Route: Vandyke Road – Riverside Ride – Town Centre

August Leighton Buzzard Cycle Route of The Month

Our August route takes us north out of town on Vandyke Road before visiting Sandy Lane and returning via Riverside Walk

Route Summary

The route starts in Leighton Buzzard Town Centre before heading along Hockliffe Street. We avoid the busy section of Hockliffe Street beyond the Town Centre by using the provided cycle paths to reach Hartwell Crescent. Next you pass over the Hockcliff Road/Street roundabout to head down Vandyke Road. History buffs should consider stopping at the Commonwealth War Graves on Vandyke Road.

After Leaving Vandyke Road, the route continues through quiet residential streets to Heath Road where you head North before turning onto Sandy Lane. While generally suitable for all bikes, Sandy Lane is unsurfaced and may be muddy after heavy rain.

From Sandy Lane you head down Plantation Road to the tarmacked Riverside Walk (and Ride!), which will take you along the River Ouzel to Leighton Buzzard Town Centre.

Your route ends at the Fly Past Monument a tribute to aircraft manufacturing for aircraft such as Vimy Bomber Biplane. You are only a short distance to Leighton Buzzard Town Centre where you can sample the delights of the many cafes and bars.

Highlights of The Route

Commonwealth War Graves – Vandyke Road Cemetery: If you like your history this is an interesting as well as a peaceful place to stop. You will find Commonwealth War Graves you find dotted around the UK and the world some in the remote places where wars were fought others like this one in a residential area. Commonwealth War Graves are more than just burial sites; they are poignant memorials that tell the stories of millions of lives cut short by conflict. One of the things that makes teh ar graves so compelling is the uniform design of Commonwealth War Graves, with their simple headstones and inscriptions, creates a sense of equality and respect for all who served, regardless of rank or background.

Ouzel Valley a Green Heart in Leighton Buzzard: The Ouzel Valley is a picturesque stretch of land that runs through Leighton Buzzard, offering a tranquil escape from the town’s bustle. Defined by the River Ouzel, which meanders through it, the valley is a haven for wildlife and a popular spot for walking and cycling. Our route today takes in part of the Ouzel Valley green space by taking the Riverside Walk shared use path back into Leighton Buzzard.