for families and those who prefer a car-free environment.

It follows the course of the old Honeybourne Line, a single-track railway closed in 1976.

The Greenway is part of the National Cycle Network, specifically a section of the West Midlands Cycle Route.

The route passes through diverse landscapes, including open fields, fruit trees, and alongside the River Avon.

Stratford Greenway