Three unmissable UK rides

Make the most of a motorbike holiday with Sykes Cottages

Posted: 7 November 2012
by Sykes Cottages

Photo attribution: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Two wheels aren't just the best way to tackle rush hour traffic on the way to work. A motorbike is one of the best ways to explore everything the UK has to offer. So, next time you pack up for a few days away, why not dust down your leathers and take the bike along for the journey too! A self-catering cottage is normally a great way to make the most of a motorbike holiday as many cottages provide parking so you can rest easy knowing your bike is safe.

Here is our guide to three unmissable rides in some of the most scenic parts of the country:

Trowbridge to Poole

A 50-mile ride which takes you from Wiltshire to the Dorset coast in little over an hour. Winding country roads take you towards the sea in a journey which maximises views of the English countryside. If you're the only biker in your party, this short ride means you can get out on the road without abandoning the rest of your group for too long. Between April and September, it's worth heading to Poole Quay on a Tuesday night when the whole area shuts down for bike night and the streets are packed full of motorbikes competing for 'bike of the week'. Spend a few hours watching the sun go down with your fellow bikers in one of many quay-side restaurants and soak up the carnival atmosphere.

Eskdale to Ambleside

This route which includes the notorious Hardknott Pass is reserved for particularly confident bikers. The 1 in 3 gradient, making it the record-equalling steepest road in the UK, means the route is not a road for rookies. Bikers who make it to the top of the pass are never disappointed with far-reaching views across the Lakes and fresh air on the descent. The 40-mile journey snakes its way up and down some of the Lakes' highest peaks making it a knockout of a ride. You'll find plenty of biker-friendly accommodation and restaurants across the Lake District making for a thoroughly enjoyable trip. Visit Sykes Cottages' website to find Lake District cottages near to great motorcycling routes.

Chester to Llangollen

When planning your route, make sure to include the A542, known to many as the Horseshoe Pass, so called because of the shape the road makes as it tracks around the valley. Although the road reaches a peak of some 14,000 ft above sea-level, the gently ascending road is suitable for all riders, from newbies to old hands. It is well worth stopping at the Ponderosa Cafe situated on the Horseshoe Pass itself, which is well known for being biker-friendly. It makes a great meeting place for groups or to survey the world below. This route is ideally located if you are holidaying in Wales or northwest England and you fancy exploring on two wheels.