Top 5 Bristol Cycling Routes

Bristol was the UK’s first Cycling City and it now boasts more cycling commuters than many much larger cities. There are several options to hire bikes in the city, even a tandem! Lots of marked routes traverse and surround the city, here are a few of our favourites: 

NB: Please check ahead on Sustrans website for any closures and information about these routes.

Image - Cyclist in Wapping Wharf. Credit: Sustrans

Bristol Docks Loop

(View Sustrans route)

The pathway continues around the harbour in each direction, forming a great loop where highlights include Brunel’s SS Great Britain, the colourful houses of Cliftonwood and numerous bars and restaurants in which to recharge those aching legs. 

Bristol and Bath Railway Path

(Route 4)

This is the one that started them all, the Bristol and Bath Railway Path was the first completely off-road cycle path in the country completed by cycling charity Sustrans. The 13-mile/21km route is perfect for a day trip out of the city, with suitable cafes and country pubs on the way to Bath for those much-needed pit-stops. Cycle back or grab a bike spot on the train for the return journey to Bristol. 

• Learn moe about the story of the Bristol and Bath Railway Path

Festival Way

(Route 33)

Bristol Harbourside to Nailsea via Ashton Court Estate, 850-acres of woodland and grassland and home to the annual Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. This 8-mile/13km route also passes close to the fantastic National Trust property of Tyntesfield which can be combined for a full day out. Sustrans is currently developing the route to continue on from Nailsea to to Coastal Somerset.

The Strawberry Line

(View Sustrans route)

To the south of the city, take the train or drive to Yatton (or even combine with the Festival Way, above) for this relatively flat 10-mile route to the stunning Cheddar Gorge. Discover the beauty of English cider orchards (the route goes via the Thatchers Cider Farm) and the Mendip hills to historic Axbridge. 

Once you reach Cheddar Gorge & Caves, there are places to lock your bike while you explore the cliffs and show caves of the largest gorge in England. 

• More things to do in North Somerset

Ashton Court

(Route 334)

Roll across the Clifton Suspension Bridge and into Ashton Court Estate with its 850-acres of publicly-owned woodland and grassland. There are woodland trails for mountain bikers, with bikes available to hire from Pedal Progression on-site. 

Ashton Court also offers fantastic views of the city and it is where most of the hot air balloons take off from (just near the Mansion House). Look out for the herds of deer too! 

Roll over to our cycling pages and Sustrans to find out more.

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