Bristol Walking and Cycling Index

Formerly known as Bike Life, this is the UK's biggest ever study of walking, wheeling and cycling.

Bristol continues to promote walking, wheeling and cycling, making it easier than ever before to travel actively around the city. The 2025 Index sets out just how big an impact people-powered movement is having.

Every year, walking and cycling in Bristol results in:

1,185

serious long-term health conditions prevented

£506.6 million

in economic benefit for individuals and the region

34,000 tonnes

of greenhouse gas emissions saved

Up to 180,000

cars taken off the road every day

Annie Cooksley

I’ve lived in south Bristol for 24 years. 20 years ago, I started needing to use an electric wheelchair, as I have a rare type of muscular dystrophy.

My wheelchair allows me to get out and about lots and travel quite far, which I really love, especially when walking my little dog.

There are plenty of places that I don’t go to because of things like tricky pavements and cobbles making it very bumpy and uncomfortable for me.

There is a part of the Downs that is impossible to cross in a wheelchair so more lowered kerbs here would be great!

The development at Wapping Wharf has fantastic wheelchair access, including lifts up to the top level.

The year that Gaol Ferry Bridge was closed was really tough, but now it has reopened, I am enjoying the smooth and easy access across the new cut.

Find out more

  • Walk Wheel Cycle Trust's Walking and Cycling Index

    Walk Wheel Cycle Trust's Walking and Cycling Index (formerly Bike Life) is the UK and Ireland's biggest ever study of walking, wheeling and cycling in urban areas. Download the report now.

    The Walking and Cycling Index
  • Man in wheelchair on shared use path

    Walking for everyone: A guide to making walking and wheeling accessible, inclusive and desirable

    We've teamed up with Living Streets and ARUP to create a guide to support people in local government, the transport sector and spatial planning, make walking and wheeling for everyone.
    Walking for everyone
  • Lady smiling as she rides her trike through an archway

    Cycling for everyone

    We've teamed up with Arup to create a guide to support people in local government and the transport sector to make cycling a more inclusive activity for everyone.
    Inclusive cycling in cities and towns