Plan a cycling break by train

Cycling is a fun way to keep fit and also take in beautiful scenery around you. We are lucky that the UK is a hotspot for great cycling paths – both leisurely and challenging. Therefore, this spring, pump your tyres, check your chains and get peddling!

Travelling by train with your bike is easier than you might think. With a bit of forward planning you could be on your saddle in no time. Here are a few hints and tips to ensure your cycle trip goes spinning-ly well!

Choosing where to go

Choosing where to go on your cycling trip depends on what type of experience you are looking for. If you are taking a trip with kids then you will want to find somewhere kid-friendly, however, if you are going with a friend or alone, then you might want to plan something a bit more exhilarating.

Yorkshire is a great hub for British cycling, and has some fantastic routes to suit all abilities. If you are heading to Yorkshire with your bike, then you could catch the train to York, Northallerton or Thirsk for a good base to start from. The Peak District is also a great destination for cycle enthusiasts. It’s National Park offers some great off-road cycling routes which also allow you to take in wonderful landscape scenery and wildlife.

Getting your bike on the train

Cyclists are very welcome on board all our Grand Central services. Our Adelante trains have space for three bikes, two of which can be reserved and one that is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Therefore, if you are travelling in a larger group, it might be better to book separate trains so that you all get a space.

It’s always free to reserve your bike space, but you will need to book your space at least 24 hours in advance as they need to be stored in a designated part of the train. The sooner the better to ensure you get a space. You can reserve a cycle space by calling a member of our Customer Relations team on 0345 603 4852 (Option 3, then option 1).

When you arrive at the train station on your day of departure, please ensure you arrive at least 10 minutes before your train is due to depart and head to coach B. The train manager will check your booking PDF and help you to get your bike on the train.

If you have a folding bike, you can carry this as normal hand luggage and store it in the racks at the end of each carriage. Please, always be mindful of other passengers when bringing your bike onboard.

What to take with you

Your choice of accommodation, the time of year and who you are travelling with are all factors that will alter what you need to take with you on your cycling trip. If you are camping, then you will special equipment for this, however, if you are staying in a B&B or hotel and can leave belongings there during the day, then you won’t need to worry about carrying them around with you all day on your back.

In general, the greatest tip to remember is that less is more. Lightweight layers and non-bulky essentials are best for all cycling occasions. Cycling shorts, cycling shoes, a helmet, rain-proof jacket and cycling gloves are essentials, as well as a water bottle, healthy snacks, cycling shoes and a bum-bag for carrying your personal possessions, tickets and cash. You should also consider a pump, puncture repair kits and spare inner tubes just in case you have a puncture at some point on your ride. A first aid kit could come in very handy too – even if you are a regular cyclist.

Wherever you decide to travel to with your cycle, we hope you have a great trip!