The best traffic-free bike rides in Chilterns Aonb

There are over 190 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes in the Chilterns AONB, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find everything from easier rides to more challenging routes with significant climbs.

Yes, the Chilterns AONB offers many easy no traffic road cycling routes, with over 70 routes specifically rated as 'easy'. A great option for a relaxed ride is the Temperance Hall, Chesham – A Little Street Kitchen loop from Chesham, which covers nearly 39 km with minimal elevation gain. The Phoenix Trail, a 5-mile traffic-free path between Thame and Princes Risborough, is also excellent for families and beginners.

For those seeking a challenge, the Chilterns' undulating terrain provides plenty of opportunities. There are 118 moderate and 7 difficult no traffic road cycling routes. Consider the Aldbury Village Pond – Ivinghoe Beacon Climb loop from Chesham, a 90 km route with over 800 meters of elevation gain, offering a good workout and stunning views.

The routes often pass through picturesque villages and offer access to stunning natural features. You can enjoy panoramic views from spots like Coombe Hill Viewpoint or Ivinghoe Beacon. Many routes also lead past beautiful lakes such as Marsworth Reservoir or Shardeloes Lake, perfect for a scenic break.

Yes, many of the no traffic road cycling routes in the Chilterns AONB are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Winchmore Hill – Marlow Suspension Bridge loop from Great Missenden is a moderate 65 km circular route that takes you through varied landscapes.

Parking availability varies by starting point. Many routes begin near villages or market towns that offer public car parks. For routes starting in more rural areas, look for designated parking spots near trailheads or consider using public transport to reach your starting point.

The Chilterns are beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and stunning scenery with wildflowers or changing leaves. Summer is ideal for longer rides, though some sections might see more local traffic during peak hours. Winter cycling is also possible, but be prepared for colder weather and potentially muddy sections on unpaved parts of some routes.

The komoot community highly rates the no traffic road cycling experience in the Chilterns AONB, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, scenic minor roads, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the charming villages encountered along the way. The chance to spot red kites and enjoy the unique chalk downland scenery is also frequently mentioned.

Absolutely. The Chilterns are known for their panoramic views. Coombe Hill, the highest point in the Chilterns, offers enchanting views over the Aylesbury Vale. Ivinghoe Beacon also provides expansive vistas across Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, and Bedfordshire. Many routes are designed to pass by these iconic spots.

Yes, the Chilterns are dotted with charming villages and market towns, many of which feature traditional country pubs and cafes. Routes like the Chiltern Velo Café – Temperance Hall, Chesham loop from Hughenden Valley are even named after popular cycling stops, making it easy to plan refreshment breaks during your ride.

While this guide focuses on individual no traffic routes, the wider Chilterns area is home to longer cycling trails. The 170-mile Chilterns Cycleway, for instance, offers a circular route traversing the entire AONB, primarily on minor roads. While not exclusively 'no traffic,' it provides a scenic, low-traffic experience through historic villages and National Trust properties.