The best cycling routes in Mendip Hills AONB

The Mendip Hills AONB offers a comprehensive network of over 160 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, from leisurely rides around tranquil lakes to challenging climbs through dramatic gorges.

The Mendip Hills AONB is characterized by its distinctive Carboniferous Limestone geology. You can expect a varied landscape including a prominent limestone ridge, open, windswept plateaus, dramatic gorges like Cheddar Gorge, and tranquil artificial lakes such as Chew Valley Lake. Routes often traverse rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and offer panoramic views across the Somerset Levels.

Yes, there are nearly 30 easy touring cycling routes in the area. A popular choice is the Chew Valley Lake loop - The Mendips, an 8.3-mile (13.3 km) trail that offers a tranquil experience around the lake with minimal elevation gain.

Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, there are nearly 40 difficult touring cycling routes. An example is the Chew Valley Lake – Chew Valley Lake loop from Bishop Sutton, an 82 km route with significant elevation gain, offering a demanding ride through the region's hills and valleys.

The Mendip Hills AONB is rich in natural beauty. You can encounter spectacular features like Cheddar Gorge Climb, England's largest gorge, or the expansive views from Beacon Batch summit trig point, the highest point in the Mendips. Other notable natural monuments include Ebbor Gorge and the iconic Black Down Summit and Wild Ponies.

Many touring cycling routes in the Mendip Hills AONB are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the popular Strawberry Line Tunnel – The Strawberry Line loop from Axbridge is a moderate 18.8-mile (30.2 km) circular path that follows a disused railway line, providing a mostly traffic-free experience.

The Mendip Hills AONB is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 180 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from tranquil lake loops to challenging climbs, and the stunning natural beauty, including dramatic gorges and panoramic views.

Yes, the Chew Valley is a prominent feature in many touring cycling routes. A challenging option is the View of Chew Valley – Ashton Court Greenway loop from Ubley, a 29.9-mile (48.2 km) trail that leads through the scenic Chew Valley, offering beautiful vistas of the lake and surrounding countryside.

Yes, the region features routes that utilize disused railway lines, offering flat and traffic-free sections. The Strawberry Line is a cherished example, and you can experience a part of it on the Strawberry Line Tunnel – The Strawberry Line loop from Axbridge, which provides an easy cruising experience through the heart of the Mendips.

The Mendip Hills AONB offers enjoyable cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with fewer crowds. Summer is also popular, though routes can be busier. Always check local weather forecasts, especially for the more exposed plateau areas, as conditions can change rapidly.

Yes, some routes combine views of the tranquil Chew Valley with other regional highlights. For instance, the View of Chew Valley – Whitchurch Railway Path loop from Chew Magna is a challenging 51.4 km route that provides extensive views of the Chew Valley while traversing varied landscapes.