4.5
(128)
1,831
riders
230
rides
Touring cycling routes around Cotham, an inner-city suburb of Bristol, are characterized by a hilly topography and a blend of urban and green spaces. The area's position within Bristol contributes to a landscape where rivers cut through limestone, offering varied terrain for cyclists. Cotham features local green spaces like Cotham Gardens and Lovers' Walk, alongside tree-lined streets. Recent improvements in cycling infrastructure, such as those on Cotham Hill, enhance the area's appeal for active travel and connect to broader Bristol cycling networks.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
3.0
(1)
19
riders
33.0km
01:54
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
13
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(2)
8
riders
22.5km
01:19
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
6
riders
45.3km
02:39
110m
110m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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lovely coffee shop, outdoor seating, home make cafes, great coffee, cyclists welcomed
0
0
Balderton Lake is a reclaimed sand and gravel pit which now also features a wooded area and grassland with walkways.
1
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Small place but has everything you want from a cafe stop.
0
0
Small cafe selling drinks and cake, perfect stop off if you're in the area
0
0
There are over 230 touring cycling routes around Cotham. Approximately 108 are easy, 107 are moderate, and 21 are considered difficult, offering options for various skill levels.
Cotham is characterized by a hilly topography within Bristol. The routes often feature varied terrain as the rivers Avon and Frome cut through limestone. You'll encounter both urban charm and accessible green spaces, including tree-lined streets and local parks.
Yes, Cotham offers pleasant green spaces. You can explore Cotham Gardens, a Victorian park, and the picturesque Lovers' Walk, which is lined with mature lime trees. Many streets are also adorned with trees, contributing to the area's leafy character.
While cycling near Cotham, you might encounter historical sites like Newark Castle Ruins. Other points of interest include Gunthorpe Lock and Weir, offering scenic views along waterways.
Yes, Cotham offers a good selection of family-friendly routes. With over 100 easy routes, you'll find paths suitable for various ages and abilities. The improved cycling environment on Cotham Hill also makes the area more accessible for cyclists.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 120 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the blend of urban and green spaces, and the accessibility of routes for different skill levels.
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Cotham are designed as loops. For example, you could try the Marston Village-Owned Pub – Five Bells Pub loop from Balderton, which is a moderate 21.7-mile route, or the Balderton Lake – Five Bells Pub loop from Balderton, a longer moderate option.
Yes, there are options for refreshments. You might come across places like Caffe Velo Verde or Goverton Tea Shoppe. Routes such as the Old Railway to Newark – The Side House Coffee Shop loop from Elston are named after local establishments, indicating opportunities for stops.
Cotham's varied landscape can be enjoyed throughout the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is also popular, though routes can be busier. The hilly terrain means conditions can vary, so checking local weather forecasts is always advisable.
Absolutely. Cotham has a significant number of easy routes, with over 100 options available. A good example is the Old Railway to Newark – Gannets loop from Elston, which is 14 miles long and generally completed in under 1.5 hours, offering a gentle introduction to the area's cycling.
Cotham's location within Bristol means it benefits from the city's broader cycling infrastructure. Recent improvements, such as the pedestrianisation of Cotham Hill, enhance local cycling and facilitate access to other routes within Bristol, potentially connecting to longer paths like the Bristol & Bath Railway Path.
While Cotham is an urban area, many routes lead through quieter, tree-lined streets and green spaces. Exploring some of the less popular easy or moderate routes, especially during off-peak hours or weekdays, can offer a more tranquil experience. The Bakers Street Café – Five Bells Pub loop from Long Bennington is a shorter, easy option that might offer a less crowded experience.


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