Cycling in Cardiff
As a sport, mode of transport, and a hobby, cycling is known for being inexpensive, sustainable, environmentally friendly, healthy, and fun for all the family. It’s also something the city of Cardiff is promoting in a big way.
Cycling in Cardiff could involve rides through the local parkland, trips in or around the city centre, travelling to work or school, or even competing in mountain biking/cycling events. There are marked cycle routes across the city and bay area that take in areas like Whitchurch, Cardiff Marina, Cardiff University, Penarth, and Pontprennau. There’s also the famous Taff Trail for cyclists and walkers, which runs a total of 55 miles between Cardiff Bay and Brecon. Other trails include Rhymney, and Ely, while the city’s cycle maps and Sustrans, the sustainable transport charity promote a total of 500 miles of other routes in and around the city.
Cardiff Council also runs campaigns to promote safe cycling for both adults and children travelling to work and school, both in the city centre, and around the Cardiff Bay area. Bike-It also works with schools in the city to promote cycling, while workers/businesses are encouraged to participate in Team Green Britain Bike Week, which holds events in the city, and encourages local businesses and organisations to recruit new cyclists. There’s also Cycle Training Wales in the city that offers cycle training and Dr Bike’s sessions (mechanics and maintenance).
The city caters well for those without bikes, or holiday makers visiting the area too. Cardiff Bike Hire scheme offers hire cycles around the city, while Cardiff Caravan Park caters for the holiday cyclist. Social cycling hasn’t been forgotten either, with Cycle Cardiff organising regular rides and events. There are other clubs in the city, such as Ajax Cycling Club that cater more towards competitive cycling, such as races and time trials.
There are plenty of opportunities for all ages and abilities to get involved in Cycling in Cardiff, whether it be for practical, competitive, or social reasons, not forgetting of course the stunning scenery and landscapes there is to explore in and around the city. So, if all this has left you ready to pump those pedals, then you’ll be pleased to hear there are around 15 cycle centres/shops in the area ready to cater to your needs, and should you ever get bored (though it’s unlikely!) the Household Waste Recycling Centre will gladly reuse/recycle your bike.
For more information on cycling in Cardiff, contact the local council offices, libraries, and branches of national cycling organisations/projects in the city, who will all have further information on cycling in Cardiff.
