This guide showcases the very best of Surrey's plentiful cycling opportunities. The routes chosen avoid the steeper hills and instead follow quiet roads, easy bridleways and river towpaths. It's not just a book for the seasoned cyclist either - there are routes here for family groups, those new to cycling and anyone who might be apprehensive about returning to it. The 20 circular rides vary in length from 14 to 23 miles and take in some of the most beautiful countryside in the county. Highlights include: Richmond Park and Hampton Court, Henry VIII's palace; The Lightwater Country Park with its many varieties of birds and deer; The Semaphore Tower at Chatley Heath, built in 1822 P Haxted Watermill, a working watermill and museum; Leith Hill where the composer Ralph Vaughan Williams lived; Alice Holt Forest, once the source of timber for Britain's naval fleet P Chiddingfold, where some of the glass for Westminster Abbey was made; Cranleigh, reputed to be the largest village in Britain.
