SOMERSET boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. So why aren’t more people exploring it by bike? Life Cycle UK’s Aleks Rojek gives us the low down.

Every year hundreds of cyclists cross Somerset through Cheddar Gorge to finish an epic 205-mile cycle across the UK, from the Kent coast to Burnham-on-Sea.

Chase the Sun is an annual physical, motivational and navigational challenge, bringing cyclists from across the UK together for their shared love of cycling. Two weeks ago, on the 18th of June, hundreds of intrepid cyclists arrived at the coast by sunset. But just as fast as they came, they left.

In sharp contrast to this influx, just 12% of adult Somerset residents cycle once a week – and only 5% cycle three times per week or more. So why isn’t Somerset a cycling hotspot all year round?

According to the Somerset County Council, much of the cycle network in Taunton, Yeovil and Bridgewater is “disjointed, lacks cohesion and is not always well maintained”.

That hardly sounds inviting to regular local cyclists, let alone nervous cyclists, disabled people or people with children.

Aleks Rojek 
Life Cycle UK

The good news is that Somerset is on its own journey to developing new cycling and walking routes which are “connected, better quality, safe and accessible”. The Local Cycle and Walking Infrastructure Plans (LCWIPs) are 10-year plans set to transform Somerset’s cycle routes.

By providing better cycling infrastructure for short, everyday journeys, these plans will help Somerset to become carbon neutral by 2030. We hope they will also encourage more tourists to explore Somerset by bike.

My charity, Life Cycle UK, believes that good cycling infrastructure is vital, but we don’t need to wait for perfection. We offer a range of practical support to help more people cycle safely and confidently, in all kinds of conditions.

Our ‘Get Somerset Cycling’ campaign supports Somerset residents at every stage of their cycling journey: We help adults to build skills and confidence through our free cycle sessions, and provide secure cycle parking for local organisations.

Our experienced cycle instructors know Somerset like the back of their hands. They can help you find cycle-friendly routes and provide top tips on cycling confidently on the road. Whether you’re learning to ride or trying a new route, we’re here to make cycling safe and enjoyable for everyone!

Join the community and start your cycling journey today! Go to lifecycleuk.org.uk/get-somerset-cycling.