Millennium Mileposts
Discover these artworks on the National Cycle Network.
The Millennium Mileposts are cast-iron sculptures that help people navigate the National Cycle Network.
You’ll find four different milepost designs in both rural and urban locations on routes all across the UK.
We commissioned four artists from the four countries of the United Kingdom to design these artworks.
Unveiled in the year 2000, they are a celebration of the freedom and diversity of the National Cycle Network.
Over 1,000 Millennium Mileposts were installed, stretching to all corners of the UK, some as far north as the Shetland Islands.
You’ll find them at scenic spots on the Network, such as coastal paths and nature reserves.
They can also be found at train stations and other key locations where the Network runs through villages, towns and cities.
Work to preserve 1,000 Millennium Milepost artworks around the UK begins
The UK-wide project to audit and repaint the mileposts celebrates 21 years since they were first installed on the National Cycle Network.
Browse the interactive map below to find a Millennium Milepost
Zoom in to see images and find out more about a milepost.
Use the magnifying glass button at the top right of the map to search for a location.
You can also open the map in a new window.
Map key
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Dudgeon milepost |  |
Dudgeon milepost - needs painting |
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McColl milepost |  |
McColl milepost - needs painting |
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Mills milepost |  |
Mills milepost - needs painting |
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Rowe milepost |  |
Rowe milepost - needs painting |
The four Millennium Milepost designs
The first post to be commissioned was designed by Brighton-based Jon Mills, entitled The Fossil Tree.
The post takes the form of an abstract tree with relief imagery of fossils depicting the passage of time from early primitive creatures to the ultimate demise of fossil fuel-driven technology.
The Scottish sculptor Iain McColl designed the second post, The Cockerel.
The influences behind this one are Miro's The Fork and Branusci's The Cock.
This design has additional space that has been left for partners to cast their own short message.
A Millennium Milepost designed by Ian McColl in Coatbridge, Scotland.
The design by Welsh artist Andrew Rowe is based upon the nautical and industrial heritage of his native Swansea, and can have up to four directional fingers.
The fourth post is titled Tracks, designed by Belfast artist David Dudgeon.
The main design on this milepost shows the tracks made in the landscape by cyclists.
This is complemented by a piece of text exploring sensations and observations one makes whilst travelling through various environments.
Got a photo of a Millennium Milepost? Share it in our Facebook group
Since being installed, the Millennium Mileposts have been looked after by volunteers from Sustrans and local communities.