Bradford on Avon, Bath and the Two Tunnels Greenway

The Bradford on Avon, Bath and the Two Tunnels Greenway offers a moderate touring bicycle ride, covering 21.6 miles (34.8 km) with 796 feet (243 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete it in about 2 hours and 11 minutes. This route combines picturesque countryside, historic canals, and charming Wiltshire villages. You will cycle alongside the peaceful Kennet & Avon Canal, spotting wildlife like kingfishers and herons, and pass the impressive 19th-century Dundas Aqueduct. The terrain varies from paved surfaces and compacted gravel to unsealed, rougher sections along the canal towpath, so robust tires are a good idea. As you approach Bath, you will enjoy views of the city's Georgian crescents.

The route is generally considered an intermediate ride, though the Two Tunnels Greenway section itself is largely flat and accessible for families. The full circuit can take around 2 hours and 29 minutes for intermediate riders. Some sections on quiet country lanes can be steep, and the canal path can be bumpy. E-bikes are recommended by some to make the journey more accessible and enjoyable, especially on the rougher canal sections or for those concerned about the distance. The trail is part of the National Cycle Network, specifically NCN 244, indicating a well-maintained and signposted path.

A highlight of this route is cycling through the two historic railway tunnels: the Devonshire Tunnel and the Combe Down Tunnel. The Combe Down Tunnel is over one mile long (1672 meters), making it the UK's longest cycling and walking tunnel, featuring an interactive light and sound installation called 'Passage'. Large sections of the ride follow the Kennet & Avon Canal Towpath, providing a peaceful, traffic-free environment rich in wildlife and history. The greenway utilizes former railway lines, disused after the Beeching cuts in 1966, giving it a rich historical context. This trail offers a diverse adventure, blending urban cycling in Bath with picturesque countryside and the unique experience of cycling through disused railway tunnels.