What is it really like cycling in Milton Keynes?

 

Cycling in Milton Keynes offers a unique experience, blending modern infrastructure with scenic routes. Known for its extensive network of redways—dedicated cycling and pedestrian paths—the city is a cyclist’s dream.

But what is it really like to ride through Milton Keynes? From the smooth paths winding through green spaces to navigating busy roundabouts, this article explores the highs and lows of cycling in this planned urban environment, giving you an insider’s perspective on two-wheeled travel in Milton Keynes.

Milton Keynes City Cycling statistics

 

Milton Keynes has become a popular destination for cyclists due to its well-planned infrastructure. Here are some key statistics related to cycling in the city:

1. Redway Network Length: Milton Keynes has over 200 miles (320 km) of dedicated redways, which are shared-use paths for cyclists and pedestrians. This extensive network connects different parts of the city, making cycling a viable transportation option.

 

1. Cycling Trips: It is estimated that there are around 17 million cycling trips annually on the redways, reflecting the popularity of cycling as both a recreational activity and a mode of transport in Milton Keynes.

 

1. Cycling Mode Share: In Milton Keynes, cycling accounts for approximately 3% of all trips. While this might seem low compared to some European cities, it’s relatively high for UK standards, especially in a town designed with cars in mind.

 

1. Cycling to Work: Around 2.8% of residents in Milton Keynes cycle to work, which is higher than the national average in the UK. This reflects the town’s infrastructure and efforts to promote cycling as a sustainable transport option.

 

1. Cycling Events: Milton Keynes hosts various cycling events, including charity rides, races, and community cycling days. These events help to promote cycling culture and increase awareness of cycling as a healthy and sustainable transport option.

These statistics highlight Milton Keynes as a cycle-friendly city, with a well-developed infrastructure that supports and encourages cycling.

 

Cycle Bike Hire in Milton Keynes

 

• Santander Cycles MK is a bike-sharing scheme with various docking stations located across Milton Keynes. This service allows you to hire a bike for short trips or a full day and return it to any of the available docking stations. The bikes are user-friendly and designed for quick, convenient travel around the city. It’s a great option for those looking to explore Milton Keynes in a flexible and eco-friendly way. You can find more information on their website at Santander Cycles MK.

 

• Milton Keynes Cycle Hire offers bike rentals at several locations, including the scenic Campbell Park. They provide a diverse range of bikes to suit different preferences, including standard bikes, e-bikes, and tandem bikes. This service is ideal for anyone wanting to enjoy the green spaces and cycling routes around Milton Keynes. The bikes can be hired directly at the locations where they are available.

 

• Cycle King, located on Grafton Street in Milton Keynes, provides bike sales, services, and rentals. They offer a wide variety of bikes for hire, from mountain bikes to city bikes, making it a versatile option for those planning to explore both urban and rural areas of Milton Keynes. You can find more details about their services on the Cycle King website.

 

• Rutland Cycling at Willen Lake in Milton Keynes is another excellent option for bike hire, particularly for families. They offer a range of bikes, including standard bikes, e-bikes, and children’s bikes, along with necessary accessories like helmets and child seats. The store’s location at Willen Lake makes it convenient for a leisurely ride around the park. More information can be found on their website.

 

• Baines Racing, located in nearby Newport Pagnell, offers bike hire services alongside their primary focus on bike sales and repairs. They have high-quality bikes available, particularly suited for those looking for a performance-oriented ride. This service is ideal for cyclists wanting to explore Milton Keynes and its surroundings with a more specialized bike. Details are available on the Baines Racing website.

 

• The MK Biergarten in Wolverton, Milton Keynes, offers bike hire with a focus on local touring. It’s a great option if you plan to explore the northern parts of Milton Keynes or venture into the surrounding countryside. This service combines the enjoyment of cycling with the chance to explore the local area in a relaxed and leisurely manner. More information can be found on their website.

