The best traffic-free bike rides around Lydney

There are 9 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Lydney featured in this guide. These routes offer a variety of distances and elevations, catering to different fitness levels.

The Forest of Dean and surrounding areas are beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and stunning scenery with changing foliage. Summer is also great, but routes can be busier. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially wet conditions, especially on shaded forest paths.

While this guide focuses on road cycling, the wider Lydney area, particularly within the Forest of Dean, is developing traffic-free greenways suitable for families. The Dean Forest Greenway, once fully completed, will offer easy gradients for all abilities. For routes listed here, many are moderate, but you can find options like the Roley Poley Trail – New Fancy Viewpoint loop from Lydney which offers a moderate challenge without heavy traffic.

You can expect a diverse range of terrain. Routes often combine quiet country lanes, dedicated greenways, and paths through ancient woodlands. While the focus is on 'no traffic,' some routes may include short sections on very quiet roads. The region features gentle slopes, but also more challenging climbs, especially as you venture towards the Wye Valley or deeper into the Forest of Dean.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Red Telephone Box – Flaxley Abbey Scenic Road loop from Lydney is a longer circular option, while the Roley Poley Trail – Red Telephone Box loop from Lydney offers a moderate circular ride.

The Lydney area is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You might encounter stunning views of the River Severn, or pass by historical points like the William Tyndale Monument. The Bigsweir Bridge – St Michael’s Church, Tintern loop from Lydney takes you close to the dramatic scenery of the Wye Valley, with opportunities to see the exquisite Tintern Abbey from viewpoints like Devil's Pulpit.

Yes, the Lydney area and the Forest of Dean are well-equipped with cycle-friendly cafes and pubs. Many routes will pass through or near villages where you can find places to refuel. For example, Taurus Crafts in Lydney is a popular spot, and there are various cafes within the Forest of Dean itself, such as near Mallards Pike Lake.

The longest route featured is the Ross-on-Wye Market House – River Wye loop from Lydney, covering approximately 106 kilometers with significant elevation gain, making it suitable for experienced cyclists seeking a challenging, traffic-free adventure.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet country lanes, the stunning natural beauty of the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, and the sense of escape offered by the traffic-free sections. The varied terrain and opportunities to discover hidden gems are also frequently highlighted.

Lydney has a train station, making it accessible by rail. While specific routes might require a short ride from the station, Lydney serves as a good starting point for exploring the surrounding no-traffic cycling options. Bus services also operate in the region, though checking their cycle carriage policies in advance is advisable.

Lydney offers various parking options, including public car parks in the town center. When venturing into the Forest of Dean, there are numerous car parks available at popular trailheads and visitor centers, many of which are well-placed to access quiet roads and greenways. Always check local signage for parking fees and restrictions.