Canal Towpath to Bath Cycle

Ride 12 miles along the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath from Bradford-on-Avon to Bath on a traffic-free route. The flat, well-maintained path passes through meadows and locks with a pub stop halfway. Return by train from Bath, making this a one-way ride perfect for cyclists avoiding hills. Book the return train in advance - summer weekends fill quickly. Best for Moderate cyclists wanting car-free route. This is a moderate activity lasting 4 hours. Group size: 2-15. You meet at Bradford Marina bike hire. Key highlights: Traffic-free 12-mile cycle along historic canal, Flat terrain suitable for moderate fitness levels, Guided pub stop with countryside views.

Price: £25

Duration: 4 hours

Difficulty: moderate

Group size: 2-15

Minimum age: 10+

Best for: Moderate cyclists wanting car-free route

Best time: May to September. Summer weekends busiest. Early mornings avoid midday heat and canal foot traffic.

Meeting point: Bradford Marina bike hire

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

9:00am Bike collection and safety brief - Collect rental bike, adjust saddle height, receive route map with lock and lights.

9:15am Depart Bradford Marina heading west - Follow the canal towpath through open countryside toward Dundas Aqueduct.

11:00am Pub stop at The Ship Inn or similar - 30-minute break for refreshment and leg stretch (food not included).

11:30am Resume cycling toward Bath - Navigate locks at Caen Hill and descend into Bath via the canal path.

1:00pm Arrive Bath Spa station - Return bikes and board your pre-booked return train to Bradford (journey 15 minutes).

The whole experience takes 4 hours. Difficulty: moderate. You meet at Bradford Marina bike hire.

• Traffic-free 12-mile cycle along historic canal
• Flat terrain suitable for moderate fitness levels
• Guided pub stop with countryside views
• Train journey back eliminates difficult return ride
• Wildlife spotting: waterfowl, herons, dragonflies

What is included: Bike rental (hybrid or road bike), Helmet and lock, Route map and directions, Lights for evening return.

Not included: Food and drinks at pub stop, Train ticket (book separately or add £8-12), Personal accident insurance. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Water bottle or hydration pack, Sunscreen and hat, Small rucksack for personal items, Casual clothes suitable for cycling, Phone for emergencies. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: May to September. Summer weekends busiest. Early mornings avoid midday heat and canal foot traffic..

Tip: Bike hire and train ticket included

Tip: Book return train in advance

Accessibility: Flat terrain throughout. Standard bikes available; no cargo or heavy-load options. Suitable for ages 10+. Not suitable for wheelchair users due to towpath surface..

Operator: Avon Valley Cycle Hire

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Saltaire Village (20 min from Bradford Marina walk)
• Roberts Park (25 min from Bradford Marina walk)

This activity is run by Avon Valley Cycle Hire.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation 48 hours before; £5 fee within 48 hours..

Accessibility: Flat terrain throughout. Standard bikes available; no cargo or heavy-load options. Suitable for ages 10+. Not suitable for wheelchair users due to towpath surface..

Best time to go: May to September. Summer weekends busiest. Early mornings avoid midday heat and canal foot traffic..

Is this route suitable for children?

Yes, the flat canal towpath is ideal for confident cyclists aged 10+. Younger children can travel in bike trailers (available for £5 extra). Maximum gradient is 1%, making it manageable for family groups without strong fitness backgrounds.

What if I can't cycle back on my own?

The train return eliminates the need to cycle back uphill. Trains run hourly (9am-5pm) and take 15 minutes. Book tickets in advance online for £4-6 return, or purchase same-day. The booking includes one return journey.

Are there places to eat along the route?

The pub stop at The Ship Inn or similar (11am) is the main food opportunity. Bring snacks or use the pub for lunch (food costs £8-15). No shops between Bradford and Bath - carry sufficient water.