Relaxed: 19km, 1.5 hours, one hill to climb at the end

Sustrans route 51 links Cranfield and Marston, using gravel and quiet roads. Use this as a guide only there are are lots of ways to vary the route.

The Route: Choose from several alternatives to reach the thrift but the twisting gravel decent is most fun. After the lower car park I normal take the road through wood end. The bridleways offer a good alternative when it’s dry but can still be bumpy.

Again there are several ways to join reach Marston village, all are good although the original route 51 course is now through houses rather than fields.

I’ve included the road towards Liddlington, which just before the level cross connects with a permissive path through across the former railway sidings. The gravel here is fast and twisty in places, fun, but watch for others. Single track addicts should look for a trail closer to the railway line.

The country park has options for longer loops, and the forest centre cafe makes for a trip out.

On the way back, especially if the sun is low rectory lake is beautiful.

Well there is no avoiding it, Cranfield sits on top of a hill so somehow we have to get back. The concrete road is probably the easiest cycle.

Pros: Perfect for a gravel blast in your lunch hour. Good for children and who doesn’t like an ice cream at the cafe. If you drive there you have to pay to park!

Cons: The forest centre trails are multi use and busy at weekends