Autumn's red carpet is officially rolled out. Now is the time to head outside and explore the National Cycle Network in its full autumn colour glory. From Scotland's lochside forests to Wales' mountain valleys and England's leafy greenways, the National Cycle Network offers countless opportunities to enjoy autumn at its best. We share with you nine of our favourite routes across the UK.
Now is the time to head outside and explore the National Cycle Network in its full autumn colour glory. Credit: John Linton
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England
Monsal Trail (Route 680), Peak District
Expect wow moments around every corner on this traffic-free route right in the heart of the Peak District National Park.
The Monsal Trail is lined with mature trees that create a tunnel of autumn colour.
Fallen leaves carpet the route while the limestone dales, woodlands and sweeping countryside views make it one of England's most picturesque autumn walks, wheels or rides.
Waterlink Way (Route 21), Greater London
Perfect for urban explorers, the Waterlink Way offers a tranquil escape from the capital.
Starting in southeast London, the route follows rivers, parks and green corridors through places such as Greenwich, Lewisham and Cator Park.
In autumn, the tree-lined sections are awash with gold and orange leaves. It's hard not to fall for autumn here.
Crab and Winkle Way (Route 1), Canterbury to Whitstable
Golden glory at its finest.
This former railway route connects the historic city of Canterbury with the Kent coast at Whitstable.
The woodland and tree-lined paths are particularly beautiful during October and November, with vibrant autumn colours framing the route.
It's the perfect combination of coast and countryside.
8 pumpkin picking patches on the National Cycle Network
In autumn, the tree-lined sections are awash with gold and orange leaves. It's hard not to fall for autumn on the National Cycle Network. Credit: Rafael Bastos
Scotland
Route 7, Aberfeldy to Pitlochry
If you're chasing autumn's greatest show, this route will not disappoint you.
A favourite across Scotland, the section between Aberfeldy and Pitlochry is a palette of vibrant colours.
With golden birch trees reflected in lochs and dramatic scenery, expect vibrant reds, oranges and golds across the Cairngorms.
Lochs and Glens South (Route 7), Dumfries and Galloway
Autumn is arguably the best time to discover some of Scotland's hidden gems.
Route 7 passes through beautifully remote scenery at Glentrool Forest and the cosy town of Newton Stewart.
What follows is a breath-taking journey through the heart of the Galloway Forest Park.
It's time to slow down, soak it in and enjoy the seasonal show.
If you're chasing autumn's greatest show, Route 7 between Pitlochry and Aberfeldy will not disappoint you. Credit: John Linton
Wales
Lôn Las Cymru (Route 8), Cardiff to Holyhead
Autumn brings vibrant colours to this are of Wales.
One of the UK's most iconic long-distance cycle routes, Lôn Las Cymru passes through the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog), Mid Wales forests and Snowdonia (Eryri).
Crunchy leaves and golden trees guaranteed.
Celtic Trail West (Route 4), Carmarthenshire to Pembrokeshire
Here nature has turned the colour saturation up to a maximum.
This section of the route bursts with wooded valleys and rolling countryside, making a walk, wheel or cycle an unforgettable adventure.
Be ready to enjoy colourful hedgerows, river corridors and rural landscapes on the way towards the Pembrokeshire coast.
In Wales nature has turned the colour saturation up to a maximum. Credit: Matthew Horwood
Northern Ireland
Lagan Towpath (Route 9), Belfast to Lisburn
Fancy some peak autumn colour?
The Lagan Towpath from Belfast to Lisburn makes for the perfect day out.
On the route you'll pass through Lagan Valley Regional Park - perfect for nature lovers, budding wildlife spotters and colourful leaf chasers.
Craigavon to Newry (Route 9)
Every mile on Route 9 comes with a fresh burst of colour, especially around Lough Shark and through the wooded Poyntzpass area.
Perfect for spotting wildlife and basking in golden leaves, bring your camera (or phone) as there'll be plenty of 'just one more photo' stops.
If you're looking for a peaceful walk, wheel or cycle, take Route 9.
From Scotland's lochside forests to Wales' mountain valleys and England's leafy greenways, the National Cycle Network offers countless opportunities to enjoy autumn at its best. Credit: Jonathan Bewley
