Cycling in Birmingham: Urban Paths, Canalside Routes and Green Getaways
Jul 01, 2025
Best suited for commuter cyclists, active individuals, and family day trips.
Whether you’re commuting to work, keeping active, or heading out with the family, Birmingham offers an impressive variety of cycling routes to suit every need. Thanks to major investments in cycle infrastructure and a strong community spirit, the city has become one of the UK’s most exciting urban cycling destinations.
If your little one’s tagging along, don’t forget to check Little Gliders for comfortable, safe and stylish cycles for kids of all ages.
The Rise of Cycling in Birmingham
Cycling is booming in Birmingham. From hosting the 2016 British Cycling National Criterium Championships to the incredible success of the Big Birmingham Bikes initiative, Brum has embraced the cycling movement with open arms. The city now boasts a growing number of traffic-free routes, canal towpaths, cycleways and green corridors.
And there’s something for everyone: elite athletes, everyday commuters, casual riders, and weekend adventurers all have a place here.
Getting Started: Urban Routes and Cycleways
A34 and A38 Blue Cycle Routes
One of the most exciting additions to Birmingham’s infrastructure are the A34 and A38 Blue Cycle Routes. These dedicated, blue-surfaced cycleways are largely segregated from traffic and feature cyclist-only signals at major junctions.
- The A34 route connects Heathfield Road to the City Centre.
- The A38 route stretches from Selly Oak into town, providing safe passage through the heart of South Birmingham.
These routes are ideal for new cyclists, students, and workers looking for a safer and more accessible daily commute.
Pop-up Cycle Lanes
Brought to life by the Emergency Active Travel Fund, pop-up cycle lanes have expanded cycling access across the city. These temporary lanes offer new, safer spaces for cycling on Birmingham’s roads, and have been warmly welcomed by both leisure and commuter cyclists.
Exploring Birmingham by Canal
Canalside Cycling: The City’s Hidden Arteries
With over 50km of resurfaced canal towpaths, Birmingham’s waterways are a cyclist’s dream. Flat, traffic-free and packed with heritage, these routes offer a tranquil escape from city congestion.
Here are some of the best canal-side rides:
1. Birmingham Canal to Wolverhampton (15 miles)
Start near New Street Station and follow the canal towpath all the way to Wolverhampton. Ideal for a long, scenic ride filled with industrial history – but note that some sections are better suited to hybrid or mountain bikes.
2. Worcester & Birmingham Canal
Follow this peaceful route from Moseley or Tyseley, winding along the water and through city greenways. It’s a favourite for families, thanks to flat terrain and lush views.
3. The Soho Loop & BCN Main Line
Shorter loops such as the Soho Loop offer quick urban escapes with views of canal boats, historic bridges, and leafy walkways. Perfect for weekday evening spins.
Green Getaways: Parks, Nature, and Day Rides
Sutton Park and the Northern Routes
One of the gems in Birmingham’s green network, Sutton Park covers over 2,400 acres. Ride from the city centre through Gravelly Hill and into a landscape of wild ponies, lakes, wetlands, and woodlands.
The route from Birmingham to Sutton Park is roughly 8 miles and includes parts of the Tame Valley Canal. Ideal for nature lovers and longer day trips.
Rea Valley Route (6 to 11 miles)
The Rea Valley Route is one of the city’s most family-friendly and versatile trails. It links the city centre with Cannon Hill Park, King’s Norton Park, and even Cadbury World in Bournville.
- Look out for MAC arts centre, a boating lake, and various play areas.
- Flat terrain and peaceful scenery make this an ideal choice for parents cycling with children.
Kings Norton to Warstock
A relaxing 10.6km canal-side ride along the Stratford-upon-Avon Canal, this moderate route winds past Jasmin Fields Nature Reserve and Chinn Brook Nature Reserve. A calming ride, perfect for reflection or low-impact exercise.
Personal Picks and Local Favourites
The Chocolate Trail
One of Birmingham’s hidden cycling gems, the Chocolate Trail starts in Bournville and includes:
- Quiet roads near Cadbury World (where the air often smells like chocolate!)
- The Rea Valley Route
- Sections of the Worcester & Birmingham Canal
- Finishing through Northfield and more connected greenways
Breeze Champion Esther Barnes says, "I love how the greenways and canals join up and let you explore the city without meeting too much traffic."
Secret Birmingham by Bike
Discover the lesser-known historic landmarks of South Birmingham with Secret Birmingham Routes. These self-guided tours take you through:
- Heritage sites
- Parks and canal towpaths
- Beautiful hidden green spaces
Cafe Stops and Community Hubs
Gorilla Coffee, King’s Heath
Birmingham's favourite cyclist cafe is a must-visit:
- Licensed cafe, bike repair workshop, and community space
- Free women-only maintenance classes
- Home to cycling and running clubs
- Popular Sunday morning meeting spot for local riders
Owner James Connolly recommends a 50-mile ride from Birmingham to Meriden and Henley-in-Arden for experienced cyclists. For something shorter, the 5-mile canal route to Brindley Place is perfect for families.
Family-Friendly Rides and Kid-Ready Gear
With over 571 parks and green spaces, Birmingham is bursting with cycling opportunities for families. Many routes are:
- Traffic-free
- Flat and shaded
- Dotted with playgrounds, cafes, and picnic spots
And if you’re cycling with kids, check out Little Gliders for bikes that are built with safety, comfort, and style in mind.
Cycling Maps, Route Planning & Tools
Plan Your Journey
- Use Komoot to find and follow off-road routes
- Visit CycleStreets for open-source maps, parking info, and points of interest
- Download Birmingham City Council's PDF route maps for the A34, A38 and pop-up cycle lanes
Join a Ride
- Platforms like LetsRide.co.uk and Sustrans promote free, led rides across Birmingham
- Great for beginners, returning cyclists, and social riders
Upcoming rides include:
- Sutton Park Cafe Ride (6 miles, relaxed)
- Cannon Hill Social Ride (28.4 miles, moderate)
- Kings Heath Park Taster Ride (20 miles, friendly pace)
Final Thoughts
Cycling in Birmingham has never been better. Whether you’re chasing distance, escaping into green spaces, or just enjoying a sunny afternoon with your kids, this city has the infrastructure, scenery, and spirit to support your ride.
From urban paths to canalside routes and green getaways, Birmingham welcomes every rider.
So what are you waiting for? Dust off your helmet, hop on your saddle, and discover Brum by bike.
