If I didn’t already know the Bristol and Bath Railway Path existed, and hadn’t cycled down it myself, I’m not sure I’d believe you it existed. You’re saying there’s a relatively flat, 13-mile-long, traffic-free cycle path, surrounded by greenery, directly connecting two of the South West’s most historical cities? No wonder it’s often considered to be one of the country’s best cycling routes.
Cycling charity Sustrans transformed the former Midland Railway’s Mangotsfield and Bath branch line (which closed in the 60s) between 1979 and 1986. Since then, it’s remained both a commuting route and a leisurely ride—and is now completely tarmacked end-to-end for a smooth ride!
Where does the Bristol and Bath Railway Path go?
The Path starts near Old Market, where Trinity Street and St Phillips Road meet. From there, it’s a fairly non-taxing cycle through Easton, Staple Hill, Mangotsfield, Warmley, Bitton and Saltford, before eventually arriving in Bath, just west of the city centre. If Google Maps is to be believed, it will take you an hour and 15 minutes to cycle the whole thing.
What’s there to see along the Path?
Of course, it’ll take you longer than that, because there are plenty of reasons to take pit stops along the Bristol and Bath Railway Path. The surrounding beauty of the cycle route is enough in itself to want to pack a picnic and keep stopping to soak in the beautiful scenery. But there are plenty of extra noteworthy sites along the way!
Most notably, you’ll pass the heritage railway stations, Avon Valley Railway, with working locomotives and carriages, and Warmley Station, with its own iconic cafe, on the route. But keep an eye out for the disused Mangotsfield Station that’s now completely overgrown for a truly special picnic spot.
There are also countless riverside pubs to choose from. Including favourites like the Jolly Sailor in Saltford, overlooking the Lock; the picturesque Boathouse on the very edge of Bath; and The Locksbrook Inn, which marks the very end of the Bristol and Bath Railway Path—how about rewarding your cycle with a Sunday roast and a pint?
Elsewhere, you won’t be able to miss the mile-long, 150-and-something-year-old Staple Hill Tunnel early on, which feels pretty impressive—and is lit up all year round. But keep your eyes peeled for the dozens of public art, made by many local artists, on the cycle path, from a Roman drinking fountain to a fidh made out of bricks.
To learn more about Bristol and Bath Railway Path head here.