When the old Midland Railway closed its line from Bristol to Bath, the track was ripped up and the land lay dormant for many years. A few years ago, Cyclebag, a Bristol-based cycle campaign group, initiated the project with the idea of turning it into a cycleway to join the two cities, and of course, as it follows the course of the old railway, the route is almost flat. The cycleway was constructed over several years from 1979 to 1986, bearing in mind that many sections were totally overgrown and required extensive clearing.

Starting at the Bristol end, you enter the cycleway in St Phillips Road, just northeast of Temple Meads station. It is clearly signposted and easy to locate. For the first few miles, the cycleway winds through the suburbs of the city, following the twisty route of the old Midland line. This section is used extensively by commuters who can comfortably average around 15 to 20 kilometers an hour compared to the average car speed of 10 to 15 in Bristol's horrendous rush-hour traffic.

The path rises slowly towards Fishponds, running through a very built-up area, albeit via cuttings that have been allowed to retain their natural undergrowth, lending a rural feel to such an urban area. You then pass through Staple Hill Tunnel, almost 500 yards long, with recently installed lighting inmproving the safety aspect for all.

After another mile or so, the route crosses a major road at Warmley, where you will find two roadside pubs, enjoyable not just for the opportunity to grab a beer, but also for the railway connections both still retain (see pictures).

Beyond here, you approach Bitton, where the old tracks are still used by a preservation society who organise steam trips along a small section of the line. Once clear of Bitton, the countryside takes over, with views across the southern Cotswolds before crossing the River Avon at Saltford and entering the tranquil setting of Kelston Park.

You are now entering the western suburbs of Bath, where the cycleway follows the canal towpath into the city centre and journey's end.

There are several attractions en route, including the picturesque remains of Mangotsfield Station, once an important junction; the preserved signal box and waiting room at the old Warmley Station (see picture); Willsbridge Mill visitor centre, where Avon Wildlife Trust have set up a nature reserve; the aforementioned Bitton Station with its regular "steam days"; and finally, the "Dramway," where the Bristol-to-Bath route follows the old Avon & Gloucester Railway line, opened in 1832 to carry coal from the collieries at Coalpit Heath to Keynsham for onward distribution via the nearby Kennet & Avon canal.

The pathway/cycle route is owned and maintained by the various councils whose land it crosses and is kept in good condition for the enjoyment and benefit of all. All the land was bought from British Rail and the major funding was provided by the Manpower Services Commission.