The best traffic-free bike rides around Mendip

There are over 260 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in the Mendip Hills, catering to various skill levels. This includes approximately 86 easy routes, 158 moderate routes, and 18 more challenging options.

The Mendip Hills offer a diverse topography, from rolling hills to steep ascents and rewarding descents. You'll experience the unique karst landscape with limestone plateaus, dramatic gorges, and expansive views across the Somerset Levels. While many routes are well-paved, expect varied gradients that can provide a good challenge.

Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for families. One example is the Wells Cathedral – Long Drove loop from Glastonbury, which is an easy 28.48 km ride with gentle elevation changes, perfect for a relaxed outing.

The Mendip Hills are rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can cycle past the iconic Glastonbury Tor, enjoy views from Beacon Batch summit (the highest point in Mendip), or explore areas like the Somerset Levels Wetlands. Many routes also feature picturesque dry stone walls and offer panoramic vistas.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes in Mendip are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the moderate Wellow Brook Lane – Two Tunnels Greenway loop from Frome, which covers over 52 km and offers varied scenery.

The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic road cycling experience in Mendip, with an average score of over 4.6 stars from 251 ratings. Cyclists often praise the tranquility of the routes, the stunning panoramic views, and the challenging yet rewarding climbs that the Mendip Hills offer.

Absolutely. The Mendip Hills provide excellent vantage points for viewing the iconic Glastonbury Tor. A route like the View of Glastonbury Tor – Totney Drove loop from Street offers a moderate 55.9 km ride with opportunities to enjoy this famous landmark.

While specific no-traffic road cycling routes might not go directly through the most challenging parts of Cheddar Gorge due to traffic, the region is known for its dramatic gorges and valleys. You can find routes that offer views of these features or pass by historical sites. For instance, the area around Wells, which features Sweets Tea Rooms – Sweet's Tea Rooms & Museum loop from Wells, provides access to historical towns and scenic countryside.

The Mendip Hills offer great cycling opportunities throughout the year. Spring and autumn generally provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with fewer crowds than peak summer. Winter can be beautiful but exposed areas on the plateaus can be windy and cold. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, the Mendip Hills are known for their challenging ascents. While specific no-traffic routes might avoid the most extreme climbs like Draycott Steep, many routes feature significant elevation gains. For example, the Longleat House Drive – Longleat House loop from Frome is a moderate route with over 330 meters of elevation gain, providing a good workout amidst scenic surroundings.