 

Top 3 cycling routes in Milton Keynes

 

Milton Keynes offers a variety of cycling routes that cater to different levels of cyclists, from scenic leisure rides to more challenging paths. Here are the top three cycling routes in the city:

 

1. Willen Lake to Caldecotte Lake

 

This route is one of the most scenic and popular cycling paths in Milton Keynes, connecting two of the city’s largest lakes. Starting at Willen Lake, you can enjoy the serene waters and green surroundings as you follow the redways southward towards Caldecotte Lake. The route is approximately 10 miles (16 km) round trip and offers flat, well-maintained paths, making it ideal for families and casual cyclists. Along the way, you’ll pass through peaceful parklands and have opportunities to stop for a picnic or enjoy the views.

 

 

2. Ouzel Valley Park

 

For those looking to immerse themselves in nature, the Ouzel Valley Park route is a perfect choice. This route winds through one of Milton Keynes’ most picturesque parks, following the course of the River Ouzel. The path is surrounded by lush greenery and offers glimpses of local wildlife. It’s a relatively flat route, stretching for about 8 miles (13 km) round trip, and is ideal for cyclists of all abilities. The peaceful environment makes it a great option for a relaxing ride or a weekend outing with family.

 

3. The Milton Keynes Redway System

 

The Milton Keynes Redway system is an extensive network of over 200 miles (320 km) of dedicated cycling and pedestrian paths that crisscross the city. While not a single route, the Redway system offers endless possibilities for cyclists. You can create your own route depending on your starting point and destination, whether you’re commuting, exploring the city, or enjoying a leisurely ride.

Key routes within the Redway system include the path from Central Milton Keynes to Campbell Park, which offers stunning views and easy access to shops and cafes, and the route from Bletchley to Stony Stratford, which takes you through a mix of urban and rural landscapes. The Redways are well-signposted and provide a safe, traffic-free environment for cyclists.

 

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Bike shops in Milton Keynes

 

Milton Keynes has several bike shops catering to different cycling needs, whether you’re looking for a new bike, repairs, or accessories. Here are some of the top bike shops in the area:

 

1. Cycle King

 

Located on Grafton Street, Cycle King is one of the largest bike shops in Milton Keynes. They offer a wide range of bicycles, from mountain bikes to road bikes, as well as electric bikes and children’s bikes. In addition to sales, they provide repair and maintenance services. The store is known for its extensive selection and competitive pricing, making it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced cyclists.

 

 

2. Rutland Cycling

 

Rutland Cycling at Willen Lake is a well-known name in the UK cycling community. The Milton Keynes store offers a wide range of bikes, including road, mountain, hybrid, and electric bikes. They also provide bike hire services, making it a convenient stop for those looking to explore the local area. The shop has a full-service workshop for repairs and maintenance, along with a variety of cycling accessories and gear.

 

3. Corley Cycles

 

Corley Cycles, located in Stacey Bushes, Milton Keynes, is an independent bike shop with a reputation for high-quality service. They specialize in road and racing bikes, catering to serious cyclists and enthusiasts. The shop offers custom bike fitting services, expert repairs, and a range of top cycling brands. Corley Cycles is also known for its involvement in the local cycling community, sponsoring events and supporting local clubs.

 

 

4. Baines Racing

 

Situated in Newport Pagnell, just outside Milton Keynes, Baines Racing is a shop that focuses on performance and racing bikes. They offer high-end bikes, custom builds, and specialized repair services. Baines Racing is ideal for cyclists who are looking for expert advice and top-tier equipment. The shop’s team is experienced in working with both amateur and professional cyclists, making it a go-to place for serious riders.

These bike shops provide a range of services and products to meet the needs of all types of cyclists in Milton Keynes. Whether you’re a casual rider, a commuter, or a competitive cyclist, you’re sure to find what you need at one of these stores.

