Whether you’re a road cyclist, mountain biker, triathlete, cycle tourer or just enjoy the freedom and fun a couple of hours on a bicycle provides, Bath has it all. Darroch Davidson from Wild Swim Bike Run recommends three cycling options to enjoy in and around the city...

1. Traffic-free cycling routes

Bath is rich with National Cycling Network routes and traffic-free paths. The Bristol and Bath Railway Path connects the cities with a 15-mile path through rolling scenic countryside, and the famous Kennet and Avon Canal provides a 57-mile scenic stretch starting in the heart of the city. Rent a bike or ebike from Bath Ebike Hire and start exploring, or if you want to stick to the city centre, book a trip with Bath Cycle Tours.

The Two Tunnels Greenway, one of Bath’s best-kept secrets, takes you through Britain’s longest cycling tunnel, and for a longer day out, why not try the Colliers Way in North Somerset? You’ll pedal through a region chock full of history, culture, good food and friendly people.

• Learn more about cycling in Bath

Image - Two Tunnels Greenway, credit @jessicamckay92

2. Roll along the roads of the Southern Cotswold Hills

Keen road cyclist? You’re in for a treat. Routes out of Bath up to the Cotswolds provide the perfect ride with quiet roads, café stops, rolling countryside, leg-burning climbs and rewarding descents. This is seriously enjoyable road cycling that will have you planning your next trip to Bath with a peloton of friends in no time.

• Things to do outdoors in Bath

Image - Wild Swim Bike Run

3. Make for the hills

You don’t have to travel to the mountains for some mountain bike fun. Bath and the surrounding hills are full of bridleways, byways and single-track routes. Whether you're looking for serious technical riding or a relaxed day on the trails around the city, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Ask in any local bike shop for the best local rides.

Whether you hire a bike from Bath Narrowboats or Bradford-on-Avon's Tow Path Trail Hire Centre, take a guided cycle tour, or bring your own wheels, there’s a ride for all abilities and fitness levels in Bath. From a couple of hours seeing the city’s iconic buildings from central cycle paths, to a ride out into the country, you’re in for an amazing cycling experience!

Image - Kennet & Avon Canal

About the Author

With the clue in the name, Wild Swim Bike Run organise active cycling and triathlon holidays in both the UK and New Zealand. They run bike tours through Bath Guided Cycle Tours, which take in the city’s most famous landmarks and join the Kennet and Avon towpath for scenic journeys through Bath’s countryside. The rides are perfect for individuals or groups of all levels, and the guides are friendly and knowledgeable.