The best traffic-free bike rides around Glastonbury

There are over 20 no-traffic road cycling routes around Glastonbury, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels. You'll find options ranging from easy, flat rides through the Levels to more challenging routes with some elevation.

Yes, Glastonbury offers several easy, no-traffic road cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. The flat terrain of the Somerset Levels and Avalon Marshes provides ideal conditions for leisurely rides. An example is the Sweets Tea Rooms – The Sheppey loop from Glastonbury, which is an easy 33.5 km route with minimal elevation.

The no-traffic road cycling routes around Glastonbury offer diverse terrain. You'll find extensive flat, quiet lanes and droves through the Somerset Levels and Avalon Marshes, ideal for smooth riding. Some routes may include gentle inclines, especially those venturing towards the edges of the Mendip Hills, but the focus for 'no-traffic' routes is generally on flatter, more accessible paths.

Many no-traffic road cycling routes in Glastonbury pass by significant natural features and landmarks. You can explore the rich wetland environments of the Avalon Marshes, including nature reserves like Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve and Ham Wall Nature Reserve. While not directly on a cycling path, the iconic Glastonbury Tor often provides a dramatic backdrop to rides in the area. The Wells Cathedral is also a notable landmark accessible on some routes, such as the Wells Cathedral – Long Drove loop from Glastonbury.

Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes around Glastonbury are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the View of Glastonbury Tor – Glastonbury High Street loop from Glastonbury is an easy 37.3 km circular route that offers scenic views.

The best time for no-traffic road cycling in Glastonbury is generally from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically milder and drier, making for more pleasant riding conditions. The Somerset Levels are particularly beautiful in spring with blooming wildflowers and in autumn with changing foliage. Winter can be wet and muddy in some areas, though many road surfaces remain rideable.

Parking is available in and around Glastonbury town centre, often near the start points of many routes. For routes venturing into the Avalon Marshes, dedicated car parks are usually provided at nature reserves like Shapwick Heath and Ham Wall, offering convenient access to traffic-free paths.

Glastonbury is served by local bus services connecting it to nearby towns like Wells and Street, which can be useful for reaching the area. While direct access to specific route start points by public transport might vary, the town itself is a hub, and many routes begin close to the town centre. Consider checking local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information on accessibility.

Yes, many routes are designed to pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes and pubs. Glastonbury itself has numerous options, and routes like the Glastonbury High Street – Glastonbury Tor loop from Glastonbury start and end in the town, providing easy access to refreshments. The region's network of cycle paths often connects to local amenities, allowing for convenient stops.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the quiet lanes through the Somerset Levels, the stunning panoramic views from points like Glastonbury Tor, and the abundance of wildlife in the nature reserves. The variety of routes, from flat and easy to moderately challenging, is also frequently highlighted as a major draw.

Yes, some no-traffic routes provide excellent views of the Mendip Hills, particularly those on the northern edge of the Glastonbury area. The View of Glastonbury Tor – View of the Mendip Hills loop from Glastonbury is a moderate 57.4 km route specifically designed to offer vistas of both the iconic Tor and the rolling Mendip landscape.