Guide to accessible bike rides in Cornwall

Routes for the whole family

One of our favourite ways to explore the Cornish countryside and coastline is by bike. Delight in the changing of the seasons along the Camel Trail this Spring while preserving the surrounding beauty. 

We spoke with Kelly Arries, Director at Bridge Bike Hire to garner the best advice for planning accessible family bike rides in North Cornwall. 

© Bridge Bike Hire (left)

About Bridge Bike Hire

Where to find them: The Camel Trail, Eddystone Road, Wadebridge, PL27 7AL

Adaptive bikes avilable for hire: adult trikes, tandem bikes, child trailers, trailer bikes/trikes, electric bikes, dog trailers and wheelchair bikes (coming soon)

Whether you’re a cycling novice or seasoned pro, Bridge Bike Hire have a plethora of bikes with varying adaptations to cater for all accessibility needs. Established in 1983, their mission to make the Camel Trail accessible for all through a considered selection of rental bikes has remained at the heart of the business. From adult trikes and trailer trikes to the introduction of wheelchair bikes launching this Easter, there are options for the whole family. Forever looking to expand their range of accessible hire bikes, Kelly updated us, "we're on the lookout for a junior trike with additional back support and easy pedals", providing younger riders with more independence and confidence. 

Champions of green tourism, Bridge Bike Hire have made conscious changes to reduce their environmental impact. By no longer replacing bikes each season and choosing to upgrade worn-out parts with long-lasting alternatives, they are leading the way for a more sustainable approach to bike hire.

"We’ve worked for over 40 years to try and be as accessible as possible to everyone, no matter what their ability" - Kelly Arries, Bridge Bike Hire

Accessible Bike Routes

With some help from the experts at Bridge Bike Hire, we’ve selected the top three family-friendly, accessible cycle routes in North Cornwall:

1. Wadebridge to Padstow – The Camel Trail

The most popular route along the Camel Trail, this beautiful five mile cycle promises a completely flat, traffic-free trail. Follow your way along the River Camel towards the Atlantic Coast, passing the old slate Penqueen quarry before crossing the iconic ironwork bridge. Tuck into a picnic of clotted cream and jam scones and paddle along the glimmering shoreline of hidden coves before ending your afternoon crabbing in Padstow Harbour. 

Good to know: there are several toilet facilities conveniently located along the Camel Trail with an accessible public toilet and Blue Badge parking at the start of the trail in Wadebridge, along with multiple toilets with disabled facilities once you arrive in Padstow.

2. Cardinham Woods

Immersed in Cornish history with remnants of a former lead mine, Cardinham Woods provides multiple streamside routes of varying inclines for those seeking woodland adventure. Tune into the sounds of the local wildlife and take advantage of the stunning viewpoints across the valley. For those with limited mobility, an all-terrain Tramper is available to hire and enjoy along various routes including the Lindcutt Loop as well as providing access to a network of forest roads and visitor areas. A well equipped play park provides additional opportunities to wear the little ones out before retiring to the café for homemade treats. 

Good to know: Cardinham Woods has four accessible parking bays situated in the centre of the car park in close proximity to the payment machines. Meanwhile, a gender neutral accessible toilet can be found behind the Ranger’s Hut, plus baby changing facilities throughout all toilet areas.

3. Lanhydrock National Trust 

Home to the Agar-Robartes family, this beautiful late Victorian country house stands proudly amongst 1,000 acres of parkland, woodland and heath with two miles of the River Fowey entwined throughout the landscape. 

Offering eight dedicated off-road cycle trails of varying terrain challenges, there’s a route for the whole family. Designed with little ones in mind, a balance bike track introduces uneven terrain to first timers. The Lodge trail leads you gently through blankets of bluebells and conifer trees towards the Lanhydrock estate. Multiple paths designed with accessibility in mind stretch two metres in width to provide ample room for trailers, adaptive mountain bikes and tag-alongs. For the thrill seekers, a dual slalom racetrack guarantees a white-knuckle exhilarating descent through ancient woodland. 

Good to know: designated accessible parking is available in the main car park at Lanhydrock with an access buggy running between the reception and gatehouse daily. Accessible toilets can be found opposite the Park Café and in the Stables courtyard. For visitors with sight impairments, large print guides and menus can also be provided. Powered mobility vehicles and wheelchairs are also available with level and ramped access considered throughout all points of interest. 

“We work with local groups and communities to help guide us in our bike selection, listening to needs that are often overlooked in the requirement to find a bike that fits all”  - Kelly Arries, Bridge Bike Hire

© James Dobson (right) via National Trust Images

Planning an adventure packed day out

Ensure a stress-free adventure, making memories to last a lifetime with these helpful tips from Kelly Arries at Bridge Bike Hire: 

• During high season it’s advised to book your rental bikes in advance. To ensure the up-most comfort of all riders and their needs, Bridge Bike Hire welcome test-rides ahead of booking.
• Soak in the most beautiful scenery Cornwall has to offer and refuel with a picnic while enjoying a moment of low tide serenity on the slate beach along the Camel Trail.
• We know it wouldn’t be a family day-out without your four-legged friend and exploring North Cornwall by bike is no exception. For the well-trained pooch a plod alongside your bike may be second nature, however the more inquisitive may require a dog trailer, available from Bridge Bike Hire. 

Find out more about our Concierge team

Take the stress out of planning your stay this Easter and get in touch with our Concierge team who can organise your rental bike from Bridge Bike Hire. We can also help with restaurant bookings nearby and secure you a table at Prawn on the Lawn or Paul Ainsworth at No 6. For those staying further afield, let us arrange your hire bikes to be delivered to your door with Cornwall Bike Hire and relax in the knowledge your holiday is taken care of. 

Where to stay nearby? 

Left: Harbour Walk | Right: Kilden Mor

Our collection of luxury holiday homes in Padstow provides the perfect bolthole to explore the Camel Trail. 

Moments from Padstow’s fishing harbour, Harbour Walk is an idyllic dog-friendly retreat for families and groups of friends alike. After a day on the trails step out onto the cobbled street below and you’re greeted with a foodie paradise, before retiring to the sumptuous sofa for a movie night in front of the state-of-the-art Smart TV. 

With panoramic views across Padstow, the Camel Estuary glistens on the horizon at Kilden Mor. The dog-friendly open plan design makes this gorgeous property versatile for both families and groups of up to six friends. Step out of your front door and find the Camel Trail within a short stroll before slipping into the hot tub with a glass of bubbles to watch the sunset. 

Image credits: © Bridge Bike Hire | James Dobson via National Trust Images | All other images are our own.