16k Run Bradford-on-Avon: Scenic Route to Bath

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 15.8km point-to-point run from Bradford-on-Avon to Bath is a runner's dream for those seeking a flat, sustained effort through the heart of the West Country. Following the well-maintained towpaths of the Kennet and Avon Canal, the route offers a rare 100% paved surface with virtually no elevation gain, making it perfect for tempo sessions or a long, steady Sunday run. You’ll navigate iconic engineering marvels like the Avoncliff and Dundas Aqueducts, where you can feel the unique sensation of running atop a water bridge with the River Avon flowing far beneath your feet. The path is easy to follow, shaded by lush greenery, and transitions seamlessly from rural tranquility into the grand Georgian outskirts of Bath.

Steeped in industrial history, this stretch of the canal was once a vital trade artery connecting Bristol to London. As you run, you’ll pass through the Limpley Stoke Valley—a landscape so stunning it has inspired artists and writers for centuries. Bradford-on-Avon itself is a medieval gem known for its stone bridge and tithe barn, while your finish line in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath provides a dramatic architectural crescendo. Locally, this route is a favorite for those training for the Bath Half Marathon, as it provides a predictable surface and cooling breezes off the water. After finishing at Bath Spa station, runners often celebrate with a coffee near Pulteney Bridge, just a short cool-down jog from the terminus.