Bristol Cycle Routes

Cycling Routes

Fun and quiet routes to explore the city

See the master map (*IN DEVELOPMENT!*) for all greenways, cycle paths, cycle-friendly cafes/pubs, bike shops and more here or see below. On a phone, use two fingers to zoom/scroll. Click the square in the top right to expand, which will open in Google Maps. You can leave these on permanently or you can toggle them on/off on the layers menu (Map/Satellite etc).

Green Lines = Bike paths including segregated bike lanes, car-free greeways or shared-use pavement paths.

Black Lines = Bristol's Cycle 'Ways' e.g. Whitchurch Way and National Cycle Network routes.

See Bristol Council's maps page here.

Routes and Rides

  1. Whitchurch Way
  2. Stockwood Loop
  3. Keynsham Loop
  4. River Avon Trail
  5. St George BS5 to Stoke Park
  6. See more at Bristol Council's BetterByBike website

1. Whitchurch Way

View Whitchurch Way in full screen.

Starting in the city centre, this route takes you past Bristol Temple Meads onto the Riverside Greenway (Part of the River Avon Trail), a nice quiet route largely using shared-use paths, away from motor vehicles. See Bristol from a new angle and check out Spark Evans Bridge, Arnos Vale Cemetery or Stockwood Open Space.

Key: Red line = cycle path separate from the road

Black line = on-road section

Whitchurch Way interactive map:

To make the map full screen click in the top right corner or click here for fullscreen.

Another option is to make a loop via Stockwood, through Stockwood Open Space which is beautiful. See Stockwood Loop Ride interactive map here or see route 2. below. You can extend the route using National Cycle Network 3 to Chew Valley Lake and beyond.

2. Stockwood Loop

11 Miles or about 1 hour. A great loop using Whitchurch Way NCN3 out to Whitchurch then through Stockwood Open Space.

Navigate on Komoot

View interactive map below or see in full screen here.

3. Keynsham Loop

21.5 miles or about 2.5 hours. An extension of the Whitchurch Way ride that takes you through beautiful villages such as Queen Charlton. You'll get a taste of the countryside before coming into Keynsham (coffee?). You can then take a busier stretch of Keynsham road out towards Willsbridge (although you can legally ride on the pavement here). From Willsbridge you pick up the Bristol to Bath path back to Bristol with several cafes on route!

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4. River Avon Trail

Cycling on the River Avon Trail in Bristol is a fantastic way to explore the city's stunning scenery and natural beauty. The River Avon Trail is a 23-mile off-road route that winds its way along the banks of the River Avon, taking in some of Bristol's most picturesque spots. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, this trail offers something for everyone.

Starting at Pill, just outside of Bristol, the trail takes you through beautiful countryside and charming villages, such as Keynsham and Saltford, before heading into the heart of the city. Along the way, you'll pass through lush greenery, tranquil riverside walks, and bustling harbourside areas.

One of the highlights of the River Avon Trail is the beautiful Avon Gorge, a stunning natural gorge that offers breathtaking views over the city. Cycling across the Clifton Suspension Bridge, which spans the gorge, is an unforgettable experience, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the bustling city below.

As you cycle along the trail, you'll come across a range of interesting landmarks and attractions, such as the historic ruins of St. Mary Redcliffe Church and the iconic Bristol Temple Meads train station. You'll also pass through some of the city's best parks and green spaces, including Ashton Court Estate, a beautiful 850-acre park with a deer park, mansion, and woodland walks.

One of the best things about cycling on the River Avon Trail is the accessibility of the route. The trail is well-signposted and easy to navigate, and there are plenty of places to stop for refreshments and rest along the way (including the Lock and Weir pub, pictured above) Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride or a more challenging cycling experience, the River Avon Trail caters to all abilities.

Cycling on the River Avon Trail in Bristol is an amazing way to explore the city's natural beauty and stunning scenery. From picturesque villages to bustling city centres, this trail has it all. Whether you're an experienced cyclist or just starting out, there's something for everyone on this 23-mile adventure.

5. St George to Stoke Park

A great route that take in the Bristol to Bath Path, Oldbury Court Park, Frenchay Common, Stoke Park and several 'traffic free' paths off the road. View Google route here

View Komoot route here (good for navigation)