Bike hire at Elan Valley Visitor Centre
Elan Valley Visitor Centre sits in the heart of the Cambrian Mountains of mid Wales, about 3 miles from Rhayader. Its 72 square miles of countryside, reservoirs and Victorian dams are a haven for wildlife, and the visitor centre's bike hub hires mountain bikes, e-bikes and kids' bikes for exploring the Elan Valley Trail. It is an easy day out from Llandrindod Wells, Builth Wells and Aberystwyth, and suits families, couples and keen mountain bikers.
Rhayader, Powys
Perfect for families
Rentals available
Family cycling in the Elan Valley
Kid's Bikes and Accessories Hire includes all-round bikes for children aged 4 to 14, ideal for the Elan Valley Trail, with under 18s supervised by an adult. For younger family members, a waterproof child trailer carries up to two small children from 12 months old behind an adult bike. Accessories fit hired bikes only and can't be used with an e-bike.
Bring your dog for the ride
Add a dog trailer to a standard, non-electric hire bike and your dog can come too. Trailers hold a maximum dog weight of 40kg, for dogs already used to riding in a trailer, and are for regular, confident cyclists aged 18 and over. Photo ID is left in a locker as a safety deposit while you ride.
Elan Valley Visitor Centre
Elan Valley,
Rhayader,
Powys,
LD6 5HP
Elan Valley Visitor Centre is about 3 miles from Rhayader in Powys, with bike hire for exploring the Elan Valley Trail and the Cambrian Mountains. Welsh Water also runs Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre and Llys-y-Frân Visitor Centre.
FAQs
Where is Elan Valley Visitor Centre?
Elan Valley Visitor Centre is in the Elan Valley near Rhayader, Powys LD6 5HP, about 3 miles south-west of Rhayader and about 16 miles by road from Builth Wells. There is pay parking near the visitor centre, with cash payments taken inside, and cycle racks if you bring your own bike.
Where can I hire a bike near Rhayader?
Elan Valley Visitor Centre is about 3 miles from Rhayader and hires mountain bikes, e-bikes and kids' bikes from its bike hub. Book Adult Bike Hire online in advance and pick up your bike at the visitor centre.
Where can I hire an e-bike near Llandrindod Wells?
Elan Valley Visitor Centre is about 14 miles by road from Llandrindod Wells. Its E-Bike Hire offers battery-assisted trail bikes designed for on-road and light off-road riding, ideal for exploring the estate along the Elan Valley Trail and public roads. E-bikes are for over 18s only.
Where can I go cycling with children near Builth Wells?
The Elan Valley Trail at Elan Valley Visitor Centre, about 16 miles by road from Builth Wells, is a good family ride. Kid's Bikes and Accessories Hire includes bikes for children aged 4 to 14 and a child trailer for up to two small children from 12 months old.
Where can I ride a hire bike in the Elan Valley?
Adult Bike Hire mountain bikes are suited to the mountain bike trails, byways and bridleways around Elan, including the Elan Valley Trail and the downhill skills tracks. E-bikes and kids' bikes are designed for on-road and light off-road cycling, so the Elan Valley Trail is ideal. Every hire comes with a cycle map to help you plan your route.
What is included with bike hire?
Each hire includes:
- Bicycle helmets
- A repair kit with a bag, pump, multi-tool and puncture repair kit
- A cycle map
Read the bike descriptions and sizing guide when you book to make sure each bike is the right size for its rider.
Are there age limits for bike hire?
E-bikes and dog trailers are for over 18s only. Kids' bikes suit children aged 4 to 14, and under 18s must be supervised by an adult. The child trailer is for children from 12 months old, up to two children and a maximum weight of 45kg.
Can I bring my dog cycling in the Elan Valley?
Yes. You can add a dog trailer to a standard, non-electric hire bike, with a maximum dog weight of 40kg. Dog trailers are for experienced cyclists aged 18 and over whose dogs are already used to riding in a trailer.
Can I bring my own bike?
Yes. You can bring your own bike to ride the Elan Valley Trail, and there are cycle racks near the visitor centre. If you would rather travel light, book bike hire at Elan Valley Visitor Centre.
What should I wear for cycling in the Elan Valley?
The Cambrian Mountains can be changeable, so wear comfortable layers and bring a waterproof jacket, closed-toe shoes, water and snacks. Helmets are provided with every hire.
Is there a café at Elan Valley Visitor Centre?
Yes. The Elan Valley Café is in the visitor centre, so you can refuel before or after your ride.
Are there other Welsh Water visitor centres?
Yes. As well as Elan Valley, Welsh Water runs Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre in North Wales and Llys-y-Frân Visitor Centre in Pembrokeshire, each with its own outdoor activities to book.