Getting around walking and cycling

As you get older, you may want to start travelling to places on your own or independently from your parents. This is a useful skill for when you go to college, your job or just going out.  

Here are some key points to think about whichever way you decide to travel: 

  • always check your route, return route and the type of transport before you begin
  • have a clear plan so that you know the location and times of your route
  • plan what you will do if things have to change, for example, different travel times
  • show your plan to your parent or carer, including where you are going and when you will be back so that if they need to help you, they know your journey in advance
  • carry a phone number of a family member or friend in case you need to make contact with them for help.

You can read further advice on road safety on the Children's Partnership website. 

Walking

The most frequent way of travelling for young people is walking. Walking can give you time to relax and you are getting good exercise. It might be useful to plan a new walking route with a family member or friend first so that you can find the safest route.

Examples of staying as safe as possible include:   

  • stop, look and listen when crossing a road
  • avoid dashing out between cars
  • stop at the curb before crossing the street and ensure it is a safe place to cross
  • walk, don’t run across the street
  • look left, right and left again before crossing
  • make sure drivers or cyclists see you before crossing in front of them
  • wear bright clothing or reflectors when walking at night, or ensure there are road lights on your journey.

Cycling

Another popular way for young people to travel is by riding a bike. As with walking, cycling is also a good form of exercise and handy if you have further to go or when it is too far to walk. 

If you choose to cycle make sure you ride your bike in a way that keeps you as safe as possible:

  • know your highway code
  • always wear a cycle helmet to protect your head against any possible injuries
  • make sure you are easily seen by others by ensuring you are using lights and reflectors at the front and back of your bike
  • wear visible clothing
  • keep your bike in good order by maintaining it well, especially the brakes
  • be aware of your surroundings, conditions, other road users and potential dangers.

Warmley Wheelers

Warmley Wheelers has a large range of adapted bikes, which enable people with a variety of health conditions and additional needs to enjoy the experience of cycling. The bikes are for use on the Bristol to Bath Railway Path or their short Warmley Forest Trail. Warmley Wheelers are located next to the Warmley Waiting Rooms Cafe and Tea Garden so you can enjoy some light refreshments after your ride.

Opening times are:

March to November: Wed, Thurs, Fri & Sat 10.00am – 3.00pm
December to February: Wed, Thurs, Fri & Sat 10.00am – 1.00pm

Costs: £5.00 per session with carers going free.

Watch a video on YouTube about the difference Warmley Wheelers makes:

Sessions must be booked in advance. Book your session by contacting Project Coordinator Andy Underdown using the contact details below.

Getting help

Our Travel Training team provides travel training for those with special educational needs and disability aged between 14-25. They can help you:

  • build skills and confidence to travel independently
  • plan any routes when either walking or cycling

Referrals can be made by emailing the travel team. You can find further details and how to contact them in our online directory.

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