Which bike for me - slightly creaky new cyclist?

[DarwinLoves]

I tried searching but all the threads are about which bike for a child! Birthday is approaching and I'd like a bike. I'm a (slow!) runner but would like to add cycling and possibly incorporate into my commute (good cycle paths).

I've always fancied one of the old fashioned bikes with a basket - visions of picnics on our bikes! Like the Victoria Pendleton bike and was going for that but now wondering if it's better to go for something else? Don't want to spend above £250.

Any advice for the clueless new cyclist?

We need to know more about your commute! Good cycle paths are a good start - but are there hills? Will you be leisure cycling as well? On road or off road?

From what you've said already, I'd go for an all-round women's hybrid. I commute on a road-style hybrid which is great for cycle paths and light trails, and has enough gears to help me up the hills.

Those Victoria Pendleton ones are v pretty, but also heavy and a nightmare unless you live somewhere very flat. They're also massively overpriced IMO, because they're "trendy" - you can get better bikes much cheaper, such as Boardman or Liv.

At your price range, you can't go wrong with Decathlon. Quality stuff and v good value. Sonething like this would work for your requirements, I reckon?

www.decathlon.co.uk/hoprider-100-urban-hybrid-bike-low-frame-id_8405487.html?iv_=iv_p_1_g_71489476948_c_316396730130_w_aud-439935391614:pla-329717981462_n_g_d_m_v__l__t__r_x_pla_y_15177021_f_online_o_2391736_z_GB_i_en_j_329717981462_s__e__h_1007064_ii__vi&gclid=CjwKCAiAzJLzBRAZEiwAmZb0apRiKaQ16AhAzNxKYSRuYSKsfSn4DqH_-kIMuKx_Ga6NLcVjqYXSTBoCBT4QAvD_BwE

I have no idea why MNers like Pendleton type bikes.
I guess if it's right for you then you should talk to your local bike shop.
£250 will get you something basic, not great.

Runningoneempty that's very helpful thank you. I do like the look of the decathlon bike and have been doing some reading about hybrid bikes, thanks for your reply.