What Does Being a Family Business Really Mean? The Bridge Bike Hire Story
When you see "family business" written on a sign, what does that actually mean? At Bridge Bike Hire, being a family business isn't just a marketing term – it's three generations working together, sharing over 60 years of combined experience, and genuinely understanding what makes a great day out for families of all ages.
More Than Just Mum and Dad
Mum, Daughter and Granddaughter at Family run business - Bridge Bike Hire, The Camel Trail, Wadebridge
A true family business spans generations. Since the early 1980s, our family was the first to introduce bike hire to Cornwall and the Camel Trail. We've all grown up as part of the business and the brand. Now, in 2026, we have three generations working side by side – from teenager to 75 – Grandma Bernie, Mum Kelly, daughter Sienna, and son Luke all bring their unique perspectives to ensure every visitor has exactly what they need for a brilliant day on the trail.
That's the magic of a genuine multi-generational family business. We're not just running a bike hire company; we're sharing the accumulated wisdom of grandparents, parents, and young people who have all grown up on the Camel Trail itself.
Understanding Every Age and Stage
Three generations of one family, all been visiting Bridge Bike Hire for years!
With over 60 years between our youngest and oldest team members, we truly understand what different generations need. Bernie, having lived a full and active life, knows that as we get older, things need to be a little easier. She's helped us adapt our fleet to include bikes that are simpler to mount and dismount, ensuring everyone can get both feet flat on the floor without having to perform gymnastics just to get on a bike.
Kelly and Bernie, having raised families right here in Cornwall – actually on the Camel Trail – have a unique insight into what families need for a successful day out. They know that happy children mean relaxed, happy parents. That's why extra care is always given to the children by all our staff. We understand that a child's enjoyment can make or break a family day out.
Meanwhile, our younger family members bring fresh energy and ideas. Kelly and Sienna's love of dogs ensures that four-legged family members always get a warm welcome. Luke and Sienna understand what makes cycling fun for teens and young people – which is exactly why we'll always have tandems and fun bikes like our recumbent Ice Trikes in the fleet!
Innovation Through Generations
Four generations having a fab day on the Camel Trail on bikes from our Family run business
Speaking of those Ice Trikes – they're a perfect example of how our different perspectives create better experiences. Bernie loves them because they're comfortable and stable, no wobbling! Luke and Sienna love them because they're fun and you can zip around with your mates having a laugh. The same bike serves different needs brilliantly because we've listened to what matters across the generations.
Our super comfort bikes, wheelchair bikes, tandems, and extensive range of accessibility options all come from this same philosophy – listening to each other's perspectives and understanding what real people actually need.
Cornwall Values, Cornwall Prices
We also know that bringing up a family in Cornwall, or holidaying here, doesn't come cheap. That's why, no matter what time of year you visit, we'll have affordable options that let you enjoy the Camel Trail without breaking the bank. Year-round competitive pricing isn't just good business – it's looking after our community and visitors the way we'd want to be looked after ourselves.
The Result? Generations of Loyal Customers
Perhaps the best proof that our family approach works is that we have customers who come back year after year, bringing their next generation with them. Children who rode in tagalongs and trailers behind their parents now bring their own little ones to start the cycle all over again. That continuity – families trusting families – is what being Cornwall's original Camel Trail bike hire company is all about.
This Is What a True Cornish Family Business Looks Like
We're proud to be Bridge Bike Hire, established 1983, three generations strong, and still the only Camel Trail bike hire with direct, traffic-free access to the trail. If you're looking for a well-organised, fun day out that truly suits your whole family – from the youngest to the oldest, two legs or four – you know exactly where to come.
Bridge Bike Hire
Cornwall's Original Camel Trail Bike Hire since 1983
Tel: 01208 813050
Email: info@bridgebikehire.co.uk
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We promise a warm welcome for everyone, even the family dog. 🚴♀️
Ready to experience the difference a true family business makes? Book your Camel Trail adventure with us today and discover why generations of families keep coming back.