While Britain is one of the world's most densely populated
nations, with a bicycle it's easy to leave the crowded main roads
behind and find yourself in an idyllic country setting. The country
maintains an astonishing complex of minor roads that links
thousands of cities, towns, and villages. It's only a short pedal
to the nearest pub, café, or guesthouse. Britain is also a land of
many hills but few mountains, which makes it easy to take in the
graceful scenery and rich history or meet the locals. As Britain
claims to be the birthplace of the bicycle (a Scottish blacksmith
built the first self-propelled bike), you can also visit several
collections of bicycle memorabilia. The Lonely Planet guidebook has
a wide range of itineraries and tours for riders of all abilities,
with detailed maps and excellent directions for each, from a Sunday
ride past London's best-known sites to a ten-day journey through
the Highlands, islands, and quiet roads of Scotland.
Lonely Planet provides in one book all the information a cyclist
will need for a tour of Britain, including Wales and Scotland.
"Facts for Cyclists" provides practical information on when to
ride, a checklist of what to bring, information on buying or
renting locally, a list of cycling events, and Internet resources.
There's a detailed introduction to the British cycle-touring scene,
with tips on how to get to and from Heathrow Airport and how to use
the excellent rail network to cover more of the island. There are
tips for senior, disabled, and gay and lesbian cyclers, and those
riding with children, as well as lists of which airlines are
bicycle friendly and how to pack and transport your bike. The
"Health and Safety" chapter explains the British rules of the road,
and gives tips for getting and staying fit. It discusses treatments
for common ailments on the road, and even explains how to avoid the
"bonk." As well, there's the usual information on where to stay,
what to eat, and what to see, and photographs (though the latter
are on the small and skimpy side). With the inclusion of a chapter
on bicycle maintenance and repair, this is one excellent,
all-purpose guide. Be sure to make room for it in your pannier.
--Lesley Reed --This text refers to an out of print or
unavailable edition of this title.