A recent cycle tour to the Netherlands confirmed what this author had hoped would be the case - right from disembarking from the Hull to Europoort ferry, we were able to cycle to and round major towns whilst barely mixing with vehicular traffic.

Cycle tracks are usually very well surfaced, well signposted and generally very safe to use. Priorities are clearly marked, traffic lights give separate green/red lights for pedestrians and cyclists, and the provision for cycle parking at stations is often mind-boggling in its accessibility and size.

But the Netherlands still has some of the very same issues that cyclists come across every day in the UK. Not all riders are considerate, fat bikes are often silent and fast, powered scooters/small motor bikes often use cycle tracks and accidents happen. This article from 14th June 2026 in the Guardian reports on a speed limit trial in Houten near Utrecht....

Planning a tour?

There are some great websites dedicated to cycling in the Netherlands...

Bicycle Dutch is very comprehensive for all aspects of cycling

The Hull Rotterdam ferry link has lots of advice/info...

Many routes across the Netherlands have their own we pages - in multiple languages. This is the North Sea coast route

One great pedestrian/cycle ferry will take you across Europoort from Maasvlakte 2 to Hoek van Holland. The Hoeksveer website gives you all the times...