The best traffic-free bike rides in Blackdown Hills Aonb

There are over 60 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in the Blackdown Hills AONB, offering a wide range of experiences from moderate to challenging rides. These routes are designed to keep you away from heavy traffic, utilizing the region's quiet country lanes and scenic paths.

The Blackdown Hills AONB is characterized by rolling hills, steep valleys, and open plateaus. You'll encounter a mix of climbs and descents, providing a good workout alongside rewarding views. The routes often traverse ancient woodlands, heathland, and picturesque rural landscapes, ensuring a varied and engaging ride.

Yes, while many routes offer a challenge, there are 4 routes specifically rated as easy. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and shorter distances, making them ideal for those new to touring cycling or looking for a more relaxed ride. The region's quiet country lanes are generally suitable for all skill levels, allowing you to enjoy the scenery at your own pace.

The Blackdown Hills AONB is rich in historical and natural features. You can cycle past the iconic Wellington Monument, explore the ancient Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort, or visit St Mary's Church and Hemyock Castle. Many routes also offer stunning viewpoints like Culmstock Beacon Viewpoint and the serene Otterhead Lakes.

For those seeking a longer challenge, routes like the Castle Neroche Woods – Forest Dirt Path loop from Blackdown Hills National Landscape offer substantial distances, exceeding 100 km. These routes provide extensive exploration of the AONB's diverse landscapes, ensuring a full day of cycling away from traffic.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring routes in the Blackdown Hills AONB are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the challenging Hemlock and Broadhembury loop or the scenic Stockland and Churchinford loop, both designed for a continuous journey through the picturesque countryside.

The Blackdown Hills AONB is beautiful year-round, but late spring to early autumn (May to October) generally offers the most pleasant cycling conditions with milder weather and longer daylight hours. During late summer, the heathland areas like Blackdown and Sampford Commons are particularly stunning when the heather is in bloom.

While specific 'family-friendly' routes are not explicitly categorized, the abundance of quiet country lanes throughout the Blackdown Hills AONB makes many sections suitable for families. Look for shorter, easier routes with less elevation gain, and always consider the fitness levels of all family members. The serene environment away from heavy traffic is a major plus for family outings.

Many routes in the Blackdown Hills AONB start or pass near villages and designated car parks. For example, the Middlewood Climb – Forest Dirt Path loop starts from Staple Hill Car Park. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking availability.

The Blackdown Hills AONB is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the quiet country lanes, the stunning panoramic views across Somerset and Devon, and the diverse natural beauty, including ancient woodlands and picturesque valleys. The absence of heavy traffic is consistently highlighted as a key benefit.

Yes, many of the touring routes pass through or near charming villages within the Blackdown Hills AONB. These villages often have local pubs, cafes, or shops where you can refuel and refresh. It's a good idea to check the route map in advance to identify suitable stops for food and drink.

Absolutely. The Blackdown Hills AONB is dotted with historical features that are easily accessible by bike. Routes often lead past impressive Iron Age hill forts like Castle Neroche, medieval ruins such as Hemyock Castle, and the iconic Wellington Monument. Cycling provides an excellent way to immerse yourself in the region's rich history while enjoying the landscape.