Lots of us are exploring the great outdoors more with the arrival of warmer weather. Looking for inspiration about where to go? Many of the team at Dennis Maps are keen walkers and cyclists. Here they share their favourite places to walk and cycle across the UK and give some top tips, too.
Lewis, Print Supervisor
Favourite place to explore by bike:
I’ve cycled from Frome to Salisbury several times, following Route 24 on the National Cycle Network. I keep the River Wylye on my left-hand side for much of the journey, which helps me keep track of where I am. I enjoy this route as it takes in loads of small villages, such as Hanging Langford, which you’d rarely see in a car.
Top tip:
If you go all the way to Salisbury Cathedral, you’ll be able to see one of the four surviving copies of the Magna Carta. It’s a fact I like to bore everyone with!
Map:
Plan your route with Ordnance Survey (OS)
Christian, CTP Operator
Favourite place to explore on a walk:
My favourite route has to be the Brecon Beacons horseshoe ridge walk. I’ve completed it a few times with different people. Memorably, I walked the route on Remembrance Sunday with my father and we took a photo holding poppies at the summit. The picture even appeared in Trail magazine!
The route is around ten miles and takes in three summits – Corn Du, Pen y Fan and Cribyn. I recommend this walk to everyone as it’s fairly easy and accessible on National Trust paths.
Top tip:
Be weather aware and turn back if necessary.
Print On Demand Maps:
Explore the area with an OS map of the Brecon Beacons
Favourite place to explore by bike:
One of my favourite cycle routes is a Sustrans route of around 65 miles, that circumnavigates the Isle of Wight. I get the ferry across the Solent, so it feels like you’re cycling abroad. There are lovely sea views to enjoy and incredible beaches to stop at.
Top tip:
Go to the Ocean Deck in Sandown for great fish and chips.
Map:
Find out more with a print on demand OS map of the route
Naomi, Office Manager and PA to the MD
Favourite place to explore on a walk:
I holiday in Cornwall with my family and dogs at least once a year. One walk I make sure we complete is the route from Constantine Bay to Padstow, on the South West Coast Path. It covers various terrains and takes in lots of sights. We have our first pit stop near the Trevose Head Lighthouse (which you can see in the video below). Later, we walk the length of the beach at Harlyn Bay instead of following the cliff path. It’s a dog-friendly beach and a firm favourite with our two.
Top tip:
Stop at Stepper Point to visit the National Coastguard Institution. The coastguards are always happy to talk to you and share their fascinating stories.
Map:
Favourite place to explore by bike:
My favourite cycle is another Cornwall route. We often pick up The Camel Trail from Wadebridge and follow the traffic-free route all the way to Padstow. It follows an old railway line which once linked London and Cornwall. It’s a relatively flat path and is so scenic and peaceful. Plenty of benches line the route, allowing for a picnic or just enjoying the vista.
Top tip:
I recommended visiting the Atlantic Coast Express café on The Camel Trail, a former train carriage that’s been converted into an open-air café. They sell delicious cakes and drinks.
Map:
Grant, Digital Map Finishing Supervisor
Favourite place to explore by bike:
I’d have to choose a circular journey from Frome, starting at Critchill in the town, going over Truddox Hill (a big hill thrown in for good measure!), into Longleat and following the National Cycle Network’s Route 24 back to Frome. It’s mainly quiet lanes and passes through lovely English countryside.
Top tip:
There are two pubs I recommend stopping at – The George Inn in Longbridge Deverill and The Bath Arms in Horningsham. Both have good food and nice beer gardens. Nunney Castle is also en route and worth a visit.
Map:
Explore the area with an OS map
