Rides for Kids

[pubrunner]

Next year, I'd like to take my boys (currently aged 6 & 14) on either the C2C route or the new Way of the Roses Cycle Route (Or some other suitable 'challenge' ride).

The younger boy would do it on a tag-a-long. We'd have my missus as a support vehicle and would be able to 'pickup' the tag-a-long & youngest lad if/when it gets too hard going. We'd stay in B&Bs or pubs (whatever) - I'd envisage that we'd do it in about 4-6 days.

I'd like to do something similar beforehand - ie a 'challenge' type ride with the boys, but over a shorter distance, probably with just one overnight stay - something of between about 40-70 miles overall (25-35 miles per day). Just to give them a bit of confidence and hopefully, enthusiasm ! (The boys are already doing 15-20 mile rides - with no problems)

The boys would like to do a 'recognised' route, rather than something that I might makeup. I'd be pleased to know of anything suitable - anywhere scenic & not much traffic.

I'd welcome any ideas/suggestions for a preliminary short trial route (40-70 miles) and for any suitable longer rides such as the C2C or Way of the Roses.

Thank you.

 

[Brains]

You don't say the experience of the boys, but my pennyworth.

I have done the C2C.
I took 3 full days with wife in tow
(B&B Nights at Whitehaven, Keswick, Allenheads, Sunderland)
There are a number of very steep/long hills.
I was looking at it as a route for Explorer Scouts (14-18 years old) and decided it would be beyond the inexperienced cyclists.

Not done the Way of the Roses.

However I would recommend:
The Kennet and Avon Canal (London to Bristol - 3 days)
The Tarka Trail (Devon - 2 days with a night in the bunkhouse at something or other Halt)
Norfolk coast
Holland Coast - the North Sea Route - Hook of Holland to Texel - This is a great route for all, as you see the sea a lot of the time, it's flat, the cycling is how cycling should be, there are great YHA's and B&B's and loads of camp sites and everything is geared up for kids.
Danish Coast - North Sea Route - Like Holland but a bit boring.