Get set for a Summer of Cycling and Walking
Published: 30 July 2021
People in Exeter are being encouraged to leave the car behind and enjoy a summer of cycling and walking.
The City Council is backing the Department for Transport’s (DfT) Summer of Cycling and Walking campaign which strives to make cycling and walking the natural first choice for short journeys.
The campaign is designed to inspire the nation to take up and enjoy the benefits of active travel as lockdown restrictions ease. The campaign also fits in with the city’s ambitions to become net zero carbon by 2030.
Exeter has a good network of cycle lanes and shared footpaths. It also has plenty of green spaces to explore on foot, including the Valley Parks and the Exeter Ship Canal.
Going slightly further afield, cyclists can pick up the Exe Estuary Trail down both sides of the estuary, offering mostly flat cycling, beautiful views and opportunities to see wildlife along the way.
For those looking for a bit of serenity or action in a woodland setting, why not get along to Haldon Forest Park, where cyclists of all ages and abilities can get stuck in to a series of cycling or mountain bike trails.
Throw in the South West Coastal Path and miles and miles of accessible footpaths and tracks and there’s no excuse for not getting out for an energetic hike or a gentle stroll!
Cyclists wanting to get around the city with a ‘helping hand’ can take advantage of Co Bikes, a network of on-demand electric bikes that can he hired out across the city. Find out more by visiting the Co Bikes website https://www.co-bikes.co.uk/
In September, cycling fans in Exeter and Devon will be treated to first class cycling action when the Tour of Britain comes to Devon.
A gruelling 115-mile race across the county will involve some of the world’s top cyclists and climax with a race finish in Exeter’s Queen Street on Monday 6 September. For more information visit The Tour of Britain website and the Tour of Britain Devon Stage website.
To find out more about the Summer of Cycling and Walking Campaign check out the DfT’s social media channels on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.