Cycling along the Suffolk Coast offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, historical charm, and diverse landscapes that cater to both casual riders and avid cyclists. This picturesque region, with its serene coastline, rolling countryside, and quaint villages, provides an ideal backdrop for your cycling adventure.
Things to doPlaces to eatWhere to stayFrom bustling seaside towns to tranquil nature reserves, each ride presents an opportunity to explore the rich heritage and natural wonders of Suffolk.
One of the highlights of cycling on the Suffolk Coast is the Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape. This protected area spans over 150 square miles and encompasses a variety of habitats, including heathlands, woodlands, and estuaries. Cyclists can enjoy well-maintained trails that meander through the National Landscape offering breathtaking views of the coast and countryside.
The region is dotted with charming villages and historic towns that make for delightful stops along any cycling route. Aldeburgh, a coastal town known for its pebble beach and vibrant arts scene, is a must-visit. Cyclists can pause here to enjoy local seafood and relax by the sea. Further north, the town of Southwold, famous for its iconic lighthouse and beach huts, offers another picturesque stop. The journey between these towns, often along quiet country lanes and coastal paths, is as enjoyable as the destinations themselves.
For those interested in a more structured cycling experience, The Suffolk Coast is home to two National Cycle Network Routes: Cycle Route 1 is the main north/south route through Suffolk, travelling all the way from Stratford St Mary to Beccles, before entering Norfolk. Cycle Route 51 goes west/east, travelling from Cambridge to Felixstowe.
The Suffolk Coast Cycle Route provides a well-marked path that covers approximately 88 miles from Felixstowe to Lowestoft. This route offers a comprehensive tour of the Suffolk coastline, passing through areas of natural beauty and cultural interest. Along the way, cyclists can explore RSPB Minsmere, a renowned bird reserve, or visit Orford Ness, a shingle spit with a fascinating military history.
Cycling on the Suffolk Coast is not just about the physical journey but also about immersing oneself in the serene and unspoiled beauty of the region. Whether it’s a leisurely ride through the countryside, a challenging coastal route, or simply a day out exploring the local villages and attractions, The Suffolk Coast provides an unforgettable cycling experience that combines natural splendour with cultural richness.
Look for the 'cycle friendly' icon across our website or scroll down for cycle friendly places to stay, attractions and places to eat! All offering some provision and/or services for cyclists and bikes.
Road Cycling on The Suffolk
Road cycling on the Suffolk Coast offers an exhilarating experience, combining smooth tarmac with stunning coastal vistas and charming rural scenery. The region's relatively flat terrain and well-maintained roads make it accessible for cyclists of all skill levels, while the network of quiet country lanes provides a peaceful and enjoyable ride.
Enthusiasts can embark on routes like the Suffolk Coastal Cycle Route, which stretches from Felixstowe to Lowestoft, passing through picturesque towns such as Aldeburgh and Southwold. These rides offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural landmarks, with opportunities to visit historic sites, enjoy local cuisine, and soak in the serene coastal atmosphere.
Whether training for a race or simply enjoying a leisurely ride, road cycling on the Suffolk Coast promises a memorable and scenic adventure.
Click here for Road Cycling Routes on The Suffolk Coast
Off-Road Cycling on The Suffolk Coast
Off-road cycling on the Suffolk Coast offers an adventurous escape into the region's diverse and rugged landscapes. Enthusiasts can explore a variety of terrains, from sandy heathlands to dense woodlands and coastal trails. Rendlesham and Tunstall forests are prime spots for off-road cyclists, featuring well-marked trails like The Viking Way and UFO Trail; riders can enjoy the thrill of navigating through forested paths, tackling challenging gradients, and encountering wildlife in their natural habitats.
Head to Dunwich and you can take in a mix of coastal views, historical landmarks, and the tranquil beauty of the heath and forest provides a rich and varied off-road cycling experience that appeals to both seasoned cyclists and newcomers seeking an outdoor adventure.
Click here for off-road cycling routes on The Suffolk Coast
Leisure Cycling on The Suffolk Coast
Leisure cycling on The Suffolk Coast is an idyllic way to experience the region's beauty at a relaxed pace. The gently rolling terrain and quiet country lanes make it perfect for casual riders looking to enjoy a pleasant day out.
Cyclists can meander through charming villages like Thorpeness, with its quirky House in the Clouds and scenic meare, or pedal along the serene coastal paths that offer stunning sea views and fresh, salty air.
Routes like the Suffolk Coastal Cycle Route provide easy-to-follow paths that pass through picturesque towns such as Aldeburgh and Southwold, where riders can pause to enjoy local delicacies or explore historical sites.
Whether it's a family outing, a romantic ride, or a solo adventure, leisure cycling on the Suffolk Coast promises a delightful blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and serene landscapes, making every journey a memorable experience.
Click here for leisure cycle routes on The Suffolk Coast
ANNUAL CYCLE EVENTS ON THE SUFFOLK COAST
Cycle Hire
Southwold Cycle Hire
Southwold Cycle Hire you has a wide range of mountain bikes and all cycles available for hire, with helmet, lock and a pump also provided as standard. Bicycles with carriers, child seats and tag-alongs are also available on request so even toddlers and young children can still see the county in the best possible way.
There is no deposit necessary, and Southwold Cycle Hire’s flexible hire scheme means that you can rent a bike for any length of time from a day, right up to two weeks. Even better, their price scheme is designed so the longer you take your bike for, the more money you save!
Book online at https://www.southwoldcyclehire.co.uk/
Eezybike
Offering a Click and Collect E-bike rental service, you can book your preferred dates online and one of the Eezybike team will be there to greet you, with a run through and demo of the bikes. With super comfy seats, fat tyres and a step through design, you will be smiling for miles.
Head to the idyllic coastal village of Orford and the Jolly Sailor pub; using the click and collect service, you can explore nearby Rendlesham Forest, the River Deben and Woodbridge, and further on to Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh and Tunstall Forest.
Book online at https://eezybike.co.uk/
Cycle Breaks
Why not try a supported, gentle cycling holiday along the Suffolk Coast? Cycle Breaks are specialists in self-guided cycling holidays and bike tours. They will arrange your accommodation, luggage transportation, quality bike hire (or bring your own), along with delightful routes along quiet country lanes and mechanical assistance on call to give you peace of mind.
Book online at https://www.cyclebreaks.com/
Cycle Shops & Repairs
Sax Velo, 6 Brooke Farm Road, Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 1XT
Mandarin Cycles, 65 London Road South, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 0AS
Michael's Cycles, 2 Smallgate, Beccles, Suffolk NR34 9AB
Hasnip's Cycles, 3 Church Street, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1DH
Halfords, North Quay Retail Park, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR32 2ED
Halfords, Suffolk Retail Park, London Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 2EJ
Take a look below to find cycle-friendly places to stay, places to eat and things to do on The Suffolk Coast!