Cycling around the Cotswold Lakes
The Cotswold Lakes is very flat and a great place to come for a relaxing ride around the country lanes.
If you are looking for something a little more adventurous, try some of the off road cycle routes – there is even a National Cycle Route 45 going right through the Cotswold Lakes, on its way from Salisbury to Cirencester.
Cycle routes in the Cotswold Lakes
There are many quiet country lanes and paths around the area, with reasonable connections from Cirencester, Swindon and Kemble Station. However, to really explore and get to know the quieter parts, it is best to go ‘off road’, along the bridlepaths and permissive cycle paths.
The Gateway on Spine Road East, near South Cerney has a large open car park where you can park for free all day, with no height restriction. Alternatively, start at one of the Cotswold Lakes Trust car parks around the area, from where you can access many cycle routes.
Please note the following car parks have height barriers:
Bridge Car Park, Spine Road
Neigh Bridge Country Park, near Somerford Keynes
Waterhay Car Park, near Ashton Keynes
Lakeside Car Park, near South Cerney
Clayhill Meadow, Spine Road
Download the Six Circular Cycling Routes and an additional 16km / 18km Cycle Route (off-road) Circular Cycle Route
Thank you to Gloucestershire County Council for their support in producing the cycle routes and the guide.
Safety first
Please note that quarrying is still taking place in some areas, and therefore there are large gravel lorries using some of the roads, even on Saturdays.
Please check your route before setting out, and ensure that everyone is wearing helmets, and suitable reflective clothing.
As the Upper Thames flows through much of the Cotswold Lakes there are places which are liable to flood after wet weather. If your route is blocked by flood water, please seek an alternative, as it can get very deep and cold!
Photo: Jill Bewley