On your bike!

Visitors across Scotland and the North of England are being urged to explore the Glasgow area on two wheels.

Designed to boost domestic tourism and encourage visitor spread, it’s targeting those looking for a city-break, adventure and sightseeing using a 6-week social media campaign in March and April.

The campaign comes as it was announced Scotland will host the Grand Départ of the biggest bike race in the world, the Tour de France in 2027.

The activity is also building on the huge success of the inaugural 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships held in Glasgow and across Scotland, bringing 1,000,000 visitors attending and tens of millions of pounds into the economy. *

VisitScotland, VisitGlasgow, Sustrans Scotland and Scottish Canals are behind the promotion to highlight Glasgow as a leading city break destination that is easily explored using mainly traffic-free National Cycle Routes and canal towpaths.

The campaign will highlight many leading attractions and landmarks which are easily reached by bike including Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, Hunterian Museum, The Botanic Gardens, Pollok Country Park and The Burrell Collection, Riverside Museum, Glasgow Science Centre, as well as routes in West Dunbartonshire and Cumbrae .

VisitScotland’s insights highlighted museums and galleries are the most popular attractions for visitors to Glasgow, followed by enjoying the buildings and architecture.

By highlighting numerous locations, it will help spread the benefits of tourism around the city and wider area.

VisitScotland’s Regional Director Lynne Cooper said: “Exploring the sights by bike is a fantastic way to slow down and experience the health benefits of responsible travel. This promotion is part of our work to drive domestic tourism to Glasgow, creating more opportunities for businesses and communities to thrive.

“Working in partnership to shape the local visitor economy maximises the benefits of tourism, in line with the unique needs and opportunities of the city.”   

The National Tourism Organisation’s 2025 trends show that visitors are building holiday experiences around their passions and interests.

VisitScotland’s insights show the value of annual bicycle sales across the UK reached an all-time high of £1.8 billion in 2020.**

The research also highlighted more than 1 in ten UK residents use their own bike for transportation twice a week or more.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop said: “I’m pleased to welcome this collaborative campaign, bringing together a range of organisations with a shared interest in promoting people to explore Glasgow by bike.

“Exploring Glasgow by bike is one of the best ways to connect with the city, and in a way which is better for our health and our climate. The Scottish Government has substantially contributed to the expanding and upgraded network of cycle routes across the city – and it’s never been easier, safer and more convenient for visitors to choose sustainable travel for exploring and enjoying all that Glasgow has to offer.

“Whether it’s the South City Way, Connecting Woodside, the Avenues Plus projects – or the National Cycle Network and the glorious Forth and Clyde Canal – there’s a route available for you to unlock a fantastic day out at Glasgow’s best destinations.”

Chair of Glasgow Life, Bailie Annette Christie said: “With over 300km of cycleways, Glasgow is a city made for exploring on two wheels. The first place in the UK to be awarded UCI Bike City status, it’s easy to hire a bike and join a wide range of eco-friendly cycling tours, suitable for all fitness levels. Cycle through historic streets, and charming neighbourhoods, while discovering the artistic side of the city, including world-class museums and galleries. By getting on your bike and slowing down just a little, you can savour the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant culture and dynamic creativity at every turn. For those seeking adventure, there’s the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome, Cathkin Braes Mountain Bike trails, and the Glasgow BMX Centre.

“Our vision is that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the freedom and joy that cycling can bring to our lives—benefiting health, transport, the environment, the economy, and of course, tourism.”

Emilia Hanna, Head of Programme for the National Cycle Network at Sustrans Scotland, said, “We are thrilled to introduce these exciting new day trips, offering people the chance to enjoy great days out across Glasgow and beyond.

“We hope that this will inspire residents and visitors to actively explore the city and its leading attractions and landmarks.

“By leaving our cars at home more often, we can reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality in our neighbourhoods, and promote healthier spaces where we can all thrive.”

John Paterson, CEO of Scottish Canals said: “We are delighted to be involved in this campaign which invites visitors to explore Glasgow’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture in an eco-friendly manner. Cycling along Glasgow’s traffic free Forth & Clyde Canal is a truly wonderful way to unlock some of the city’s best hidden gems. We have some amazing places to offer including our Stockingfield Art Park in North Glasgow, home to the magnificent Bella the Beithir, a 120-meter-long serpent sculpture by Stockingfield Bridge. Or perhaps you would like to escape to the Hamiltonhill Claypits Nature Reserve - a scenic escape in the heart of the bustling city. We encourage everyone to hop on a bike, enjoy our tranquil waterside paths, and discover the beauty of Glasgow from a fresh perspective.”

Ends

*2023 UCI Cycling World Championships event impact study 2023 UCI CYCLING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS | UCI January 2024

** VisitScotland insights department, Cycling Tourism in Scotland - Papers & Statistics | VisitScotland.org January 2023

Image credit: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam