
CYCLING IN SUFFOLK
Two wheels, open roads, and unforgettable stays
At The Suffolk Cottage Collection, we welcome guests seeking not just rest, but adventure – and for cyclists, Suffolk is a dream. With gently rolling lanes, sweeping coastlines, and charming villages, it’s a region that rewards exploration by bike.
Whether you’re riding in a major event, touring the countryside at your own pace, or simply bringing your bike for a few days of relaxed rides between tearooms on the Suffolk cycle paths, the area offers something unique – and we’re here to help you make the most of it.

“Cycling here feels like freedom on two wheels – quiet lanes, big skies, and something new around every bend.”

The Dunwich Dynamo – a midnight ride to the sea
One of the UK’s most iconic informal rides, the Dunwich Dynamo sees thousands of cyclists set off from London Fields in Hackney as the sun sets, pedalling through the night to arrive at Dunwich beach with the sunrise. There’s no signage, no official timing – just the camaraderie of hundreds of red tail lights lighting the way across the East Anglian night.
Our cottages, many of which are just a short ride from Dunwich, offer the perfect base for riders and supporters alike. Whether you’re joining the ride or welcoming someone at the finish line with coffee and a change of clothes, it’s a magical event to build your Suffolk stay around.
Our take: The Dynamo is pure magic. Watching the sun rise over the sea after a night ride is a memory that stays with you long after the legs recover.

Bring your bike – explore the Suffolk lanes at your pace
Suffolk is a county made for cycling. Quiet back roads meander past fields of barley, flint cottages, and open skies. The Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB offers miles of scenic cycling routes, with charming stops in Orford, Aldeburgh, Snape, Southwold, and Framlingham along the way.
Many of our cottages offer secure bike storage, and some are directly on or near National Cycle Network routes. Whether you’re out for 10 miles or 100, it’s easy to plan a route that suits your ability and appetite – with plenty of chances to stop for coffee, cake, or a swim in the sea.
Cycle-friendly stays
- Station pick-up/drop-off options available at selected locations
- Bring your own bike or hire locally
- Bike storage available at many properties
- Route planning support for guests looking to explore the lanes
Our take: Suffolk’s lanes are made for wandering. You’ll never ride the same loop twice, and the café stops are as much a highlight as the pedalling.

Suffolk Cycling Events
Ride, race or watch
In addition to the Dunwich Dynamo, Suffolk plays host to a growing calendar of cycling events – some of which attract national attention.
Women’s Tour of Britain: This elite-level stage race often passes through Suffolk’s lanes and villages, offering an exciting chance to spectate and soak up the festival atmosphere.
Ride for Helen Suffolk: A charity sportive with scenic routes ranging from 6 to 100 miles, perfect for mixed-ability groups.
Tour de Ribbons (Bury to Beccles): A colourful charity ride through the Suffolk countryside.
Sudbury Cycle Sportive: A late-summer favourite with rolling routes and a friendly community feel.
All of these make wonderful excuses to book a weekend or longer stay – with our cottages offering a relaxing retreat post-ride.
Our take: Suffolk’s cycling calendar mixes world-class racing with laid-back charity rides. Whether you’re competing or clapping from the roadside, there’s a buzz that brings the county to life.

Suffolk by train and bike
Many of our guests arrive by train – and so do their bikes. With Greater Anglia offering bike-friendly carriages on most routes, it’s easy to plan a sustainable break with a blend of rail and road.
Stations in Saxmundham, Woodbridge, Darsham, and Beccles link neatly to our coastal and rural cottages – from here, you can hop on your bike and onto the many cycle paths in Suffolk.
Our take: Train plus bike is the ultimate slow-travel combo. It’s greener, calmer, and opens up even more of Suffolk to explore.

Why stay with The Suffolk Cottage Collection?
We know what cyclists need: comfort, flexibility, space, and scenery. Our handpicked cottages give you a warm, luxurious place to rest your legs, along with access to secure storage, outdoor space for bike maintenance, and local knowledge on the best routes, cafés, and repair shops.
Whether you’re clocking up centuries or pedalling between pubs, Suffolk is ready. And we’re ready to welcome you. Explore the Suffolk Cottage Collection and discover a new kind of cycling holiday – full of fresh air, freedom, and feel-good memories.
Explore our cottages for cycling holidays in Suffolk.

FAQ
What makes Suffolk good for cycling?
Suffolk is known for its quiet country lanes, flat to gently rolling landscapes, and scenic coastal routes. It’s ideal for both relaxed leisure rides and longer endurance challenges.
Can I bring my bike on the train to Suffolk?
Yes, Greater Anglia trains are generally bike-friendly and have space for bicycles. It’s best to check ahead, but most services to Suffolk towns and villages allow bikes on board.
Do I need to be an experienced cyclist to enjoy Suffolk?
Not at all. There are routes for every level, from gentle rides between tearooms to long-distance challenges like the Dunwich Dynamo. Many families bring bikes and ride together at an easy pace.
Is bike hire available in Suffolk?
Yes, there are several local hire companies offering road bikes, hybrids, and even e-bikes. Many deliver directly to where you’re staying.
Where can I find cycling routes near The Suffolk Cottage Collection cottages?
You can explore them all on our [cycling activities page], which includes an interactive map to help you plan your next adventure.