Cycling World Magazine July 2017 | Page 93

July 2017 | 93
�n between , are three other routes to Broadheath��allow , Northwick��adywood and �empsey�Norton . Starting points are the Countryside Centre off Spetchley �oad for three of the trips and one each at the Environment Centre in Gheluvelt Park and Worcester University , so plenty of opportunity for refreshments before you set off .
The routes , which have been newly signed , generally follow quiet lanes , pedways or towpaths and are indicated by coloured symbols on a blue background , with a cycle logo . Each map will provide details of the symbol to follow , whether taking a main or shorter route . Maps can be found at� www . worcestershire . gov . uk� info�������cycling .
These make ideal rides for anything from an evening trip to a full day out , with numerous places to eat on the way or at the start�finish . The maps are full of detail , including not only the symbols to be followed and the full route , but also refreshment points . So why not get out on two wheels and enjoy the wonderful countryside in this part of the county ?
There are plenty of cycling events on in Worcestershire throughout the year , visit www . pushbikecampaign . org� for more information .
2017 Tour of Britain – Final Stage comes to Worcestershire
Stage Eight of Britain ’ s premier road cycling event , the OVO Energy Tour of Britain , will start from the centre of Worcester on Sunday 10 th September . For the first time in its history , the race will finish outside of London as organisers have opted to journey to Cardiff for the grand finale .
A challenging , sprint-friendly route has been chosen through Worcestershire , starting in the city centre between the River Severn and the iconic Hive building . From there , it will wind through Spetchley , Pershore and Upton-upon-Severn before a gruelling King of the Mountain trial towards the British Camp in the Malvern Hills where it will cross into Herefordshire . Thousands of spectators are expected to line the route taking part in activities and events and celebrating the love of the sport throughout the whole of the county .
A stage of the OVO Energy Tour of Britain last began in Worcester in 2014 , when Michal Kwiatkowski won the leg ending in Bristol . The city has also previously hosted starts of the race in 2007 and 2008 .
Modern Cycling in Worcester City
Cycling is big news in Worcester city and is growing in popularity with hobbyists and serious cyclists alike . The historic city is ideal for travel by bike , with a number of routes to choose from . A stunning bridge over the River Severn at Diglis makes it easy to cross the river and creates a picturesque circular route around the riverside .
Worcester grew as a city thanks to the industrial advances afforded by the River Severn and riverside tourism and leisure is still hugely important today . The city ’ s other waterway is the Worcester & Birmingham Canal which is a scenic route amongst the districts and has a fully cyclable towpath . Around the suburbs there are various cycle routes , all signposted and well-maintained .
The city has excellent links with other districts in the region as well as the National Cycle Network . Within just a few minutes bike ride , you can have escaped the hustle and bustle and be deep in the heart of the countryside with all its breathtaking scenery .