Cycle along historic waterways – Severn and Thames Way

Streams weave through vast reedbeds, canals pass colourful meadows and ancient forests, rivers meander through picture-book villages built from golden stone – cycling the waterways of the Severn and Thames Way is pure bliss.

In this Collection, I guide you along the Severn and Thames Way as it follows canals and rivers 173 miles (279 km) from Gloucester to Reading. I've broken the route down into six gentle stages ranging in length from 15 to 30 miles (25 to 49 km). You can combine them to complete the route in fewer days too.

The Severn and Thames Way follows the majestic River Severn, River Avon and Kennet & Avon Canal before reaching the River Thames in Reading. As such, families and easy-going cyclists will love this route – you only climb 4,921 feet (1,500 m) in total. The route mostly traces towpaths and traffic-free ways, just bear in mind that surfaces can be a bit muddy after rain so make sure your tyres have suitable tread.

Panniers packed and bike ready, all that’s left to do is get pedalling. This Collection takes you through some of the UK’s finest countryside, cities, and sites. You ride through stunning nature reserves, over ornate Victorian bridges, through the golden town of Bradford on Avon, explore hipster graffiti in Bristol, relax in the city of Bath, and much more. From dining in gourmet restaurants to fishing in the river, the Severn and Thames Way offers something for everyone.

Waterways once served as a vital artery of life in the UK. Along the Severn and Thames Way you can learn about their important legacy and influence on the industrial revolution. You find history around every curve of the river: old dockyards, impressive aqueducts once used to transport goods, and former railway stations converted into cafes.

Your adventure begins in Gloucester, a bustling city known for its beautiful cathedral which featured in the Harry Potter movies, and renovated docks. With direct train connections to Birmingham, Nottingham, Cardiff and London, Gloucester is easy to reach from across the UK.

All that's left is to get pedalling – have fun!