Route 51 closure: Steeple Claydon, Buckinghamshire
A section of Route 51 between the village of Steeple Claydon and Twyford Road in Buckinghamshire is closed due to HS2-related roadworks. Twyford Road runs east of Steeple Claydon towards Grebe Lake. The closure began on 6 January 2026 and is expected to remain in place until 30 November 2026.
A signed diversion follows Main Street, School Hill and the road along the eastern edge of Grebe Lake. This route is suitable for confident cyclists and pedestrians only, as it involves walking on roads with no pavement, walking on grass verges and cycling on a busy road.
Home to the two most prestigious universities in England, ‘Oxbridge’ have long been famous for their long-running academic and sporting rivalries, including the rugby union Varsity Match and the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race.
This gentle cycle explores the history of the two university towns and the surrounding Oxfordshire and Cambridgeshire countryside.
Starting at the Oxford New Theatre, ride past Oxford University Parks and on to Bicester along Oxford Road.
Beyond Bicester follow quiet roads and traffic-free sections through quintessentially British countryside all the way to Milton Keynes.
Continue on National Route 51 out of Milton Keynes and past Stewartby Lake.
At mile 66, join the traffic-free path through Bedford and ride over the River Great Ouse.
Follow National Route 12 north towards Huntingdon - be careful on the bridleway between St Neots and Grafham Water as there are some uneven sections.
From Huntingdon, join the path alongside the guided busway for a traffic-free ride all the way into Cambridge.
Please note
We have taken all responsible steps to ensure that these routes are safe and achievable by people with a reasonable level of fitness.
However, all outdoor activities involve a degree of risk. To the extent permitted by law, Walk Wheel Cycle Trust accepts no responsibility for any accidents or injury resulting from following these routes.
Walking and cycling routes change over time. Weather conditions may also affect path surfaces.
Please use your own judgement when using the routes based upon the weather and the ability, experience and confidence levels of those in your group.