Bristol isn’t just known for its street art, vibrant harbor, and buzzing independent spirit — it’s also one of the most bike-friendly cities in the UK. With a rich cycling culture, scenic routes, and well-developed infrastructure, Bristol is the perfect city to explore on two wheels.

Whether you’re a casual rider, a daily commuter, or an avid cyclist, there’s a perfect ride waiting for you. Let’s dive into the best routes where you can go cycling around Bristol that show off the city’s landscapes, history, and charm.

1. Bristol and Bath Railway Path

Distance: 13 miles (21 kilometers)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Type: Traffic-free cycleway

Why Ride It:
This is Bristol’s most famous cycling route, and for good reason. Following the old Midland Railway line, it offers a completely traffic-free ride all the way from Bristol to Bath through beautiful countryside, quaint villages, and shaded woodlands.

Highlights | Cycling Around Bristol:

• Art installations and sculptures along the way.
  
• Old railway stations converted into cafés (like Warmley Waiting Room).
  
• Easy detours into villages like Mangotsfield and Saltford.
  

Starting Point:
Lawrence Hill (Bristol) — easy to find via signposts from Bristol Temple Meads.

👉 Tip: Stop for coffee and cake at Bitton Railway Station, a heritage site where you can even catch a glimpse of vintage trains!

2. The Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge Ride

Distance: Approx. 7 miles (11 kilometers)
Difficulty: Moderate (some steep sections)
Type: Road and cycle paths

Why Ride It:
Few views are as jaw-dropping as cycling along the Avon Gorge with the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge soaring overhead. This route is a feast for the eyes — dramatic cliffs, lush greenery, and river views.

Highlights | Cycling Around Bristol:

• Panoramic vistas of the Avon Gorge.
  
• Close-up views of the Clifton Suspension Bridge, one of Brunel’s masterpieces.
  
• Explore Clifton Village afterwards for cafes and boutiques.
  

Starting Point:
Bristol city centre → Cumberland Basin → up into Clifton.

👉 Tip: The climb toward Clifton can be steep. Take your time and reward yourself with a coffee once you reach the top!

3. Harbourside Loop

Distance: 4 miles (6 kilometers)
Difficulty: Easy
Type: Flat, traffic-free

Why Ride It:
If you’re short on time but still want a slice of Bristol’s character, the Harbourside Loop is perfect. It’s flat, family-friendly, and packed with waterfront views, historic ships, and lively cafés.

Highlights | Cycling Around Bristol:

• SS Great Britain, the world’s first great ocean liner.
  
• M Shed Museum and the vibrant Wapping Wharf area.
  
• Floating Harbour’s colorful houses reflecting in the water.
  

Starting Point:
Anywhere along the Harbourside — the route is circular.

👉 Tip: Time your ride around sunset for some of the most beautiful golden-hour shots of Bristol!

4. Festival Way to Ashton Court and Beyond

Distance: Approx. 5 miles (8 kilometers) to Ashton Court (more if you explore)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Type: Traffic-free and minor roads

Why Ride It:
Want a mix of urban cycling and woodland adventures? The Festival Way leads you from the Harbourside out to Ashton Court Estate — home to mountain biking trails, deer parks, and vast open spaces.

Highlights | Cycling Around Bristol:

• Festival Way is mostly flat and scenic.
  
• Explore Ashton Court’s off-road bike trails if you’re feeling adventurous.
  
• Stunning views back over Bristol from the estate’s hilltops.
  

Starting Point:
Harbourside → Cross Cumberland Basin → Festival Way signs will lead you.

👉 Tip: Bring a picnic and relax under the ancient oaks at Ashton Court!

5. The Strawberry Line (Extend Your Adventure)

Distance: 10 miles (16 kilometers) one way (Yatton to Cheddar)
Difficulty: Easy
Type: Traffic-free railway path

Why Ride It:
Although it starts about 30 minutes by train from Bristol, the Strawberry Line offers a peaceful rural escape through orchards, vineyards, and the Mendip Hills toward the dramatic Cheddar Gorge.

Highlights | Cycling Around Bristol:

• Flat ride through stunning countryside.
  
• End your journey with cheese tasting in Cheddar!
  

Starting Point:
Yatton Railway Station (easy train ride from Bristol Temple Meads).

👉 Tip: Ideal for a full-day leisurely ride. Don’t miss the cider barns along the way!

Tips for Cycling in Bristol

• Wear a helmet — safety first, even if it’s not legally required.
  
• Use lights and reflective gear, especially if you’re riding around sunset or at night.
  
• Plan for hills — Bristol isn’t called a “city of seven hills” for nothing! Electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular for casual cyclists.
  
• Secure your bike — always lock your bike, even in seemingly safe areas.
  
• Respect pedestrians — many cycle paths are shared with walkers.
  

Final Thoughts | Cycling Around Bristol: Two Wheels, Endless Discoveries

Bristol’s compact size, scenic surroundings, and deep cycling culture make it an absolute joy to explore by bike. Whether you’re pedaling along leafy railway paths to Bath, tackling the heights of Clifton, or cruising along the historic Harbourside, cycling around Bristol gives you a front-row seat to Bristol’s charm and beauty.

So grab a bike, strap on your helmet, and get ready to discover a city that’s built for two wheels!