Published: 30th October 2026

Where to stop for coffee: 9 best spots on the National Cycle Network

Whether you're enjoying a day out with your mates, are on a family adventure or your local walk, there's something special about finding a coffee stop that's every bit as memorable. From roasteries in vibrant cities to cafes tucked away in the countryside, coastlines and market towns, here are nice places serving exceptional coffee close to the National Cycle Network.

Two mugs of coffee on chinaware on a wooden table.

F rom roasteries in vibrant cities to cafes tucked away in the countryside, coastlines and market towns, there a plenty of places serving exceptional coffee close to the National Cycle Network. Credit: Nadja Korner

England

1.Just Between Friends, Manchester, Route 66

Small in space but mighty in coffee. Just Between Friends off Route 66 in Manchester serves up some of the best coffee in the city. 

The excitement comes from a regularly changing line-up of quest roasters, which makes every visit unique. 

Grab a cuppa (or two) and take a walk, wheel or cycle on close-by Route 66. 


2. Full Court Press, Bristol, Route 4

Did someone say meticulously crafted coffee? Full Court Press in Bristol just off Route 4 has a coffee bar where you can choose from 16 coffees on the menu. 

Here coffee is taken seriously in all he right ways - expect expert brews, passionate baristas and plenty of reasons to have another cup to take along to Route 4 or 3. 

Person wearing a blue and yellow tartan coat standing in the doorframe of a cafe holding a cup, smiling.

Whether you're enjoying a day out with your mates, are on a family adventure or your local walk, there's something special about finding a coffee stop that's every bit as memorable. Credit: Jon Bewley

3. Electric Bakery Bude, Cornwall, Route 3

Sometimes the destination is the coffee stop and heading out for a walk, wheel or cycle on Route 3 you can't say no to stopping by at Electric Bakery in Bude. 

With a menu led by the season, a focus on slow and sustainable food and freshly brewed batch coffee, what is there not to like? 

Fill up before heading for some scenic views along the coast on Route 3.

 

4. Söderberg Wandsworth, London, Route 20 and Route 4

It's always time for Fika [go for a coffee break] and Söderberg Wandsworth serves up some delicious coffee with notes of caramel and chocolate. 

And don't forget their signature cardamom bun to complete your Fika. 

Enjoyed best after a walk, wheel or cycle along the Thames or King George's Park on Route 20 or 4. 

They also have a several locations in Edinburgh, including one just off Route 75.

 

The blue shopfront of Unorthodox Roasters with the word 'Coffee' painted on it and an arrow pointing to the entrance.

Step inside Unorthodox Roasters on National Cycle Network Route 1 and be welcomed by freshly roasted coffee aroma and coffee sacks. Credit: Nadja Korner

Scotland

5. Birch, Inverness, Route 1

Anyone needing a brew-tiful excuse for a walk, wheel or cycle? 

Take a walk, wheel or cycle around Ness Islands or further along the river followed by a cosy cuppa at Birch. 

Hand-roasted, speciality coffee in every cup and a Melbourne-style cafe; in 2026 Birch has made it into the top 50 of The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops. 


 6. Unorthodox Roasters, Kinross, Route 1

Unorthodox Roasters sits close to Loch Leven and National Cycle Network Route 1 and is perfectly placed for a brew and a scenic lochside walk, wheel or cycle.

Step inside, welcomed by freshly roasted coffee aroma and coffee sacks, the Unorthodox Roasters spent over 10 months in Latin America before bringing their learnings to Scotland. 

Explore the RSPB Loch Leven nature reserve on Route 1 or take Route 775 to Perth.

Views from Llandudno Pier over to the seaside resort town of Llandudno.

Explore this seaside resort town Llandudno from Route 5 and stop by at Providero for some freshly brewed coffee. Credit: Nadja Korner

Wales

6. Milkwood, Cardiff, Route 8

Fancy a brew with a scenic walk, wheel or cycle? 

Take the Taff Trail before stopping off at Milkwood, one of Cardiff’s best neighbourhood cafes.

Known for its expertly brewed speciality coffee, seasonal menu and warm neighbourhood feel, Milkwood is a favourite among locals.


7. Providero, Llandudno, Route 5

Did someone say coffee with a dash of sea air? Providero got you covered! 

Here you can expect ethically sourced, high-quality coffee on the North Wales coast.

Just a stone’s throw from the Great Orme, it's perfect place to pause and enjoy a well-earned cuppa.

 Explore this seaside resort town from Route 5 or walk, wheel or cycle along the coast to Chester.

Two people walking with a coffee in hand along a like with a hill in the background.

Anyone needing a brew-tiful excuse for a walk, wheel or cycle? Hand-roasted, speciality coffee keeps you fuelled for the next part of the journey. Credit: Brian Morrison

Northern Ireland

8. Coffee Rustler, Bangor, Route 93

With seasonal specials like Toffee Apple Flat White, a stop here is hard to resist. 

This independent speciality coffee shop is known for its expertly crafted espresso, filter and nitro coffee, alongside delicious pastries and a friendly atmosphere.

You can head to Bangor on the train and then explore the stunning coastline on Route 93 before stopping at Coffee Rustler.

 

9. Cultura, Belfast, Route 9 and Route 99

Close to the stunning Comber Greenway and easily reachable from Belfast city centre, you can find the thoughtfully created Cultura cafe. 

Enjoy a rotating selection of signature creations such as their seasonal mocha - layered with brown butter syrup, smoked sea salt and torched mallow.

Perfect to refuel before continuing on your journey on the greenway.

13 of our favourite cafés on The National Cycle Network around Manchester

Explore the National Cycle Network in Greater Manchester and check out these wonderful cafés and eateries to take a much-needed break at.
13 of our favourite cafés on The National Cycle Network around Manchester
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