Cycle Routes
Cycle through a living masterpiece! Discover the beautiful landscape of the Stour Valley and Dedham Vale Area of Natural Beauty (AONB) with over 69 miles of interesting cycle routes through historic towns and villages.
The Painters’ Trail
7 Routes covering 69 miles
There are over 69 miles of cycle routes to explore through the stunning Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and Stour Valley. Explore interesting routes, locations of historical importance and stunning scenery. Create a truly challenging ride by linking the routes together!
Cycling in Stoke by Nayland
Touring Route: 14.6 miles (moderate to hard)
Short Route: 6.7 miles (moderate)
Explore the immediate vicinity of Apple Tree Lodges with an attractive cycle route through Stoke by Nayland, taking in views across the Stour Valley and the quaint village and hamlets.
Cycling in Bures and Nayland
Touring Route: 13.3 miles (easy to moderate)
Short Route: 7.7 miles (easy to moderate)
Starting in Bures, this pretty route heads through the lower part of the Stour River valley. Cycle past charming villages, discovering historical sites along the way. See if you can spot the Bures Dragon!
Cycling in Dedham
Touring Route: 13.9 miles (easy)
Short Route: 8.4 miles (easy)
Explore Constable Country on two wheels! This easy-going route takes you through the historic village of Dedham, into the countryside that inspired a number of John Constable’s paintings in the Dedham Vale AONB.
Cycling in Long Melford
Touring Route: 12.6 miles (easy to moderate)
Short Route: 8.5 miles (easy to moderate)
Cycle through one of the country’s longest tree-lined village streets, exploring the medieval wool town of Long Melford, also famous for its antique shops, and some beautiful villages in North Essex on this lovely route.
Cycling in Clare
Touring Route: 12.8 miles (moderate)
Short Route: 8.9 miles (moderate)
Beginning at Clare Castle, enjoy a picturesque ride through medieval villages that are steeped in religious history. Heading up the hills is well worth it to take in the stunning views across the Stour Valley!
Cycling in Bures and Sudbury
Touring Route: 19.1 miles (moderate to hard) Short Route: 9.8 miles (moderate to hard) Enjoy a scenic cycle ride along the River Stour, taking in views of unspoilt villages and the beautiful countryside. There are some steep hills which may test you on this route!
Cycling in Hartest and Glemsford
Touring Route: 9.4 miles (moderate)
Short Route: 6 miles (moderate)
A wonderful rural route through villages in High Suffolk, overlooking the beautiful hills of the Glem Valley and taking in fantastic views across the Suffolk countryside.