National Cycle Routes
The National Cycle Network
is a major initiative of the sustainable transport organisation
SUSTRANS, which aims to create a network of cycle routes using
traffic-free paths and quiet roads. The traffic free paths are
ideal for children and new cyclists to practice their skills on.
Many are also suitable for walkers, people with disabilities and
also horse riders. They represent a real improvement in the walking
and cycling environment of the areas which they serve.
The Marston Vale Line is unique amongst Community Railways, as it
is easily accessible from two National Cycle Routes, National Cycle
Route 6 and National Cycle Route 51. You can use them for short
sections, or as part of much longer journeys. Either way, we can
help you get there! To find out more information, simply look
below!
National Cycle Route 6
Time: As long as you
want, but this section is at least a days ride
Route: Milton Keynes - Leighton Buzzard
Start/Finish Point: For people from the Marston Vale Line,
you can pick up the route near Fenny Stratford.
Nearest Station: Fenny Stratford
National Cycle Route 6 runs north/south through Milton Keynes,
roughly following the route of the Grand Union Canal. The canal
towpath provides an excellent cycling facility, combining the peace
and tranquillity of the waterside with the easy riding and
gradients that the canal follows. In Milton Keynes, Route 6
integrates very well with the Milton Keynes Redways, providing easy
access to all areas of the city.
Route Description
Route Map
(PDF, 1.26mb)
Directions to the start point
From Fenny Stratford station, use the MK Redways to access
National Cycle Route 6.
MK
Redways Map (PDF, 3mb)
National Cycle Route 51
Time: As long as you
want, but this section is at least a days ride
Route: Milton Keynes - Cranfield - Marston Moretaine -
Bedford
Start/Finish Point: The route can be picked up at any
point. We would suggest picking up the route at Bedford, Milton
Keynes, or the Forest Centre in Marston Moretaine
Nearest Stations: Bedford St Johns and Millbrook
National Cycle Route 51 runs the length of the Marston Vale, much
like the rail service, between Milton Keynes and Bedford. This
section of the route also extends to the east of Bedford, running
as far as Sandy. From there, the route continues further onward.
This route has a mixture of on-road and off-road sections, and is
an excellent way of exploring the vale.
Route Map
(PDF, 623kb)
Directions to the start point
From Bedford St Johns station, leave the station via the
town centre exit. Cycle across the car park, and head left at the
car park exit. At the end of the road, head left, then head
straight across the traffic lights. Cycle down the path between
County Hall (to the left), and Bedford College (to the right). You
pick up the route at the riverside. Head left to go towards Milton
Keynes, and head right to go towards Sandy. From Millbrook
station, head to the right. Take the third gate to the right into
the Country Park. Head to the left around to the Forest
Centre.
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