The best gravel rides around Great Shelford
4.6
(44)
110
riders
12
rides
Gravel biking around Great Shelford features a network of trails traversing the relatively flat Cambridgeshire landscape. The region is characterized by historic Roman roads, dedicated cycle paths, and routes through agricultural land and along river valleys. Elevations are generally low, with gentle gradients suitable for varied skill levels.
Best gravel bike trails around Great Shelford
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Roman Road (Cambridge) – The Roman Road Bridleway loop from Lime Kiln Close, a 17.7 miles (28.5…
Last updated: May 5, 2026
4.6
(7)
14
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(7)
13
riders
48.1km
02:58
190m
190m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(7)
28
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(9)
19
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(10)
19
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Small village really worth visiting on a bike tour with several nice houses.
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The Windmill at Fulbourn stands on an outlier of the Gog Magog Hills 4 miles east of the City of Cambridge. Low chalk hills run to the south of it; northwards the Windmill overlooks the Fens which are at most only a few feet above sea level. The cap of the Windmill rises to 160 feet above sea-level and from it there is an uninterrupted view of the roofs and towers of Ely Cathedral. It has long been an outstanding landmark in the south Cambridgeshire countryside. It was the enclosure of the parish for the improvement of cultivation that led to the building of the present Windmill. Much of the land in the north of the parish was low-lying and waterlogged and needed draining to convert it into profitable arable land. Fulbourn Fen was a peat fen only 20 feet above sea level over which the Great Wilbraham River spread its waters in times of flood. The Act of Enclosure for Fulbourn was passed in 1806 and the Commissioners completed their work two years later. The drainage of the parish reduced the level of water in the upper reaches of the Great Wilbraham River on which the manorial watermill was situated. The loss of power brought to an end the life of a mill which had first been recorded in Domesday Book. In 1808 the machinery of the watermill was put up for sale. A new mill was therefore needed and the Enclosure Commissioners allotted one acre on Mill Hill, on which to build a mill and miller’s cottage, to John Chaplin, a considerable landowner and farmer. He used copies of Old Moore’s Almanack as a diary, entering personal events and business notes in the margins of the calendar. In 1808 he recorded against 11 July, ‘I laid the first brick of my mill’; 22 November, ‘Mill sails put up’; 15 December, ‘Began grinding’. It is a large octagonal smock mill with a brick base and wooden superstructure. Its outline is squat with a shallow conical cap. The fantail, as usual in Cambridgeshire mills, is close against the cap. The mill holds three stones, one of French burr and two of Derbyshire stone. With floors 24 feet in diameter, there is exceptional space for working the mill. (https://fulbournwindmill.org.uk/history.html)
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Great double-track circumventing Hauxton High St, incl. underpass of M1, leading all the way to Great Shelford
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A completely different kind of travelling station, although it probably had a different intention when it was established in the late 19th century. https://www.theorchardteagarden.co.uk
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Haslingfield is a charming, thriving village in South Cambridgeshire. It has two beautiful churches, a number of quaint properties, and a pleasant, serene village ambience. The village easily dates back to mediaeval times, and even Queen Elizabeth I stayed here back in 1564.
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Great off-road alternative to Hildersham Road to ride from the Roman Road to Balsham and continue onto the Frog End gravel road
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Frequently Asked Questions
How challenging are the gravel bike trails around Great Shelford?
The gravel biking routes around Great Shelford are generally suitable for a range of abilities. The region's landscape is relatively flat, with gentle gradients. Out of 30 available routes, 16 are rated as easy, 12 as moderate, and only 2 as difficult, making it accessible for most riders. For an easy ride, consider the DNA Path Rainbow Cycleway – Southern Busway Cycle Path loop from Cambridge.
Are there family-friendly gravel biking routes in the area?
Yes, Great Shelford offers several family-friendly gravel biking options, particularly those utilizing dedicated cycle paths. The relatively flat terrain and well-maintained surfaces make many routes suitable for families. The Grantchester Village – DNA Path Rainbow Cycleway loop from Cambridge is a good example, combining scenic village views with cycle paths.
Can I access the gravel trails around Great Shelford using public transport?
Many routes in the Great Shelford area are accessible via public transport, especially those starting from or near Cambridge. Cambridge has good rail and bus connections, and some routes, like the Cambridge Railway Station – Stapleford to Babraham Track loop from Cambridge, begin directly from the city, making them convenient for public transport users.
Where can I park when gravel biking in Great Shelford?
Parking availability varies depending on your chosen starting point. Many routes begin from villages or towns with public car parks, or from residential areas where on-street parking might be available. For routes starting further afield, such as the Roman Road (Cambridge) – The Roman Road Bridleway loop from Lime Kiln Close, look for designated parking areas near the trailheads or consider starting from a nearby village with facilities.
Are there circular gravel bike routes available?
Yes, the majority of gravel biking routes around Great Shelford are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. This is ideal for exploring the area without needing to arrange return transport. For instance, the A1301 Cycle Path – DNA Path Rainbow Cycleway loop from Cambridge offers a substantial circular ride.
What can I see along the gravel bike trails around Great Shelford?
The trails often pass through varied landscapes including historic Roman roads, agricultural fields, and along river valleys. You might encounter notable cycleways like the DNA Path Rainbow Cycleway and the Cambridge Guided Busway Cycle Path. While not directly on every trail, the wider Cambridge area also features iconic landmarks such as King's College Chapel and the Mathematical Bridge at Queens' College, which can be incorporated into longer rides or visited separately.
Are there cafes or pubs near the gravel routes for refreshments?
Yes, as the routes often pass through or near charming villages and towns in the Cambridgeshire countryside, you'll find opportunities for refreshments. Many villages have traditional pubs and local cafes where you can stop for a break, a meal, or a drink. It's advisable to check opening times, especially in smaller villages.
When is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Great Shelford?
Spring, summer, and early autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Great Shelford. The weather is milder, and the trails are typically drier. However, the relatively low elevation and well-draining surfaces mean that many routes are rideable year-round, weather permitting.
Are the gravel trails suitable for winter riding?
Many of the gravel trails around Great Shelford can be ridden in winter, especially those on firmer surfaces like dedicated cycle paths or well-established bridleways. However, be prepared for potentially muddy sections on unpaved agricultural tracks, and always check local weather conditions before heading out. Proper gear for cold and wet weather is recommended.
Can I bring my dog on the gravel trails?
Many public bridleways and cycle paths in the UK are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially around livestock or other trail users. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and consider local signage. It's good practice to keep dogs on a lead in agricultural areas or near roads. Remember to carry water for your dog and clean up after them.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about gravel biking in Great Shelford?
The gravel biking experience around Great Shelford is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 50 reviews. Riders often praise the network of historic Roman roads and dedicated cycle paths, which offer a diverse and engaging ride through the picturesque Cambridgeshire landscape. The accessibility and variety of routes for different skill levels are also frequently highlighted.
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