A long weekend and a clear forecast is about as good as it gets for a rider. So if you are wondering where to point the bike this bank holiday, we have pulled together five of our favourite routes right on Grafton's doorstep, taking in Milton Keynes, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and the beautiful Chilterns. There is something here for a quick blast, a lazy loop and a proper full day out.
Pop in and see us on the Saturday if you fancy it, we are open as usual, then pick your route and enjoy the long weekend.
1. The twisty one: the Chilterns escarpment
Head south towards Ivinghoe Beacon, Wendover and Tring and you are into some of the best riding country in the region. Carry on towards Berkhamsted and the Ashridge Estate and you are into the loveliest corner of Hertfordshire. Sweeping B-roads, big views from the top of the escarpment and pretty villages tucked into the folds of the hills.
Roughly: a half day, and endlessly rewarding. Why we love it: proper flowing roads that reward smooth, tidy riding.
2. The scenic loop: Woburn and the Greensand Ridge
Almost on the doorstep, the roads around Woburn and the Greensand Ridge are a joy. Stately parkland, ancient woodland, the odd deer, and handsome estate villages to roll through. An easy, gentle loop that still feels like a proper ride out.
Roughly: an hour or two, easily stretched. Why we love it: big scenery for very little effort.
3. The breakfast run: Olney and the Ouse valley
North of Milton Keynes lies Olney, a handsome market town on the Great Ouse and a lovely spot to aim for. Quiet lanes get you there, and it is the sort of place made for a coffee, a wander and a natter about bikes before you head home.
Roughly: a relaxed morning. Why we love it: low effort, high reward, and a genuinely pretty destination.
4. The gentle one: the Bedfordshire lanes
If you are newer to riding, easing back in, or you just want a relaxed spin, the quiet lanes around Ampthill, Millbrook and Woburn Sands are hard to beat. Little traffic, easy going and a nice way to build confidence.
Roughly: 30 to 40 miles at your own pace. Why we love it: all the pleasure of riding, none of the pressure.
5. The big day out: west to the Cotswolds
When you want to make a real day of it, run west through Buckingham and beyond towards the Cotswolds. The villages get prettier by the mile and the roads open up beautifully. Fuel up, pack your waterproofs whatever the forecast says, and give yourself the whole day.
Roughly: a full, memorable day out. Why we love it: it is the ride you will still be talking about next weekend.
Make a weekend of it
However you spend the bank holiday, give the bike a quick once-over before you set off, ride your own ride, and enjoy every mile. And if you want to pop in beforehand, we are open on the Saturday and always happy to talk bikes
