WITH miles of quiet countryside to venture into alongside a host of traffic free paths, Herefordshire has got a booming cycling scene which provides something for everyone.

1. Hay-on-Wye

Renowned for its love of books Hay-on-Wye is also a popular destination for cyclist thanks to its rural location and ample supply of cafes.

One of the more challenging, but popular routes, for cyclists from Hereford sees them travel south via Much Dewchurch and Grosmont before crossing the A465 at Llavihangel Crucorney and going over Gospel Pass and descending into Hay-on-Wye.

The return journey is a popular, and much flatter, one through Dorstone, Peterchurch and Vowchurch and back into Hereford.

A route of between 50 and 65 miles depending on the exact route home.

2. Hole-in-the-Wall

A popular ride taking in the most scenic roads in South Herefordshire is known by local cyclists as the Hole-in-the-Wall ride out via Ross-on-Wye.

Starting from Hereford the route takes riders out via the Callow and out via Little Dewchurch and Hoarwithy to Ross.

The return journey sees cyclists head pass Ross-on-Wye, possible via a café, and then out on the scenic route towards Brampton Abbotts and then on to Hole-in-the-Wall alongside the River Wye on to How Caple.

The return journey back into Hereford takes in Woolhope and then Mordiford on the route back in.

This route is between 35 and 40 miles.

3. Forest of Dean

Positioned just a stones-throw from the county is the mountain bike heaven of the Forest of Dean.

Cannop Cycle Centre, in Coleford (GL16 7EH) marks the start of the Family Trail, Freeminers Trail and Verderers Trail.

The Family Trail is perfect for all the family and is a gentle route which is generally flat with a few short hills. There is things to do and places to visit along the nine-mile route which can be cut short to suit abilities.

The Freeminers Trial is 7.4 miles long and is classed as one for proficient mountain bikers while the Verderers Trail is seven miles long and for those with basic off-roading skills.

4. Symonds Yat to Monmouth (The Peregrine Path)

Running between Symonds Yat East and Monmouth the Peregrine Path is a 5.5-mile route which runs alongside the River Wye.

The scenic route is suitable for all the family and is relatively flat and on a good surface.

There are also pubs and cafes at each end of the route as well as ample spots to stop for a picnic.

5. Grafton to Hereford

A popular route for those venturing into Hereford from the south of the city is down the old railway line from Grafton.

The traffic-free route turns down the river into the city at Hunderton Bridge before looping back around the King George Playing Fields and Chestnut Drive, Ross Road and then Grafton Lane.

Alternatively a route back via Rotherwas Bridge is also a popular option.

Full route on the Herefordshire.gov.uk website.

6. Breinton Loop

For those looking for a short ride out of the city the Breinton Loop is a popular option.

The six-mile ride leaves the city via the Great Western Way and then past Broomy Hill on Breinton Road and past Breinton Church.

After passing the village turn back towards home over Adams Hill.

Full route on the Herefordshire.gov.uk website.

7. Berrington Hall & Croft Castle Leisure Cycle Ride

A popular 20-mile route in the north of the county this ride provides ample opportunity to take in the scenery and views

Starting in Leominster itself the ride heads to Luston before turning to Berrington Hall.

The ride continues north to Orleton before looping back south via Yarpole, Croft Castle and Kingsland before heading back to the start.

Full route on the Herefordshire.gov.uk website.

8. Black and White Village Cycle Route

This is another scenic route in the north of the county which takes in 15 miles of some of the quaint Herefordshire villages.

Starting in Pembridge the ride heads south past Dunkertons Cider Mill before heading south to Weobley.

The ride then heads back north via Dilwyn, Sollers Dilwyn, Burton Court and Eardisland.

The final stretch follows the River Arrow back to Pembridge.

Full route on the Herefordshire.gov.uk website.

9. Three Rivers Leisure Cycle Ride

The west of the county also provides quiet roads to take in the scenery and local villages.

This 30 challenging miles ride starts in Colwall before heading north through Mathon, Cradley and Suckley.

The route crosses over to Stanford Bishop before heading back south past Fromes Hill, Bosbury and Coddington.

Full route on the Herefordshire.gov.uk website.