The best MTB trails in Westhay Moor

Westhay Moor offers a unique wetland landscape, characterized by vast reedbeds, open water, and wet woodlands. The terrain is generally flat, making it ideal for leisurely rides rather than technical mountain biking. You'll find accessible paths suitable for all skill and fitness levels, primarily on easy trails with minimal elevation gain.

There are 17 mountain bike trails available in Westhay Moor. The majority, 11 routes, are classified as moderate, while 6 are easy, providing options for various skill levels.

Westhay Moor is a haven for wildlife, especially birds. You can expect to see vast reedbeds, open water lakes, and wet woodlands. It's internationally renowned for birdwatching, with species like marsh harriers, bitterns, kingfishers, and migrating ospreys. Lucky visitors might also spot otters and water voles. The area is also home to specialized plants such as sundews and cotton grasses.

Yes, from certain points within Westhay Moor, you can enjoy panoramic views of Glastonbury Tor to the southeast and the Mendip Hills to the north. The reserve also features several birdwatching hides, such as the Viridor Hide and Tower Hide, and a notable wooden carved starling sculpture past the Viridor Hide.

Many of the trails in Westhay Moor are suitable for families due to their generally flat and easy terrain. Routes like the Ham Wall Nature Reserve – Willow Walk loop from Meare are excellent choices for a relaxed family outing, offering scenic views without challenging climbs.

While Westhay Moor is a nature reserve, it's generally dog-friendly. However, it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead, especially near wildlife and livestock, and to follow any specific signage or regulations posted within the reserve to protect the sensitive habitats and ground-nesting birds.

Bicycle parking is available at the reserve's main car park. This provides a convenient starting point for exploring the trails within Westhay Moor and the surrounding areas.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from around 10 reviews. Reviewers often praise the tranquil wetland scenery, the abundance of wildlife, and the accessible, flat paths that make for enjoyable, leisurely rides.

While Westhay Moor itself is a nature reserve, there are villages and towns nearby, such as Meare, Street, and Glastonbury, where you can find cafes and pubs to refuel after your ride. These are typically a short distance from the reserve.

Westhay Moor can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring and summer bring lush greenery and active wildlife, while autumn provides beautiful colours. Winter is excellent for birdwatching, especially for starling murmurations, though paths might be wetter. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, for those looking for a longer ride, the Glastonbury High Street – Willow Walk loop from Glastonbury is a moderate 37.7 km (23.4 miles) trail that leads through the Somerset Levels. It offers a more extended exploration of the region's unique landscape.

The trails in Westhay Moor are predominantly flat and generally consist of well-maintained paths, often on disused railway lines or gravel tracks. As it's a wetland area, some sections might be damp or muddy, especially after rain, but technical challenges are minimal, making it suitable for hybrid or mountain bikes.

The National Cycle Network Route 3 runs through the village of Westhay and along a disused railway line south of the village, providing accessible routes for cyclists. While direct public transport to the reserve might be limited, connecting to the National Cycle Network can be a good option.