LOCAL KNOWLEDGE ROYAL LEAMINGTON SPA

eamington Spa gained its ‘Royal’ appellation when Queen Victoria visited for a dip in the town’s mineral spring baths. The old bath house is now an arts centre and museum, but there’s still the opportunity to enjoy the restorative properties of taking to two wheels on the lovely lanes around the town. The Cotswolds are just down the road and historic houses and castles abound.

LROUTE ONE

Cotswolds Approach 54 miles Historic Houses and Hills Leaving Leamington on a fairly busy road, this route quickly picks up quieter lanes and gets lumpier with the steep climb to Burton Dassett country park, where spectacular views are to be had. There’s plenty more climbing approaching the Cotswolds, before a flat and easy ride back to Leamington. Get the route

ROUTE TWO

Canals and Cafes 45 miles Teacakes and Towpaths An undemanding ride with a few short climbs. The route heads east, loosely following the Grand Union Canal – a reminder of the region’s industrial heritage, though there’s little sign of it in the quiet villages you pass through. There’s a café in Willoughby and another later on at the National Agricultural Centre. Get the route