Travel Greener in Cambridge | A Cycling Friendly City

One in three Cambridge residents commute to work by cycling. In a city of 150,000 people, that’s a huge number choosing to travel on two wheels. It's thanks to Cambridge City Council’s investment in cycling support and local bike networks, making it one of the quickest, cheapest and most sustainable ways to travel around the city.

The national Climate Change Committee identifies greener transport as a key way to take steps towards decarbonising the UK, and Cambridge City Council continues to demonstrate its commitment to sustainability by delivering its Climate Change Strategy to reach net zero carbon by 2030. Extensive cycle routes connect the city and encourage safe, convenient, eco-friendly travel day to day. Enjoy easy access to Cambridge train station in the city centre, the guided busway from Cambridge to St Ives, Addenbrooke’s, Teversham, Girton, Fen Ditton and more.

Get wise on wheels 

FAQs about cycling in Cambridge

Where can I park my bike in Cambridge?

The main bike parking area is Cambridge railway station’s bike park, CyclePoint, which provides 2,850 spaces. Having won the National Cycle-Rail Awards, CyclePoint consistently gives commuters and recreational cyclists a safe and secure place to park in the city centre.

Our Cambridge developments, The Icon, Knights Park, City Reach and Fitzwilliam Gate, all offer their own bicycle storage too. So, whether you’re heading out into town or you’re on your way home, you always have somewhere to store your trusty two-wheeled steed.

What makes Cambridge a great place to cycle?

Like the Netherlands, Cambridge benefits from relatively flat streets and countryside, so you can breeze past scenic university architecture and college greens, or cruise alongside the River Cam on any road-friendly push bike. 

Is cycling in Cambridge safe? 

The designated bike routes around Cambridge make cycling through the city much safer, reducing the risk of collisions with vehicles. The guided busway proves particularly popular because it's completely traffic-free. Meanwhile, routes such as Hills Bridge Road prioritise cyclists, pedestrians and buses to further improve safety, and the Chisholm Trail runs largely away from main roads. 

Where are the best recreational cycling routes in Cambridge?

Typically, recreational cyclists tend towards the River Cam towpath, the  guided busway cycle path, or longer loops through neighbouring towns which take you through Cambridge’s countryside. RidewithGPS offers a mobile app and an online route planner where you can map out your journey and track yourself en route. 

Can I access bike maintenance in Cambridge?

Specialist bike supplier Outspoken offers several cycle maintenance courses to help locals service their bikes. However, if an issue needs immediate attention, shops like Fettle Bike Repair and Bicycle Ambulance also provide full bike servicing locally.

Which cycle schemes are available to Cambridge residents?

There are several cycle and walk schemes available to Cambridge residents, including a pushchair borrowing scheme for those riding with an infant, Bikeability cycle training and the free Cambridge CycleCity journey planner.

Many national schemes are also accessible, including British Cycling community groups, where you can meet other like-minded travellers, as well as Walk Wheel Cycle Trust events and discounts on cycling products.

What should I bring with me when I cycle in the city? 

While all you technically need to cycle is yourself and a bike, there are a few things that are worth packing for peace of mind, especially if you’re cycling over longer distances. It never hurts to have a waterproof saddlebag or pannier that you can safely store your bike lock, valuables like your phone and wallet, and a change of clothes in on a rainy day. 

It’s also worth wearing some eye protection. Cycling sunglasses protect your eyes against debris, even when it isn’t sunny outside. Remember to bring a full water bottle, too. 

Is there a best practice when cycling?

• Cycling proficiency

If it's been a while since you last rode a bike, or you’re not confident in your riding skills, consider taking a short cycling proficiency course, such as the one offered by Outspoken, to brush up on your skills. 

• Appropriate safety wear

Whether you commute or ride for pleasure, it’s always wise to wear a helmet. Although UK law does not require one, accidents can happen, especially when cycling at speed, so dress appropriately for your journey. Also, try to wear high-visibility clothing and fit reflective strips or lights to your bike, particularly if you plan to ride early in the morning or late at night when light levels are low. 

• Thorough route planning

It’s also best practice to pre-plan your route using an app like Komoot until you’re familiar with the area. Wear high-visibility clothing and fit reflective strips or lights to your bike, particularly if you plan to ride early in the morning or late at night. 

For a more comprehensive overview of best practice, consult the Camcycle guide to cycling in Cambridge.

Live sustainably in Cambridge – New homes in Eddington, Fulbourn and beyond

Our vision is to be the UK’s leading housebuilder, creating sustainable homes in eco-conscious communities. Our architects and home design team carefully consider everything from the location of each development to construction materials and home amenities, creating properties that balance quality, convenience and environmental responsibility. No homes embody these principles more than our Eddington developments, The Icon and Knights Park. Knights Park, winner of the Eco Homes Award, features homes with solar energy, triple glazing, advanced urban drainage and more.

Our Fulbourn development, Farehurst Park, also delivers on sustainability, with energy efficiency as a key focus during construction. It benefits from the newly proposed Fulbourn Greenway, a cycleway designed to provide safer local cycling and walking routes between the town and Cambridge city centre.

Explore Cambridge with our area guides

From Cambridge’s landmarks, to local shopping options, life in Cambridge is full of history, culture and amenities waiting to be discovered. Visit our blog to find out more, or explore our developments in Cambridgeshire .