UK: 4-Hour Cycling Adventure from Bristol to Bath.
How to use this guide:
🗺️ Click on the "map" feature to see where each of our recs is located! You can also open an individual rec and click "directions" to map to it using Apple or Google Maps.
🗓 This guide assumes you can set off early from London or that you're already living close to Bristol or Bath. We did the trip on a Saturday, left London at 08:30 am and came back around 18:30 pm.
About the Path...
If you're looking for a scenic and active day out, the Bristol to Bath Railway Path is one of the most enjoyable and accessible cycling routes in the UK!
This 16-mile (26 km) traffic-free path connects the vibrant cities of Bristol and Bath, following a disused railway line. The path is suitable for cyclists of all levels and provides a peaceful escape into nature, along with a touch of local history.
Originally converted from a railway line in the 1980s, the path has become one of the UK’s most iconic and beloved cycle routes. Cyclists, walkers, and families flock here to enjoy the lush countryside, scenic river views, and historic towns that dot the route.
Key Facts About the Path:
📍DISTANCE: 16 miles (26 km) one way, 32 miles (52 km) round trip.
⏱️TIME TO COMPLETE: 1.5 - 2 hours each way, depending on your pace.
📈 ELEVATION: Mostly flat with slight inclines (under 200 meters total ascent), ideal for all skill levels.
🛤️ TERRAIN: Paved and well-maintained, primarily tarmac, making it suitable for all bike types.
Highlights Along the Way:
HISTORICAL SITES: You will pass by old railway stations, bridges, and tunnels, offering a glimpse into the path’s history.
Whether you're seeking a relaxing ride or an active adventure, this route offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and fun. Ready to ride? 🚴♀️
Getting there from London
Let’s dive into the details of how to plan this cycling adventure from London, including tips for renting a bike and what to expect from the ride.
If You Live Near Bristol or Bath:
You can skip ahead to the next section for route details and tips!
If You're Traveling from London, Here's How to Make it Happen:
From London, we suggest taking an early train to Bristol to maximize your time ad beat the weekend crows.
Our Journey: We took the 8:30 am train from London Paddington Station to Bristol Temple Meads. The ride was quick, comfortable, and it gives you plenty of time to start your adventure upon arrival.
Reaching Bristol from London is straightforward and convenient, making it easy to plan your cycling adventure. Trains depart frequently from London Paddington Station to Bristol Temple Meads, with journey times ranging from 90 to 120 minutes, depending on the service.
Tips for Booking Your Train:
Book in Advance: If you’re bringing your own bike, it’s advisable to book your tickets early. Many Great Western Railway (GWR) trains have bike spaces, but these often require prior reservations due to limited availability.
Check Prices: While comparison websites like Trainline or Rome2Rio can help, we’ve found that booking directly through the Great Western Railway website tends to offer the best prices for this trip.
It cost us about £50 per person for a open-return ticket meaning we could take the train back to London whenever we were wanted during that day. We booked with a Two Together Railcard which gave us a discount.
No Bike? No Problem!
If you don’t have your own bike, don’t worry. Bike rentals are readily available in Bristol, with plenty of options to suit your needs (more details on rentals are provided below).
Bike Rentals in Bristol
If you're not bringing your own bike, Bristol has several great rental options. We chose to rent from Cycle the City, just a 15-minute walk from Bristol Temple Meads. They offer a range of bikes, including hybrid, road, and e-bikes to suit different preferences and cycling needs.
Rental Details:
RATES: Prices generally start at £24–£38 per day, depending on the bike type.
BOOKING: It's best to book in advance. We opted for the hybrid bikes (£24 per bike), available in 5 sizes, and the rental includes helmets, bike locks, and repair kits.
DEPOSIT: A photo ID is required as a deposit for the rental.
E-BIKES:
For a more relaxed ride, especially if you're unfamiliar with longer cycling routes, you can also rent an e-bike. It’s a great option for a smoother, less strenuous journey!
Detailed Itinerary
After arriving at Bristol Temple Meads, it’s just a short 10-minute ride to the start of the Bristol to Bath Railway Path, where your car-free adventure begins!
First Few Miles:
As you leave Bristol, you’ll cycle through lively urban areas before quickly transitioning into the peaceful countryside. Along the way, keep an eye out for Mangotsfield Station, a historic remnant from the old railway days—it's a perfect spot for a quick photo op.
Midway Point - Warmley
About halfway through your journey, you'll arrive at Warmley, an ideal place to take a break. There’s a lovely café on the path, the Warmley Waiting Room Café, offering homemade cakes, coffee, and tea—perfect for refueling before continuing your ride.
Entering Bath:
As you near Bath, the scenery transitions from lush countryside to the stunning Georgian architecture that the city is famous for. Soon, you’ll be right in the heart of Bath, with iconic landmarks like Royal Crescent and Pulteney Bridge just a short ride from the end of the path.
Lunch in Bath
Once you arrive in Bath, it’s time for a well-deserved lunch before heading back to Bristol. Here are a few great, cyclist-friendly spots:
With a good meal in your belly, you’ll be ready to hop back on your bike and complete your adventure! 🚴♂️✨
Things to do in Bath
If you have time, you may want to spend a few hours visiting Bath. If you don't want to, skip to next section in this guide. Here are 5 things to see & do:
The return journey to Bristol
Once you’re done exploring Bath, it’s time to head back to Bristol. The return ride takes roughly the same amount of time (1:30 - 2 hours), and you’ll be treated to more of the beautiful countryside, with the sun lowering in the sky providing a different perspective of the landscape.
If you’re pressed for time or tired after lunch, there’s always the option of catching a train back from Bath Spa Station to Bristol Temple Meads. Trains run frequently, and the journey is just 12 minutes. You could also take the train back to London from Bath but if you rented your bikes in Bristol, you will to go back there first.
Interesting Facts
Built on History: The path follows the route of the old Midland Railway, which ran between Bristol and Bath from 1869 until it was closed in the 1960s. In 1986, Sustrans and local volunteers began converting it into the traffic-free route you see today.
Wildlife Haven: Along the way, keep an eye out for the local wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and even the occasional deer.
Sculpture Stops: Scattered along the path are various sculptures, from life-sized railway workers to stone markers, celebrating the heritage of the old railway.
Community Spirit: The path is a beloved local amenity, maintained by volunteers who ensure it's clean, safe, and accessible.
Accessibility: The flat terrain and well-maintained surface mean that the path is perfect for all abilities, whether you're walking, cycling, or pushing a pram.
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