5 Reasons to Cycle the UK
With a long, rich history, fascinating culture and proud heritage, the UK offers visitors a journey that is jam-packed with excitement, intrigue and wonder. Visit historic monuments, explore royal palaces, peruse exquisite works of art and take in the many sights, sounds and decadent tastes of this incredible destination. One of the best ways to experience the UK is by bike – in fact, it almost seems as if this entire area was specially designed for cyclists. If you enjoy combining riding with amazing travel experiences, here are 5 reasons you should bring your bike and cycle the UK.
Cotswolds
Who doesn’t enjoy visiting areas of outstanding beauty? Well, that’s exactly the term that’s been applied to this range of hills located in southwestern and west-central England. In fact, if you’ve ever seen a picture of beautiful green pastures and breathtaking landscapes of the English countryside on a calendar or in a magazine, there’s a good chance it was a shot of the Cotswolds. This lovely range of hills spans an area of 25 miles, weaving its way through six counties. Along the way there are many peaceful towns and villages, most of which are constructed of Cotswold stone, or limestone, which is rich in fossils. The Cotswolds possess a long, fascinating history with ties to the Middle Ages and beyond. It’s a magnificently beautiful place to explore, and perfect for a leisurely bike ride!
Gardens
Given the amount of precipitation the UK has become known for, it’s no surprise that the landscape is lush, green and teeming with life. This makes it the ideal environment for gardens to flourish, and while there is certainly no shortage, three in particular stand out as must-sees. The Hidcote Manor Garden is considered to be one of the most influential gardens in Britain. It features rooms made entirely out of hedges, herbaceous borders and a variety of rare trees and shrubs. The entire garden, which was started over 70 years ago by Lawrence Johnston, provides a unique experience of contrasting colors and textures.
Wakehurst Place combines a magnificent 16th century mansion with a spectacular 20th century garden. Covering an area of 500 acres, the gardens of Wakehurst Place contain everything from water and walls to woodlands and wetlands. It also happens to be home to England’s largest live Christmas tree, a giant redwood which stands at an incredible 35 meters tall. It is festively lit from Advent until Twelfth Night using 1,800 lights.
Finally there are the Kiftsgate Court Gardens, the beautiful result of three generations of hardworking women gardeners. The grounds of the garden are comprised of a variety of vibrant and fragrant flowers, hedges and trees. It has become most known for the Kiftsgate rose, a scented climbing rose plant, and Kiftsgate Court, a fantastic manor house that serves as home to the owners and a focal point of the grounds.
Royal Shakespeare Theatre
Who doesn’t love a good theatre production? More importantly, who knows theatre better than famed playwright and poet, William Shakespeare? No trip to the UK would be complete without a stop at this spectacular thrust stage auditorium, which seats 1,040 guests and is situated right on the waterfront of the River Avon. Aside, of course, from the many theatrical performances that can be enjoyed here, there are plenty of other things to do and see. There’s a trail that brings visitors through the route of the theatre’s history, a family play area and a tower from which you can enjoy incredible views of Shakespeare’s hometown below. You can even enjoy a delicious meal in the rooftop restaurant. It’s an unforgettable experience to say the least!
Sudeley Castle
This massive 15th century structure located near Gloucestershire, England presents the perfect example of a traditional medieval castle, with its imposing stone finish and impressive towers. The castle possesses a long, sordid past and serves as the final resting place for Queen Catherine Parr, King Henry VIII’s sixth wife. Unlike other castles in the area, however, Sudeley’s chapel is actually part of the Church of England and the castle itself remains in residence to this day. It’s also become known for the rumors that its quarters are haunted. Many people who have visited the castle claim to have seen a number of ghostly apparitions, including that of a woman wearing a green Tudor style dress. For those who are less inclined to believe in ghost stories, there are guided tours of the castle and beautiful grounds to enjoy.
Worcestershire
Located in the west-midlands of England, this county offers visitors all of the charm and authenticity that one could hope for on a visit to the UK. It also happens to be a fantastic place to cycle, particularly due to the many rural areas located there. Like most English counties, Worcestershire boasts a long history which has helped to shape it into the lovely and welcoming destination it is today. Evidence of that history can be seen and felt almost everywhere you look, particularly in the many ancient buildings and monuments that can be found throughout the area. One of the most popular among visitors is the Worcester Cathedral, a fantastic structure that rests on a hill overlooking the River Severn. The church was constructed between 1084 and 1504, and presents a fascinating representation of every style of English architecture ever used.
When you imagine the perfect getaway, what does it entail? Does it include a historical journey? Cultural discovery? How about a blissful bike ride through magnificent lush countryside? If these things intrigue you and arouse your sense of adventure, then the UK is your ideal destination. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your bike, head on over and experience for yourself everything this incredible destination has to offer!