Make the most of autumn by getting out and about on your bike. Although there are some hills around Cheltenham (we’re looking at you, Leckhampton…) there’s also a lot of flatter areas and some shorter routes for younger cyclists.
We’ve picked our three favourite routes in and around Cheltenham, with a good mix of intensity length so there’s a – ahem – wheely good day out for everyone (sorry, not sorry).
The Gloucester and Sharpness Canal
This is a nice, medium-length and undemanding route for anyone who fancies a tootle along the waterside. It’s around 16 miles long and starts at Gloucester Docks, winding its way along the Severn Estuary and passing by Slimbridge Wetland Centre.
It’s flat along the whole route and all of the paths are well maintained, promising a smooth ride for all abilities. You might see quite a bit of wildlife as you ride along, as well as some history if you head into the Purton Ships’ Graveyard.
Pittville Park in Cheltenham
A popular route for families with younger children, Pittville Park gives cyclists lots of spaces and paths to explore – both on pedal and on foot. It’s mostly flat and you’ll see lots of families biking around the lakes on autumnal days as there’s the added benefit of the park’s cafes for a quick pitstop.
For the more adventurous of spirit, Pittville Park also offers a skatepark, which is suitable for BMX bikes and for skateboards, so there’s something for older children and teens, too.
Cheltenham-based cycling fans are getting another route later in 2024 when the new 26-mile stretch between Bishops Cleeve and Gloucester is completed after work began earlier in the year.
A tour of three Cotswolds Villages
A somewhat more challenging ride, this 39-mile route takes you through three famous Cotswold villages and up and down lots of hills (you’ll climb almost 4,000 feet in total). You start off in Stanton, which dates back to the 17th century, before heading to Winchcombe and its Sudeley Castle, before returning to Cheltenham via Guiting Power.
Lots of miles, but you will find a couple of pubs and a bakery in Guiting to refresh yourself for the final leg.