 

Where to lock your bike in Milton Keynes

 

In Milton Keynes, there are several options for securely locking your bike:

1. Designated Bike Racks: Many areas in Milton Keynes have designated bike racks, especially in the city center and near popular destinations like shopping centers and parks. Look for these racks near key locations such as Centre, the Hub, and local shopping areas.

 

Public Transport Stations: Major transport hubs like Milton Keynes Central Station and the bus interchange have bike racks available for secure parking. These are convenient if you’re combining cycling with public transport.#

 

Shopping Centers: Milton Keynes have bike parking facilities. These areas are usually well-monitored and provide easy access to shopping and dining options.

 

Parks and Recreational Areas: Many of Milton Keynes’ parks, such as Willen Lake and Campbell Park, have bike racks available for visitors. These are useful for locking up your bike while you enjoy a walk or other activities.

 

Business and Office Buildings: If you’re visiting a business or office building, check if they provide bike parking facilities. Many businesses in Milton Keynes offer secure bike storage for employees and visitors.

These options help ensure that you can securely lock your bike while you enjoy various activities or run errands around Milton Keynes.

 

Cycling in the City Milton Keynes Reddit

 

Discover why cycling in Milton Keynes is a top choice for cyclists, with safe, scenic redways perfect for commuting and leisure rides.

“Absolutely love cycling in Milton Keynes! The redways are fantastic—safe, scenic, and well-maintained. Whether commuting or enjoying a leisurely ride, it’s always a pleasure. The network is extensive, making it easy to get around the city while soaking in the beautiful surroundings. Highly recommended for anyone who loves cycling!” – Sarah Thompson

“Milton Keynes is truly a cyclist’s paradise. The city’s extensive network of redways offers a smooth and enjoyable ride, whether you’re commuting to work or exploring on weekends. The paths are well-maintained and beautifully scenic, providing a great cycling experience. I highly recommend Milton Keynes for both novice and experienced cyclists!” – Mark Roberts

 

Local cycling clubs in Milton Keynes

 

Milton Keynes has several local cycling clubs that cater to various interests and skill levels. Here are some notable ones:

• Milton Keynes Cycling Club: A well-established club offering a range of rides, from leisure to competitive. They host regular group rides, training sessions, and social events for cyclists of all abilities. The club focuses on creating a friendly community for cycling enthusiasts.

 

• MK Cycling Club: Known for its active and inclusive atmosphere, MK Cycling Club organizes rides, races, and social events. They offer structured training sessions and cater to both road and mountain biking enthusiasts. The club is welcoming to newcomers and experienced riders alike.

 

• Linslade Cyclists: Based in nearby Linslade, this club is open to all types of cyclists. They offer group rides, social events, and training sessions. The club emphasizes enjoying cycling in a supportive community and regularly organizes rides in and around Milton Keynes.

 

• Woburn Sands Cycling Club: Located in Woburn Sands, this club provides opportunities for both competitive and recreational cycling. They offer group rides, training, and events, aiming to support cyclists of various skill levels while promoting a love for the sport.

 

• Redway Runners Cycling Club: This club focuses on integrating cycling into a broader fitness regime. They offer combined cycling and running events, as well as dedicated cycling sessions. It’s a great option for those interested in cross-training and fitness through cycling.

These clubs offer a range of activities and support for cyclists in Milton Keynes, whether you’re looking to join group rides, participate in races, or simply connect with other cycling enthusiasts.

 

Final verdict

 

Cycling in Milton Keynes presents a fantastic opportunity for both casual riders and enthusiasts, thanks to its extensive network of redways and picturesque routes.

The city’s well-maintained paths ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride, whether you’re commuting, exploring, or simply enjoying a leisurely outing.

Local cycling clubs offer a vibrant community and a range of activities to suit various skill levels, from group rides to competitive events. With convenient bike hire options and ample secure parking, Milton Keynes caters well to cyclists.

Overall, it’s a cyclist-friendly city that combines excellent infrastructure with beautiful surroundings, making it an ideal destination for cycling.

 

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