The best traffic-free bike rides around Rowde

There are 5 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Rowde, catering to various skill levels. These routes are designed to offer peaceful rides through the picturesque Wiltshire countryside.

The routes offer a mix of terrain. You'll find gentle, mostly flat sections along the Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath, which is ideal for relaxed touring. Other routes, like the Caen Hill Locks – Avebury Stone Circle loop, include more challenging ascents and descents, particularly when venturing into the rolling chalk downlands.

Many routes incorporate significant local attractions. You can marvel at the impressive Caen Hill Locks, an 18th-century engineering marvel. Some routes also offer views of iconic hillside chalk figures like the Pewsey White Horse, or pass near the Cherhill White Horse. The historic Kennet and Avon Canal itself is a central feature, offering serene views.

Yes, the Caen Hill Locks – Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath loop from Rowde is rated as easy and is particularly suitable for families. It offers a gentle, mostly flat ride along the canal, providing a safe and enjoyable experience away from traffic.

Absolutely. All the no-traffic touring cycling routes listed for Rowde are circular, meaning you will start and finish in the same location. This makes planning your ride and return journey straightforward.

The rolling Wiltshire countryside is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer the most pleasant conditions with longer daylight hours and generally drier towpaths. Autumn also provides stunning scenery with changing foliage. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, especially for towpath sections which can be muddy after heavy rain.

Yes, several routes pass through charming villages or near facilities. For example, there's a café conveniently located near the Caen Hill Locks. You'll also find pubs and cafes in nearby Devizes and other villages along the Kennet and Avon Canal, providing opportunities for refreshments and breaks.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.57 stars from 181 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the canal towpaths, the impressive engineering of the Caen Hill Locks, and the scenic beauty of the Wiltshire countryside, especially the views of the White Horses.

Yes, the routes are designed for touring bikes. The Kennet and Avon Canal towpath sections are generally well-maintained, offering a suitable surface for touring. However, as with any towpath, conditions can vary, especially after rain, so be prepared for potentially uneven or muddy sections.

While Rowde itself is a village, nearby Devizes offers more public transport options, including bus services. Cyclists often start their tours from Devizes, which is well-connected and provides easier access to the canal towpaths and surrounding routes. Always check if your chosen public transport allows bikes.

Parking is available in nearby towns like Devizes, which serves as a popular starting point for many of these routes, especially those focusing on the Kennet and Avon Canal and the Caen Hill Locks. Look for public car parks in Devizes, often close to the canal access points.