FAQs
How did it all begin?
Sustrans began life as Cyclebag, a charity set up in July 1977 in response to an energy crisis that was encouraging the whole world to look at different ways of travelling. Cycling was seen as an obvious energy efficient way of travelling short distances. It became immediately clear that sustainable transport was the wider framework within which cycling and also walking would become increasingly relevant, and Sustrans (an elegant blending of the words sustainable transport) was born.
Since then the charity has benefited many thousands of people all over the UK. 75% of people in the UK now live within a couple of miles of the National Cycle Network (the nation's favourite lottery funded project), and hundreds of thousands of children and their families have benefited from Safe Routes to School and Bike It.
How is Sustrans funded?
Sustrans is a charity so we rely on funding from a variety of sources including charitable trusts, lottery funding, government and the private sector. Our biggest project, the National Cycle Network was made possible with a lottery grant of £43.5 million. Sustrans 40,000 supporters provide vital core funding.
Where can I buy Sustrans maps and books?
Our online shop carries the complete range of Sustrans maps and books. Sustrans maps can also be bought from Stanfords map suppliers in Bristol, London and Manchester. Cycling in the UK - the Guide to the National Cycle Network can be bought at all good bookshops including WH Smith and Waterstones.
How do you develop the National Cycle Network?
The National Cycle Network currently runs within 2 miles of 75% of the UK population. Sustrans would ultimately like the Network to be accessible to as many people as possible and to run through every city, bringing communities together and providing links to shops, schools, and, farther afield to other towns and cities.
To do this we work with local people, local authorities, partners and other landowners to identify potential new cycling and walking routes. Once a proposed route is identified we follow a consultation process that involves all interested parties. New National Cycle Network routes can follow existing roads, or cycle paths. As part of the process surveys are carried out which assess the impact the path would have on, for example, the local environment. Anyone can make a suggestion for a cycle route they'd like to see in their area, our aim is to develop popular routes that are useful to local people and visitors alike.
How do I find out about routes near me?
Our online mapping facility features National Cycle Network regional and national routes as well as other cycle routes. Details of many easy rides and longer distance routes are available within the near you section where you will find suggested routes in your area. You can also call the Sustrans information line on tel: 0845 113 0065 (UK local rate).
Why don't Sustrans use Google Maps or OpenStreetMap?
A Google or OpenStreetMap API (a map that can sit within another web page) re-loads the data attached to it each time you move or zoom the map. Our dataset is over 80Mb so this would run very slowly.
We use Ordnance Survey 1:10 000 and 1:25 000 scale maps as our backgrounds for several reasons:
They are based on the same map product and so will match up with each other at each zoom level. This means that routes will appear correctly against the different backgrounds. For example, a route plotted down one side of a carriageway against the 1:25 000 will appear on the same side of the carriageway when viewed against the 1:10 000 background.
Google mapping is not consistently detailed enough in all areas of the country for our needs. Also areas of shadow created, for example by tree-lined lanes, can obscure important information for cyclists and walkers. We believe that Ordnance Survey backgrounds give much better detail in both rural and urban areas.
How can I get involved?
Volunteers help Sustrans in many ways. This has enabled us to achieve much more, and it has also given our volunteers a stake in our work, ensuring that our practical projects are responsive to the needs of local communities. Visit our Get involved page to see how you can help.
By becoming a Sustrans Supporter you can help us to get more people cycling and walking as well as receive regular newsletters and information on the work of Sustrans.
What does Sustrans do for young people/children?
We pioneered the Safe Routes to School scheme which works to promote cycling and walking to thousands of young people across the UK. Our Bike It project goes into schools to inspire and enthuse would-be cyclists with a range of activities. It is already quadrupling cycling levels in the schools where it operates.
How do I know when I'm on the National Cycle Network?
The National Cycle Network is made up of National and Regional routes. National routes are high quality linear routes that link major towns and cities, these carry a blue and white sign and arrow and a red number. Regional routes are also built to a high standard and tend to link up smaller urban centres, often as a network of circular routes. These carry a blue and white sign and arrow and a blue number.
Is the National Cycle Network just for cyclists?
No, it is popular with walkers, wheelchair uses and horseriders. Half of all trips made on the National Cycle Network are walking trips and one third of the Network is traffic-free.
Can I visit Sustrans?
Yes. The headquarters of the National Cycle Network is at 2 Cathedral Square in Bristol, there you'll find a variety of maps and publications available to buy and an information team to help you plan your trip. We are also available by telephone from 9am to 5pm weekdays (except Bank Holidays) on tel: 0845 113 0065.
Where can I find out about taking bikes on trains?
Our online mapping will tell you where to find railway stations nearest to the National Cycle Network. The website atob.org.uk has information on all train companies and their policies on bike carriage.
Where can I get cycle training?
The south west based charity Lifecycle UK offer cycle training for adults, visit www.lifecycleuk.org for details. For more information about UK wide opportunities for cycle training, please visit www.bikeforall.net.
What sort of bike should I buy?
Think about your needs. What will you use the bike for? Commuting? Leisure? Taking on the train or bus? Any good bike shop will be able to advise you on the best bike to suit your needs and budget. They will also be able to help you find the best bike to fit you - one size does not fit all when it comes to bikes!
For help and advice see www.thecyclingexperts.co.uk to locate a specialist retailer in your area.