Potholes and Pavements: A Bumpy Ride on Britain’s National Cycle Network
Amy Favieres - Ultra Open Water Swimmer
Book Review: Potholes and Pavements: A Bumpy Ride on Britain’s National Cycle Network by Laura Laker
If you’ve ever cycled on Britain’s National Cycle Network, then you know the feeling of hitting a pothole that feels like it could swallow you whole — and if you haven’t, well, Laura Laker’s Potholes and Pavements is here to give you a front-row seat to the chaotic, bumpy, and occasionally delightful world of cycling in the UK.
Part travel adventure, part social commentary, and all parts relatable, this book takes you on a real-time ride across Britain’s cycling paths. Laker, a seasoned cyclist, isn’t just pedaling through pretty landscapes — she’s digging into the highs and lows of the National Cycle Network, from the hidden gems to the unavoidable disasters (hello, potholes!). It’s a bit like going on a bike ride with your witty best friend who also happens to have an excellent sense of humour and an endless supply of cycling facts.
The beauty of this book is that it doesn’t just focus on the fun of cycling — it’s a reality check. Laker gives us an honest look at the good, the bad, and the ugly of the UK’s cycling infrastructure. You’ll laugh at her stories of getting lost (because who hasn’t?) or riding through an unexpected downpour, but you’ll also find yourself nodding along as she points out the serious need for better routes and safer cycling conditions. It’s like having your cake and eating it too: laughter mixed with a little bit of ‘wow, we really need to fix that.’
Laker’s writing is fresh and engaging, with just the right amount of quirky insight and sharp wit to make you feel like you’re part of the ride. Whether she’s describing the joys of cycling through scenic hills or the frustration of navigating a route that’s more like an obstacle course, you can’t help but chuckle — and maybe think twice about that next ride through the countryside.
Conclusion:
If you’re a cyclist (or just someone who loves a good story), Potholes and Pavements is a delightful mix of humour, adventure, and eye-opening commentary on Britain’s cycling scene. It’s a perfect read if you want to laugh, learn a little, and maybe feel a bit more prepared for your next ride — potholes and all. Laura Laker does a brilliant job of making the bumpy ride feel like one you’ll want to take again and again — just hopefully without the actual bumps next time.
