Birmingham is a vibrant city located in the heart of England, and it’s also a great destination for cyclists of all abilities. Whether you’re looking for challenging hills, scenic routes, or urban cycling, Birmingham has it all. Here are some of the best bits about cycling in Birmingham:
Canal paths
Birmingham has an extensive network of canals that provide excellent cycling routes. The canals offer flat, traffic-free paths, making them a great option for families or beginner cyclists. The canal paths also offer a unique perspective of the city, as you can see Birmingham’s industrial heritage and architecture from a different angle.
Sutton Park
Sutton Park is one of the largest urban parks in Europe, and it’s a great destination for cyclists. The park has a variety of trails, from easy paths for families to challenging hills for experienced riders. The park also has several bike rental options, making it easy to enjoy a day of cycling even if you don’t have your own bike. It’s a great option for gravel bikes in Birmingham.
Cycle lanes
Birmingham is investing in its cycling infrastructure, and there are now several cycle lanes that provide safe, dedicated space for cyclists. The A38 cycleway is one of the best examples, providing a safe and direct route into the city centre.
Street art
Birmingham has a vibrant street art scene, and there are several cycle routes that take you past some of the city’s best murals and installations. The Digbeth area is particularly rich in street art, and it’s a great destination for a cycling tour.
Gorilla Coffee Cycle Cafe
The Gorilla Coffee Cycle Cafe is a must-visit destination for any cyclist in Birmingham. The cafe is located in the King’s Heath area, with a new venue opened in Brindley Place recently, and has a range of delicious food and drinks on offer. The cafe also has a workshop and bike fitting service, making it a one-stop shop for all your cycling needs.
Clent Hills
If you’re looking for a challenging hill climb, then Clent Hills is the place to go. Located just outside of Birmingham, the hills offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a tough workout for your legs.
Bike shops
Birmingham has several excellent bike shops, including Urban Cycles and Red Kite Cycles. These shops have a range of bikes and accessories on offer, as well as knowledgeable staff who can help you with all your cycling needs.
Parks
Birmingham has several parks that are great for cycling, including Cannon Hill Park and Kings Heath Park. These parks offer a mix of flat paths and more challenging hills, making them a great option for cyclists of all abilities.
Cycle events & races
Birmingham has several cycling events throughout the year, including the Mad March Hare sportives. These events offer a chance to challenge yourself and meet other cyclists from around the UK. There is a culture of time trials, races on the Tudor Grange cycle track in Solihull and cyclocross races all across Birmingham.
Overall, Birmingham is a great destination for cyclists of all abilities. From canal paths to challenging hills, street art to cycle lanes, Birmingham has something for everyone. With a growing cycling infrastructure and several excellent bike shops and cafes, there’s never been a better time to explore the city on two wheels.
