MILTON KEYNES

With Britain’s most extensive urban cycle-path network – the Redway, many going through parkland and lakes – Milton Keynes is great for family-friendly, car-free leisure rides. Road cycling thrives in the gentle Bucks countryside too. With excellent train and car access, friendly local pubs and all-budget accommodation options, Milton Keynes is a pleasant cycling surprise.

ROUTE ONE

Canal country 65 miles Heart of England countryside Sample a morning coffee at Salcey Forest, then follow the quiet country roads through canalside villages. Ride through the gently rolling hills to join NCN50 to pass Stowe’s grand arch to Buckingham, where you’ll find a choice of pubs and cafés. Tiny back lanes and the characterful old Watling Street see you return to Milton Keynes. Get the route: tinyurl.com/cplus-miltonheart

ROUTE TWO

Bucks fizz 58 miles Cosy villages, little lanes The ride starts with a climb up to Aspley Heath to take in the views followed by easy countryside roads through pretty villages. Stop in Quainton for lunch (picnic on the green or visit a pub/café) then enjoy more of the same. There are plenty of places to stop for tea in Winslow before returning to Milton Keynes. Get the route: tinyurl.com/cplus-miltoncosy

ROUTE THREE

Total MK 33 miles Car-free lakes and parks This route is an easy, flat, 95 per cent car-free, all-tarmac family delight based on Milton Keynes’s lovely Millennium Route. Lakes, rivers and canals aplenty, the original Milton Keynes village, and olde-towne Watling Street. You can easily shorten for kids or tired adults. Get the route: tinyurl.com/cplus-miltontotal