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Offering brilliant views out over the sea, we have chosen a selection of coastal routes that are largely traffic-free and offer a range of things for kids to see and do.

These family-friendly rides offer great options for low-cost days out.

1. Camel Trail, Cornwall

One of the most popular recreational routes in the country, the Camel Trail runs from Padstow to Poley's Bridge, via Wadebridge and Bodmin. The trail passes through the wooded countryside of the upper Camel Valley and alongside the picturesque Camel Estuary - a paradise for birdwatchers.

2. South Coast Promenades - Worthing to Brighton

This great, largely traffic-free ride takes you along the coast where you can admire the fabulous beaches of Worthing and Brighton on one side and the South Downs on the horizon on the other. Please note there is an on-road section at Shoreham Harbour where you should take care.

3. Blackpool to Fleetwood, North West England

Where better to start a family coastal trip than Blackpool? The traffic-free promenade on this route, however, quickly takes you away from the bustle to quieter stretches of the Fylde Coast. At Cleveleys, an ideal snack-stop, you can see the Isle of Man on a clear day, and the Victorian town of Fleetwood welcomes you with pastel-coloured beach huts. Fleetwood has no train station, so please bear this in mind when planning your walk or cycle.  

4. Rhos-on-Sea to Pensarn, North Wales

This wonderful coastal route uses the wide sea promenade that stretches from Rhos-on-Sea and Colwyn Bay to Pensarn. Enjoy the sea breeze as you pass through the bustling seafront of Colwyn Bay. Further on you'll pass the curious concrete anchors that have been dumped in great heaps along the coast to prevent erosion from the sea.

5. Swansea Bike Path, South Wales

Following the wide-curving sweep of Swansea Bay this route offers fantastic views across to Mumbles Head and the start of the Gower Peninsula. Starting at Swansea Marina, the path follows the coastline to the Victorian seaside town of Mumbles along the route of the former Mumbles railway.

6. Millennium Coastal Path, South Wales 

Taking you along a mixture of beautiful coastline and picturesque woodland, the Millennium Coastal Park is rich in wildlife and history, and is one of the most stunning sections of the Celtic Trail. An easy-going and traffic-free route, the path is a tranquil green corridor that offers superb views of the Gower Peninsula and is perfect for a family day out.

7. Cardiff Bay Trail, South Wales

This easy traffic-free circular trail runs around Cardiff Bay and across to the seaside town of Penarth via the Pont Y Werin bridge. It's perfect for families and returning cyclists and provides a fantastic opportunity to explore Cardiff Bay's vibrant waterfronts cafes, bars and restaurants, heritage sites, and the fantastic array of activities on offer in Cardiff Bay's new International Sports Village.

8. Carnoustie to Arbroath, Scotland

This breezy 6-mile ride along the Angus coast is a short portion of the longer Dundee to Arbroath route. And being almost entirely flat, it’s great for littler legs. Take care on the few brief on-road sections of the route and reward yourself with a tasty batch of Arbroath “smokies” at the end of your journey.

9. Cullen to Buckie, Scotland

This seven-mile section of the Moray Coast Ride boasts dramatic sea views and picturesque coastal villages. What’s more, there’s even the possibility of spotting dolphins out in the Moray Firth, making it a great ride for family nature-watching. There are some road crossings and brief on-road sections on this route.

Want more inspiration for a family fun day out? Check out our list of some of our favourite traffic-free family rides.