Whether you’re a road cyclist, mountain biker, triathlete, cycle tourer, or simply relish the freedom that a few hours on a bike provides, Bath has it all. Here's our guide to some of the top cycling routes to enjoy in and around the city...
Bath is rich with National Cycling Network routes. 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 Bath Cycle Tours, or bring your own set of wheels, there are scenic rides to suit all abilities and fitness levels in and around the city.
1. Bristol and Bath Railway Path
The Bristol and Bath Railway Path connects the two cities via a 14-mile long, completely traffic-free flat path rolling through scenic countryside. You'll find plenty of great places to stop for a break along the way, including Avon Valley Railway, which also offers vintage train rides in lovingly restored steam locomotives.
Image: Avon Valley Railway alongside the Bristol & Bath Railway Path - credit Avon Valley Railway
2. Kennet and Avon Canal Path
To the southeast of the city centre at Widcombe Lock, you'll find the start of the Kennet and Avon Canal Path, a spectacular 83-mile, low-traffic stretch through beautiful English countryside. The route will take you through many of the beautiful towns and villages on Bath's doorstep, such as Freshford, Avoncliff, and Bradford-on-Avon. There are plenty of detour prospects too, including the beautiful Iford Manor Gardens, and spectacular historic pubs including The Inn at Freshford and The Cross Guns at Avoncliff*.
*Please note that The Cross Guns at Avoncliff is temporarily closed, and due to reopen on 8 May 2026.
Image: Kennet & Avon Canal - credit Max Rawlinson
3. Two Tunnels Greenway
(National Cycle Route 244 and Route 24)
The traffic-free Two Tunnels Greenway, one of Bath’s best-kept secrets, takes you through Britain’s longest cycling tunnel into stunning Somerset countryside, and the pretty villages of Midford and Wellow. More seasoned cyclists can peel off at Midford and follow the main road to the nearby village of Norton St. Philip, home to one of Britain's oldest taverns, The George Inn. Be warned that you'll certainly be earning your drink, with a very steep hill between the two villages.
Alternatively, continue on the greenway path via Route 24 to its southern end in Wellow, where you'll find the Riders Rest Cafe & Trattoria waiting for you. Here, you can savour a mouth-watering meal, from the venue's signature porchetta to wholesome fry-up breakfasts, soups, and much more.
Image: Two Tunnels Greenway at Midford - credit Max Rawlinson
4. Colliers Way
For a longer day out, continue on Route 24 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. After exploring the scenic town centre and its diverse selection of shops, hop on a train back to Bath, which takes roughly one hour. Before you do so, why not call in to Saddle Goose, based just next door to the station, and treat yourself to one of their artisan wines?
Image: Catherine Hill, Frome - credit Max Rawlinson
5. Roll along country roads to the Cotswolds
Keen road cyclist? You’re in for a treat. Routes northwards out of Bath to the southern tip of the Cotswolds provide the perfect ride with quiet roads, café stops, rolling countryside, leg-burning climbs and rewarding descents. Ask for recommendations in any of Bath's bike shops, or check Strava and Komoot to discover the best rides.
6. Make for the hills
You don’t have to travel to the mountains for some mountain or gravel biking fun. Bath and its surrounding hills (most notably Kelston Roundhill to the northwest of the city) are full of bridleways, byways and single-track routes. Whether you're looking for serious technical rides or a relaxed day on the trails around Bath, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Ask for recommendations in any of Bath's bike shops, or check Strava and Komoot to discover the best local rides.
Image: Cyclists climbing Kelston Roundhill - credit Wild Swim Bike Run
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