Cycling in Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly: 21 Hand-picked Rides

Travel writer and seasoned cyclist Huw Hennessy brings together 21 hand‑picked bike rides across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly — a region where quiet lanes, dramatic coastlines and centuries of history make every ride feel like an adventure. With routes ranging from short, family‑friendly spins to full‑day explorations, Cycling in Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly is ideal for leisure riders, holidaymakers and anyone who wants to enjoy fresh air and beautiful countryside at their own pace.

Each ride links together the area’s standout attractions: golden beaches, fishing harbours, stately homes, nature reserves and heritage sites — plus plenty of hidden gems that only a local expert would know. Many routes interconnect or form circular loops, giving more ambitious riders the chance to build longer, more challenging days out.

You’ll visit world‑famous landmarks such as Land’s End, St Michael’s Mount, the Eden Project, and the subtropical Tresco Abbey Gardens. Ride the traffic‑free Camel Trail along a disused railway line, tackle muddy woodland singletrack in Cardinham Woods, follow the off‑road Pentewan Trail to the Lost Gardens of Heligan, or explore the flowing trails around Lanhydrock, a National Trust estate perfect for mountain biking.

But this guidebook is far more than a collection of routes. Drawing on over thirty years of experience, Hennessy weaves in cultural insights, local stories, folklore and personal tips that bring Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly to life. This is a region rich in myth, history and spiritual resonance — and the book encourages you to slow down, look around and savour the journey as much as the destination.

Whether you’re cycling with family, exploring solo or planning a holiday on two wheels, this guide helps you discover the very best of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.