The National Cycle Network (NCN) was established to encourage cycling and walking throughout the United Kingdom, as well as for the purposes of bicycle touring. It was created by the charity Sustrans who were aided by a £42.5 million National Lottery grant. However Sustrans themselves only own around 2% of the paths on the network, the rest being made of existing public highways and rights of way, and permissive paths negotiated by Sustrans with private landowners.
Former northern end of National Cycle Route 1, in Haroldswick, Shetland. This route was de-designated on safety grounds in 2020.
The first section of the NCN to be built was the Bristol & Bath Railway Path, opened in 1984
Route 8 sign near Harlech, North Wales
A NCN "Millennium Milepost"
Bicycle touring is the taking of self-contained cycling trips for pleasure, adventure or autonomy rather than sport, commuting or exercise. Bicycle touring can range from single-day trips to extended travels spanning weeks or months. Tours may be planned by the participant or organized by a tourism business, local club or organization, or a charity as a fund-raising venture.
Expedition type bicycle touring Cordillera del Paine
Touring the countryside, 1887
Woman in bicycle clothes and buttoned on skirt that also can be used as raincoat
Supported bicycle touring holidays, such as the nine-day Great Victorian Bike Ride in Australia, can attract thousands of riders