The Varsity Way Map | Oxford to Cambridge Cycle Route (Route 51)

Sustrans' The Varsity Way map is the official cycle route map for the 124-mile (199km) ride linking the university cities of Oxford and Cambridge using National Route 51.

Long-distance cycle map for Oxford to Cambridge bike ride using NCN 51

Oxford and Cambridge are home to the two oldest universities in the UK. Collectively known as ‘Oxbridge’, the two universities were founded more than 800 years ago and between them have educated some of the world’s most prominent scientists, writers, politicians and noted figures in countless other fields. Their long-running rivalry is kept alive by the annual sporting contests known as varsity matches, where the dark blues of Oxford and light blues of Cambridge compete for supremacy - most famously in the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race.

The two cities are also linked by the Varsity Way cycle route, which takes you the 124 miles from the River Thames (known in Oxford as the Isis) to the River Cam. The ride starts among the dreaming spires of Oxford and finishes near the national treasures of Magdalene College and the Bridge of Sighs. Following Route 51, the route runs through North Oxford to Bicester, before taking you on to Milton Keynes. The route continues to Bedford and onwards through the iconic Cambridgeshire countryside to Huntingdon, where the route joins the new path alongside the guided busway for a traffic-free ride all the way into Cambridge.

The full-colour map based on Ordnance Survey data shows clearly mapped cycle routes on traffic-free paths, quiet lanes and roads, with easy-to-read contours, route profiles and mile markers. Also features detailed inset maps for the major towns and cities, tourist info and cycle shop and hire information, and other local routes. 

Shop all our long-distance cycle maps here.

Map details:

Publisher: Sustrans

ISBN: 9781910845417

Published: June 2017

Scale: 1:110,000

Miles: 124

Size: 12.5 x 23.5cm folded, 62.5 x 47cm unfolded

Paper: Printed on waterproof, tear-resistant paper with plastic cover

We are improving the National Cycle Network to make it more accessible for everyone. As part of our Paths for Everyone vision, some sections of the Network have been removed or reclassified. There may be sections within these maps that are no longer part of the Network. These sections are likely to be on busier roads and will suit more experienced cyclists.