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

1. Traffic-free and low traffic cycling routes

Bath is rich with National Cycling Network routes and traffic-free paths. The Bristol and Bath Railway Path connects the two cities via a 15-mile long path rolling through scenic countryside, while the famous Kennet and Avon Canal provides a spectacular 57-mile stretch through beautiful English countryside from the heart of Bath. 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 out into stunning Somerset countryside. Waiting for you at the southern end of the trail in Wellow is the Riders Rest Cafe & Trattoria, where you can savour a mouth-watering meal, from the venue's signature porchetta to wholesome fry-up breakfasts, soups, and much more. 

For a longer day out, continue through Wellow to join up with the Colliers Way, and pedal through an area rich in history, culture, delicious food, and friendly people. After 18 lovely miles, you'll arrive in Frome, named one of the coolest towns in Britain by The Times. Here, you can hop on a train back to Bath, which takes roughly one hour. 

• 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 northwards 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 its 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. Take a look at Visit Bath's 'Cycling in Bath' page, ask in any bike shop, or check Strava and Komoot to discover the best local rides. 

Whether you hire a bike from Bath Ebike Hire, Bath Narrowboats, or Bradford-on-Avon's Towpath Trail Bike Hire Centre, take a guided cycle tour with Wild Swim Bike Run, or bring your own set of wheels, there’s a ride for all abilities and fitness levels in Bath. From a couple of hours taking in the city’s iconic buildings from central cycle paths, to a ride out into the surrounding countryside, 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.