There are many dedicated off and on road bicycle routes and safe parking facilities throughout Gloucestershire which makes it a great place to explore on two wheels. It is a quick and efficient way of exploring and you will most likely cover over two miles in fifteen minutes so a lot of ground can be covered. You can even take your bicycle with you on public transport and enjoy cycle trails at your destination.
A day on the road is something to be savoured in this part of the world and after a hearty breakfast to set you up in the charming Cooks Green Cottage, you can pack yourself a picnic of local produce or buy some local artisan bread and cheese on the road. There are also many pubs and cafes where you can safely park your bike while you enjoy a traditional pub lunch or midday snack.
TETBURY TO SHERSTON CYCLE RIDE
This cycle ride is only 13 miles and we are including it as it is considered as one of the most scenic cycle rides in the UK. Not too far from the cottage, you start your journey at Tetbury and within a few minutes you will be freewheeling through quiet country lanes, pretty villages and traditional buildings. Shipton Moyne village is where you will find the oddly named “Cat and Custard Pot” pub which is worth a coffee stop or even real ale if your wheels won’t wobble afterward! The next stretch will bring you to Easton Grey village then on to
Sherston, where it is highly recommended you stop for a delicious plate of renowned Malmesbury Gold sausages served up by the 16th-century Rattlebone Inn.
After an enjoyable stop a lazy, peaceful cycle will bring you to the magnificent Westonbirt Arboretum, in spring time the whole area is covered with purple, pink and white blossom a scene that is breath taking. After exploring the arboretum it must be time for afternoon tea (it is a good job that you are cycling!) It is reputed the Hare and Hounds Hotel serves a lemon drizzle cake that is positively heavenly. Thankfully, post afternoon tea it is just a three mile ride back to Tetbury where the journey began.
This lovely cycle ride is just one of many waiting for you in Gloucestershire and there are numerous websites that offer downloadable cycle routes.
Mountain Biking
If off road and adventure is more your thing Gloucestershire has plenty to offer in the way of trails and mountain bike centres. We have listed some of the mountain bike trails here, but unlike the more gentler pursuit of cycling through the Gloucestershire countryside, we have not personally experienced flying over a small mountain top!
Leckhampton Hill
This is a very popular spot for mountain bikers and has all the obstacles a biker needs from technical climbs, jumps, swoops and easy dirt tracks.
Cleeve Hill
Another popular mountain bike trail and forms a double with Leckhampton Hill. Both areas offer scenic beauty and history so really it is a perfect chance to hone skills and see the country side.
Redhill Extreme
This track is purpose built and since 2007 has hosted some major 4X events. The track is approximately 350m long, and has doubles, tables, triples, step-downs, step-ups, hips, berms and multi-line sections!. While it is possible for beginners to roll down the track without leaving the ground, the track has been designed for those who are intermediate and advanced. It is not designed for novices and they could be caught unaware at some points. There are numerous dirt jumps though to keep riders amused.
There are plenty of fun options for cycling in Gloucestershire whether you want to do some extreme sports, enjoy the countryside on your own or a rented bike, or simply have your bicycle on hand at the cottage to nip down to the local shops enjoying the scenery along the way.