The best road cycling routes around Bath

Road cycling around Bath offers a diverse landscape, from the city's iconic Georgian architecture to the rolling countryside of the Southern Cotswolds and Mendip Hills. You'll find varied gradients, including gentle canal paths and disused railway lines, alongside more challenging climbs in the hills. The general countryside is characterized by picturesque, rolling hills providing stunning vistas.

Yes, Bath offers several excellent traffic-free options. The View of the Red Cedar River loop from Towner Wetland Preserve is an easy 34.9 km path. Other popular choices include the Two Tunnels Greenway, a relatively flat route through the longest cycling tunnel in the UK, and the Bristol and Bath Railway Path, a 13-15 mile entirely off-road path connecting the two cities. The Kennet and Avon Canal Path also provides a peaceful and easy cycling experience along the historic towpath.

For more challenging rides, head towards the Southern Cotswold Hills or the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. These areas feature quiet roads, rolling countryside, and offer 'leg-burning climbs and rewarding descents'. Routes around Chew Valley Lake, accessible from Bath, also provide breathtaking scenery and more demanding terrain.

Many routes offer glimpses of Bath's iconic Georgian crescents and other historic landmarks. The Bath Skyline route provides breathtaking views of Bath and its surrounding countryside. Along the Two Tunnels Greenway, you'll see the spectacular Tucking Mill Viaduct and the Dundas Aqueduct. The Kennet and Avon Canal Path also passes the impressive Dundas Aqueduct and offers beautiful countryside views.

Yes, there are several circular routes. For example, the Lansing River Trail Loop is a moderate 33.2 km circular route. The Bath Skyline is another popular 6-mile circular route that offers varied terrain and stunning views of the city.

The road cycling routes in Bath are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 8 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from gentle river paths to challenging hill climbs, and the blend of natural beauty with historic architecture.

Bath is well-integrated into the National Cycle Network, and many routes are accessible from the city center, which is well-served by public transport. Specific routes like the Bristol and Bath Railway Path are easily reachable from both city centers. For detailed public transport information, it's best to check local bus and train schedules.

Many routes in the countryside surrounding Bath pass through charming villages. For instance, the area around Chew Valley Lake features villages like Chew Magna and Stanton Drew. The Kennet and Avon Canal Path and the Bristol and Bath Railway Path often have amenities like cafes and pubs along their routes, perfect for a break.

Bath is an excellent destination for road cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, though routes can be busier. While winter cycling is possible, be mindful of weather conditions, especially on higher ground in the Cotswolds or Mendips.

Generally, dogs are allowed on these paths, but they must be kept on a lead to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all users. This applies to the Two Tunnels Greenway, the Bristol and Bath Railway Path, and the Kennet and Avon Canal Path. Always ensure your dog is under control.

There are over 4 road cycling routes available around Bath on komoot, catering to various skill levels from easy to moderate. These routes have been explored by more than 23 road cyclists in the community.

Yes, Bath is integrated into Route 4 of the National Cycle Network, offering connections to broader cycling infrastructure. The Kennet and Avon Canal Path links to the River Thames and Bristol Channel, providing opportunities for extended tours. The Colliers Way, accessible from Wellow, also extends cycling opportunities further into the region towards Frome.