We are lucky enough to live within a mile of the Bath Two Tunnels Greenway. This family friendly cycle path takes you out of the City of Bath, through two disused railway tunnels into the countryside.
History of the Bath Two Tunnels
The Two Tunnels Greenway was opened in 2013 after years of hard work by The Two Tunnels Greenway group. It is a shared use path that connects the City of Bath with the Midford Valley. The greenway follows the route of the former Somerset and Dorset railway which shut in 1966.
The Two Tunnels Route
There are numerous starting points along the route and it is easily accessible from both Bath city centre and the Bath to Bristol cycle path. It is part of the Sustrans cycle network and is Route 244.
The path starts with a gentle incline towards the first tunnel, the shorter Devonshire Tunnel. When you emerge from the Devonshire Tunnel it really feels like you have left the city behind. As you travel through the pretty Lyncombe Vale towards the second, longer Combe Down Tunnel.
The Combe Down Tunnel is an impressive 1,672 metres long – just over a mile! It is the longest cycling tunnel in the UK. Look out for the permanent audio-visual art installation in the middle tunnel.
The tunnel exits into the beautiful Midford Valley and you cross the Tucking Mill Viaduct. We like to continue onto the Hope & Anchor pub and stop for an ice-cream before making the return journey. There are also options to continue onto the pretty village of Wellow on Route 24 or make a longer 13 mile circuit returning to Bath along the Avon and Somerset canal.
A great family bike ride
This is a great ride for young children, the return journey is about 5 miles so perfect for little legs and a beginner cycle ride. The route is mostly flat (some gentle inclines) and all traffic free!
The kids love riding through the tunnels because it is a unique experience. Look out for the information panels along the route, it is fascinating to learn more about the history of the tunnels. Both tunnels are well lit, have a sealed surface and are wide enough for pedestrians and cyclists to comfortably use together. Bike lights however are a good idea, just to make you more visible. Also it is important to keep your speed under control as it is a shared path for everyone.