Cycling

Cycle hire, cycle shops, cycling routes, off road cycling and more

Serenely pedalling along a quiet lane between drystone walls watching spring lambs or scrambling purposefully up a taxing forest track before stopping for lunch at a welcoming pub.

Cycling has to be one of the best ways to get out and discover the countryside.
You can travel greater distances than on foot but still have the advantage of going slowly and quietly enough to enjoy the finer points of the landscape.
Gloucestershire has opportunities for all types of cycling with 900 miles of minor roads, 1700 miles of unclassified roads and over 550 miles of bridleways and byways, along with forest tracks, old railway lines and canal towing paths.

The Severn Vale and Cotswold plateau offer the gentlest possible terrain for peaceful touring while the forest tracks on the eastern edge of the Wye Valley can provide wild opportunities for the keenest mountain bikers.
There are an increasing number of published routes available and the Family Cycling Trail in the Forest of Dean is a safe 11-mile circular off-road route on surfaced paths.

If you don't own a suitable bike or don't want the hassle of transporting it then why not hire one at the place you want to cycle? Many companies throughout the county hire out different types of bike by the hour, day or week. Most will also supply helmets and other necessary equipment such as panniers.
There are several companies in Gloucestershire who will give you a tailor-made guided tour, from 2 hours to all day. This is a great way of getting out in the countryside in the confidence that your experienced guide will lead you to the best places by the best routes. Most companies will also hire out bikes and equipment and cater for small or large groups.

If you want to enjoy a cycling holiday in Gloucestershire but don't want the bother of making lots of necessary arrangements then why not contact one of the cycle holiday companies who will design a package especially for you? For an all-in price they will supply you with a bicycle plus equipment (or you can bring your own), a carefully chosen itinerary (with maps and suggested places to visit) and book accommodation for you.

It is possible to take your bike with you (for a small charge) when travelling by train to and from several destinations in Gloucestershire. However, by no means all services offer the facility, and those that do have very few spaces. It is important to book ahead and check before travelling.

There are a growing number of clearly signed cycle routes designed to help you travel more safely in some of the county's urban areas. Please use these where you can, to help yourself and other road users.

	Cycling safety code Use the safety code below to make sure that you enjoy your cycling in safety.		Off-road cycling Gloucestershire has many opportunities for exciting off-road cycling by considerate cyclists.
	Cycle hire, holidays & tours Gloucestershire has many opportunities for cycling holidays.		Cycling routes There are many published routes and designated trails to help you feel confident in exploring Gloucestershire by bike.
	Cycle shops Gloucestershire's cycle shops are here to help you enjoy your cycling		Cycle parking - Take a Stand scheme Free cycle parking for small organisations through Life Cycle UK in partnership with Gloucestershire County Council.