Would you like a self-guided electric bike holiday in the UK that offers relaxed gentle cycling, together with plenty to see and do en-route? With miles of quiet tracks to enjoy from the comfort of your electric bike, the National Forest could be your perfect holiday destination.
Situated in the centre of England, and covering 200 square miles, the region combines splendid and varied cycling over gentle terrain, with sights for every interest. Although just over 25 years old, the Forest offers a varied and changing landscape, rich in culture and history. Since creation, over 8.5 million trees have been planted, complementing and blending with existing ancient woodland.
One of the benefits of an electric bike holiday in the National Forest is the variety of things to see, all within easy cycling distance. Some of the highlights include:
National Trust properties of Calke Abbey and Stoneywell
Majestic Calke Abbey and cosy Stoneywell perfectly demonstrate the diversity of properties cared for by the National Trust. Tucked away in the Charnwood Forest, the original contents of Stoneywell cottage offer an insight into the Arts and Crafts movement. Calke Abbey is set in acres of glorious parkland and tells the story of the demise of the country house estate. Over the years the house became crammed with collections and discarded objects, which the National Trust has preserved as they found it.
A visit to the National Brewery Centre in the beer brewing capital of the UK, Burton on Trent is a must for anyone interested in the heritage of their pint. The brewing tradition is being kept alive by the many microbreweries found throughout the Forest area, many of whom welcome visitors.
Built around a 150 acre arboretum, the site includes over 300 memorials to honour the fallen and recognise service to the country. Send time wandering through the tranquil landscape and learn more about the different memorials.
The Great Central Railway is the UK's only double track, main line heritage railway. The 5.25 miles of working double track, allow visitors to enjoy the experience of full size steam trains passing each other as they travel between the four stations on the line. Each of the stations has been restored to a different period, reflecting the history of the line. The Great Central Railway offers a wide variety of events throughout the year.
After his death in the Battle of Bosworth, the remains of King Richard III lay undiscovered in Leicester until 2012. Set in stunning countryside, the Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre describes the history of the battle and explains how archeologists discovered the location of ing Richard's remains.
Explore the ruins and climb the tower of Ashby Castle, close to the centre of Ashby de la Zouch. Built in the 15th century, the castle was the family seat of the Hastings family and was used as a stronghold during the Civil War. It featured in Sir Walter Scott's novel Ivanhoe, after which it became an attraction for visitors. Today it is managed by English Heritage.
Racing fans will love a visit to the world's largest collection of Grand Prix cars. The collection includes vehicles driven by some of the greatest names in the history of F1. Alongside the Grand Prix collection, visitors can also enjoy several halls of military exhibits, which include tanks, armoured vehicles and rare Harley Davidsons.
We look forward to helping you find your perfect electric bike holiday in the National Forest. Find out more about the National Forest here.
Photo credit: Ben Hall and Jacqui Rock