Have you tried the Fallowfield Loop Line In Manchester?
It starts from the new Metrolink Tram Stop in Chorlton and ends in Fairfield in East Manchester near the National Cycling Centre.
Apart from crossing Wilmslow Road in Withington past Sainsburys it is entirely traffic free and apart from the annoying anti mortorbike barriers is a fun enjoyable ride and is used by cyclists, dog walkers and everyone wanting away from traffic.
http://www.sustrans.org.uk/sustrans-...field-loopline