The best traffic-free bike rides around Mendip

Komoot offers over 50 traffic-free gravel bike routes in the Mendip region. These routes vary in difficulty, ensuring there's something for every skill level, from easy rides to more challenging adventures.

The Mendip region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Riders frequently praise the stunning limestone landscapes, dramatic gorges, and the extensive network of quiet trails that allow for peaceful exploration away from traffic. The diverse terrain, from open plateaus to ancient woodlands, is also a common highlight.

Yes, the Mendips offer several easy, traffic-free options perfect for families. The Strawberry Line, a disused railway line, is particularly well-suited for a relaxed ride. For a route that includes a unique feature, consider the Shute Shelve Tunnel – Strawberry Line Tunnel loop from Cheddar, which is rated as moderate but has accessible sections.

The Mendip Hills are rich in natural beauty. You can encounter dramatic gorges like Ebbor Gorge, impressive viewpoints such as Beacon Batch summit trig point, and unique karst features. Many routes also pass through ancient woodlands and offer panoramic views across Somerset.

Absolutely. For those seeking a more demanding ride away from the crowds, the Mendips provide routes with significant elevation changes and varied terrain. The Honeypot Lane Singletrack – Wylye Valley Quiet Road loop from Frome is a difficult route covering over 70 km with substantial climbing, offering a true challenge. Another option is the Imber Range Path – View from Westbury White Horse loop from Bradford-on-Avon, also rated difficult.

Yes, many of the traffic-free gravel routes in Mendip are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Mendip Hills Scenic Descents – Middle Down Drove Bridleway loop from Cheddar offers a moderate circular ride with scenic descents. The Sweets Tea Rooms – Somerset Levels Wetlands loop from Meare is a longer, difficult circular option exploring the wetlands.

Spring and autumn generally offer the best conditions for quiet gravel biking in Mendip. The weather is often mild, and the trails are less crowded than during peak summer. The changing foliage in autumn provides particularly scenic rides. Winter can also be quiet, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions and shorter daylight hours.

Yes, the Mendip Hills region has numerous villages and towns with cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. Many routes are designed to pass through or near these amenities, allowing for convenient refreshment stops. For instance, the Sweets Tea Rooms – Somerset Levels Wetlands loop from Meare explicitly mentions a tea room in its name, indicating a good spot for a break.

Public transport access to the Mendip Hills is available, though it can be more limited than in urban areas. Some bus services connect key towns and villages, which may provide access points to the trail network. It's advisable to check local bus timetables and routes in advance, especially if you plan to bring your bike.

Generally, no specific permits are required for gravel biking on public bridleways and byways within the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). However, always respect private land and adhere to any signage indicating restrictions or private access. Stick to designated paths to protect the natural environment.

While riding directly through Cheddar Gorge can be busy, many gravel routes in the surrounding area offer stunning views of the gorge from above or pass nearby. The Mendip Hills Scenic Descents – Middle Down Drove Bridleway loop from Cheddar starts from Cheddar, providing excellent access to the local landscape and potential viewpoints.