The National Cycle Network
We have lots of inspiration and information to help you discover more of the Network.
The National Cycle Network is a UK-wide network of signed paths and routes for walking, wheeling, cycling and exploring outdoors.
In this new video, we're sharing the inspirational stories which show the difference the National Cycle Network is making to lives across the UK.
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Find a route on the National Cycle Network
Browse the hundreds of routes on the National Cycle Network and find the perfect walking and cycling route for you.Find a route on the National Cycle Network -
Barriers on the National Cycle Network
Find out what barriers are, why they're on the National Cycle Network and how you can get a restrictive barrier redesigned as part of our barrier toolkit.Barriers on the National Cycle Network -
Making space for nature on the National Cycle Network
In the face of a national climate and ecological emergency, traffic-free paths of the National Cycle Network have the power to improve biodiversity and protect wildlife.How we're making space for nature on the National Cycle Network -
Map of the National Cycle Network
If you’d like to see routes across the UK on an interactive map, head over to the Ordnance Survey website.
We’ve teamed up with them to help you plan your trip and navigate your way around the UK.
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Official ߣߣÊÓƵ cycle maps
Plan a whole year of National Cycle Network adventures with our regional and long-distance cycle maps.
Your purchase supports our work to make it easier for everyone to walk, wheel and cycle.
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Our plans to improve the National Cycle Network
Our plans to improve the National Cycle NetworkWe have an ambition to improve the whole of the Network over the next few years to benefit everyone.
Download your free traffic-free routes guides
Download one or more of our free guides to easy, traffic-free trails on the National Cycle Network.
About the National Cycle Network
Our vision is to create a UK-wide network of safe and accessible traffic-free paths for everyone.
We want the Network to:
- be wide enough for all users
- be cared for and well maintained
- have a smooth surface
- be clearly and consistently signed
- be fully accessible to everyone
- feel safe.
Take a look at our 9 design principles that all National Cycle Network routes should meet.
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Read about the progress we're making to improve the Network.
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Find out how we're improving accessibility on the National Cycle Network.
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We're updating the signage on the National Cycle Network
When you're out on the Network, please be aware that the signage you see may not reflect recent changes to our online mapping.
We're working hard with our volunteers and partners to update these signs.
Find out how you can help to look after the Network near you.
Follow the little red signs on the National Cycle Network
When you're browsing the list of routes on our website, keep an eye out for the Follow the red signs symbol.
When you see it, it means the whole of the route is on the National Cycle Network.
And when you're on the route, follow the little red signs to navigate it.
Find other routes
We've got lots of cycling routes on our website for inspiration.
But some of these routes may contain sections that are not on the National Cycle Network and are better suited to more experienced cyclists.
Keep an eye out for the hexagon on our route pages. This symbol means that some or all of the route is not on the Network.
ߣߣÊÓƵ and the Network
As custodians of the National Cycle Network, it's our role to care for it, improve it and champion a long-term vision for its future.
ߣߣÊÓƵ only owns around 271 miles, or 2%, of the Network.
The rest belongs to various landowners, who are ultimately responsible for their own stretch.Ìý
However, ߣߣÊÓƵ staff and volunteers help these landowners to maintain, improve and develop their routes.
Read more about our role as custodians of the National Cycle Network.
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The National Cycle Network brings huge benefits to the UK's economy and improves people's health and wellbeing. In 2019-20 an estimated:
4.2 million
people used the Network
70.9 million
car trips were saved by using the Network
£1.64 billion
was spent in local businesses by leisure and tourist users
£21.5 million
was saved by the NHS through the Network's impact on people's health
Route inspiration and ideas
Share, respect and enjoy the Network
We want everyone to be able to use the Network safely, confidently and in line with government guidelines on Covid-19.
Using the National Cycle Network
If you're looking to get out on the National Cycle Network for the first time, why not check out these helpful tips and pointers.Ìý
Improving the National Cycle Network
Our Paths for Everyone review sets out our future vision and plans to make the National Cycle Network safer and more accessible for everyone.
Find out more about Paths for Everyone