The best traffic-free bike rides around Leigh-On-Mendip

There are over 190 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around Leigh-On-Mendip. These routes cater to various skill levels, with a good mix of moderate and difficult options, alongside some easier rides for a more relaxed experience.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling in this area, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 240 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet, scenic routes that traverse the picturesque Mendip Hills, offering stunning views and a true escape from traffic. The variety of terrain, from paved paths to more challenging ascents, is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, while many routes are moderate to difficult, there are over 20 easier options available. The region's old railway lines, such as sections of the Colliers Way, often provide flatter, wider, and smoother surfaces, making them ideal for less confident riders or families. These paths are designed to be quiet and away from main roads.

The routes around Leigh-On-Mendip traverse the stunning Mendip Hills National Landscape, known for its diverse scenery. You'll encounter picturesque gorges, ancient woodlands, open grasslands, and valleys. Many routes offer expansive vistas across the Somerset Levels, and towards the Chew Valley and Yeo Valley lakes. The area is also characterized by its unique karst landscape with geological features like dry valleys and sinkholes.

Yes, many of the no traffic touring cycling routes around Leigh-On-Mendip are designed as loops. For example, the Mells Village – The Walled Garden at Mells loop offers a moderate 12.8 km ride, while the Radstock Pit Wheel – Bike It Radstock loop is a longer 29.9 km moderate option. These circular routes allow you to start and finish in the same location without retracing your path.

Several routes pass by interesting landmarks. You might cycle near the historic Nunney Castle, a picturesque medieval moated castle. The Colliers Way, a quiet cycling path, is an attraction in itself, following an old railway line. You could also spot the distinctive tower of the Grade I-listed Church of St Giles in Leigh-On-Mendip, a prominent feature in the landscape.

The Mendip Hills offer beautiful cycling conditions for much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with fewer crowds than peak summer. Summer is also excellent, though some routes might be busier. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy sections, especially in areas like Muddy Trail in Littleton Wood, and check weather conditions as the Mendip Plateau can be exposed.

While many touring routes are mostly paved, some, like the Gravel Road by the Lake – Singletrack Path to Road loop, incorporate gravel or singletrack sections. These can add an element of adventure and are often found in more secluded, traffic-free areas, offering a different cycling experience through woodlands and alongside natural features.

While Leigh-On-Mendip itself is a rural village, the wider Mendip Hills area has some public transport links. For routes that connect to larger towns like Radstock or Bath, you might find bus services that can transport you and your bike, though checking specific routes and bike carriage policies in advance is recommended. Many routes are accessible by car, with parking often available in nearby villages or designated trailheads.

Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, there are over 70 difficult routes. The Fifth Syren – Technical Ascent from Dinder loop, for instance, is a demanding 56.4 km ride with over 580 meters of elevation gain, offering significant ascents and rewarding views across the Mendip landscape.

Many routes pass through or near charming villages in the Mendip Hills, which often host traditional pubs and cafes. While specific establishments vary by route, you'll find opportunities to refuel and relax, particularly in places like Mells Village, which is featured in the Mells Village – The Walled Garden at Mells loop. It's always a good idea to check opening times, especially in smaller, more rural locations.