Unlock the True Cotswolds: Discover Freedom on Two Wheels with TY Cycles 

Spring. I love it. But I think I especially love the season in the Cotswolds. Lanes lined with wisteria-shrouded limestone cottages, gardens painted rainbow by tulip clusters shimmying in the breeze. Patchwork fields, where little, prancing fluff balls bleat. And above my head, where nests are woven in preparation for hatching offspring, and the budding leaves on the trees tint everything in a hazy green hue. I can feel it in the air. A freshness that signals that nature is waking up. It brings a sense of renewal and a much-needed mood boost after the darkness and cold of winter.  

There’s still a chill in the air, but with the sun shining, it’s nothing a cozy jumper can’t fix.  

The Land of the "Wolds"

“Wolds” means an area of high, open land. And the Cotswolds landscape certainly lives up to its name. Rolling, dipping, weaving, sweeping – and in Tom’s opinion, best explored by bike. And I happen to agree. There’s something incredibly invigorating about taking to this terrain on two wheels. Pedaling and freewheeling with the wind on your face. 

“In the Cotswolds there are so many lovely quiet country roads and lanes which are arguably so much better explored by bike at a more leisurely pace.” - Tom, TY Cycles owner 

Meet Tom from TY Cycles

Tom runs TY Cycles - a bike hire company that’s been helping Macs Adventure travellers explore the Cotswolds for over ten years. He and his brother Rob look after a big, varied fleet of bikes - whatever your size or style, they’ve probably got the perfect ride for you. I popped into their workshop to meet them - it honestly felt like stepping into a candy store for bike lovers. Ebikes, road bikes, hybrid and mountain bikes - they had them all! 

As Tom gave me a tour, I could tell immediately how much he cares about making sure people have a great experience - whether they’re his own customers or booking through Macs. He takes the time to make sure every bike is in top shape, drops them off at your first accommodation, helps you get set up, and is just a phone call away if anything comes up. It’s that kind of personal touch that really makes a difference. 

When I asked why he does what he does, he simply said “Traveling by bike – or foot –means you can venture to the lesser-known side of the Cotswolds, where cars and coaches can’t reach. I love seeing people experience the true Cotswolds, away from the tourist hotspots.” 

Exploring Cotswolds Gems

To get a taste, Tom offered to take me to some of his favorite haunts. So, we saddled up, clipped on our helmets and hit the road.  

Adlestrop, a petite village with nothing more than a few rows of chocolate box cottages - the region’s signature aesthetic we all adore - and a retro bus stop, that looked like it had been plucked out of the 1950s. Not a tourist in sight, not a peep. Just an elderly gentleman walking his doddering dog down the street, and a lady pruning her flowerbeds. Utterly charming. I see what Tom means!  

Next, we wheeled through the historic – and better known – market town of Stow-on-the-Wold. Abuzz with locals going about their day, wicker baskets hooked over their arms, while others enjoyed alfresco brews and pastries. We explored nooks and crannies which hid pockets of character and pieces of the past, and paused in artisanal coffee shops with bowing beams and low ceilings. Tip: don’t forget to look up! 

The Cotswolds are a melting pot of picturesque villages, as utterly charming as their neighbors. And exploring by bike means you can village hop and cover more ground without the need to race for a parking space.  

Wonderfully idyllic in all seasons, however you visit, but for me, the Cotswolds is made for exploring on two wheels.