Cycling Collection by Cycle Sprog- the family cycling experts
4 routes
08:24 h
139 km
910 m
The prospect of crossing a border inspired this trip, and what better way than via a bridge? So, this became my starting point for our route planning.
My partner and I had done a couple of cycling holidays before we had children, including exploring the Isle of Arran in Scotland and tackling the Dartmoor Way in the South West. On those trips, we used our old-school hybrid bikes and maxed out at 35 miles (56 km) a day, giving us a rough idea of what might be possible with kids in tow.
This trip was a family affair: four adults and four children aged between 3 and 6 years old. Our transport fleet was a mix of a hybrid bike, a road bike, an electric Tern GSD longtail (equipped with two Yepp Maxi seats), and an Urban Arrow electric box bike with two benches. The destination? A summer holiday adventure from Bath to Chepstow and Tintern, with the majestic Severn Bridge as the perfect way to cross from England into Wales.
Of course, traveling with kids means plenty of stops – especially at playgrounds – so expect to spend some time off the bikes! Get your miles in when the kids are content, like in the morning or during nap times. Bring lots of snacks, though you'll likely be able to pick some up en route. If you're heading through rural areas, make sure to plan ahead with food and water or detour to a pub or café (checking opening hours). Pack everything in waterproof bags and have waterproofs or a rain canopy for the kids. We found the box bike much more comfortable for the 3-year-olds, who even napped in there at times. And don’t forget to bring paper, pencils, and picture books for downtime at meals!
On day 1, we cycled 24 miles (38.6 km) from Bath to Chipping Sodbury, where we stayed in a lovely B&B and took over the entire place by booking all four rooms.
The cycle on the first day was very easy and mostly flat, with the first part on a familiar railway path between Bath and Bristol. On arrival…
On day 2, we ventured to Wales, taking in bits of the National Cycle Network route 4. This section included a bit more riding on main roads than expected, especially close to the bridge over the Severn.
We were very happy that our 6 and 7 year olds weren't on their own bikes for this bit.
One of the highlights…
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
On day 3, we left our luggage in the hotel and cycled from Chepstow to Tintern for the day, which was only 7 miles (11.2 km). The short journey included a climb over a fairly big hill.
Not a mean feat, but once we were up the hill, we cycled down a lovely winding road through the forest, to arrive at…
On the last day, we cycled all the way back to Bath. It was the furthest we’d ever ridden with the kids - 30 miles (48 km), but very doable because we knew we'd be home and back in our own beds by the end of the day.
We made sure to get the miles in earlier in the day and then visit a couple of playgrounds…
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