Cycling UK launches epic new multi-day cycling challenge through the Chilterns

We have today unveiled a brand-new route for cyclists to explore, beginning in Reading. Royal Chilterns Way covers 282km/175 miles of off-road track through the breath-taking Chilterns, blending scenic trails, historic landmarks and charming local gems.

The route joins our eight other long-distance cycling challenges: Marcher Castles Way, King Alfred’s Way, Traws Eryri, Rebellion Way, Cantii Way, West Kernow Way, Great North Trail and North Downs Way.

With a total 3,383m/11,100ft in climbing, Royal Chilterns Way offers competent riders a challenge. The multiday route is designed to be the ideal introduction to bikepacking, allowing riders to tackle it in segments, or for the more adventurous, the whole route.

With excellent transport connections along the way, it’s readily accessible by public transport, being served by two London Underground lines and multiple overland stations. Although it runs through scenic countryside, it’s close to major towns and road networks, too.

The 282km route consists of three loops that intersect, so you can easily ride just some of it if the full distance seems daunting.

As well as rolling hills and ancient woodland, there’s plenty more to see along the way. There are stately homes and historic buildings, such as the Royal Abbey in Reading, the semi-fortified Chennies Manor House and the remains of Berkhamsted Castle, which dates back to the 11th century.

It’s this regal heritage that accounts for the ‘Royal’ in the route name. There’s also lots of wildlife to spot, ranging from lizards, deer and red kites through to wallabies, which have thrived after escaping from local zoos and private collections. As well as marsupials and medieval mansions, there’s an abundance of cafés and pubs.

A comprehensive guidebook, written by route creator Max Darkins, contains everything you need to plan your ride. It includes detailed maps, navigation and what to look out for along the way, as well as practical advice so you can make the most of your ride.

The book is part of a series of guidebooks for each of our routes to purchase, with funds going towards future routes. Each guidebook is spiral bound and produced to be hardwearing, with weather-resistant covers so they can be used out on the trail.

Hannah Foster, Head of Membership at Cycling UK, said:  “Long-distance cycle routes are one of the best ways to explore Britain. They connect cities, towns and villages and bring real benefits to local communities by supporting regional economies.

“They also offer a healthier, greener way to discover the incredible corners of our countryside that are impossible to access by car.

“By joining Cycling UK as a member, you can help support the creation of even more iconic, inspiring routes that make cycle adventures more accessible to everyone. You’ll also be the first to know when we launch something new!”

Max Darkins, Ride Guide and Route Planner, added: “Growing up in the Chilterns sparked my passion for cycling and inspired a lifelong love of the area.

“This lesser-known part of the South-East has so much to offer and in working closely with Cycling UK we 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. And to top it off, the area is just bursting with farm shops, cafés, vineyards, breweries and country pubs.

“We all known how much cycling can improve our physical and mental health, and with every new route launched, we introduce that to more and more people.”