Cycling UK has launched its newest addition to its Adventure Route Series, the Royal Chilterns Way. It’s a 280km gravel route that begins in Reading and takes in the Chiltern Hills, linking up countryside, historic sites, and local gems.
Adventure Route Series
Cycling UK has been busy over the last few years, launching several new longer-distance routes, including the King Alfred’s Way and Traws Eyri. Now, the Royal Chilterns Way is added to the Adventure Route Series designed by the charity.
The Adventure Route Series includes long-distance routes designed for bikepacking within Britain, featuring natural landscapes and plenty of countryside.
The Royal Chilterns Way is named as such as it covers scenic trails within the Chilterns, also including several landmarks and “charming local gems.” It’s a 275km/171-mile route primarily featuring off-road tracks and is advertised as a gravel route.
There’s plenty of climbing to be had, too, with over 10,755ft/3,278m of elevation gained. The route can be done in one go or in segments, and Cycling UK says it’s the perfect introduction for those looking to get into bikepacking.
Where does the route go?
The start of the route from Reading is accessible via public transport, with two London Underground lines serving the area. If you want a route that’s not completely in the wilderness, this is ideal – yes, you get plenty of countryside and quiet vistas, but you’re also within touching distance of civilisation should you need it.
So what kind of terrain does it encompass? Lots of rolling hills, as you’d expect in the Chilterns, as well as ancient woodland and some singletrack. Along the route, you can see the Royal Abbey in Reading and the remains of Berkhamsted Castle as just a few of the historic landmarks.
Ride Guide and Route Planner for Cycling UK, Max Darkins commented on the launch of the new route:
“Growing up in the Chilterns sparked my passion for cycling and inspired a lifelong
love of the area and exploring the country by bike. This lesser-known part of the
South-east has so much to offer, and in working closely with Cycling UK, we have
carefully crafted a route that would give people the chance to escape and connect
with nature”.
“Out on the trail you get to experience everything that the Chilterns has to offer,
ranging from verdant landscapes to historic market towns, medieval earthworks and majestic rivers. What also excites us about this route is that it connects numerous
local businesses, from farm shops and cafés to vineyards, pubs, and a wide range of
unique accommodation. We all know how much cycling can improve our physical
and mental health, and with every new route launched, we make that accessible to
more people.”
If you want to download the route, members can do so from the Cycling UK website for free, and there is also a paper guidebook available to purchase, too.
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