The best traffic-free bike rides around North Petherton

There are 11 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around North Petherton, offering a variety of experiences. Six of these routes are rated as easy, four as moderate, and one as difficult, catering to different skill levels.

The routes around North Petherton offer a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find many flat, tranquil paths along the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal and through the expansive Somerset Levels. For those seeking more challenge, some routes venture into the undulating Quantock Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, providing moderate elevation changes and panoramic views.

Yes, North Petherton is excellent for family cycling. The flat, traffic-free towpaths of the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal are particularly suitable. An easy option is the 12.8-mile Café at Maunsel Lock – The Bicycle Chain Bike Shop loop from Lyng, which follows the canal and is ideal for a relaxed family outing.

You can explore several interesting points. The distinctive Burrow Mump, with its ruined church, offers scenic views. Fyne Court, a National Trust property, features extensive grounds and woodlands. The Wills Neck Summit in the Quantock Hills provides stunning vistas. You might also encounter The Drove Trail, a scenic path within the Quantock Hills.

Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in North Petherton, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, the flat canal paths and Somerset Levels can be enjoyed year-round. During winter, some routes, especially those in the Levels, might be prone to flooding, making Burrow Mump appear as an island, so checking local conditions is advisable.

Many of the traffic-free routes, particularly those along the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal and through the Somerset Levels, are suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept on a lead where necessary. Always ensure your dog is comfortable with the distance and terrain, and carry enough water for both of you.

The Bridgwater and Taunton Canal is a good place to find amenities. The Café at Maunsel Lock is a popular stop directly on a route. Many villages along the routes, such as North Curry, also offer local pubs and cafes where you can refuel.

The routes vary in length to suit different preferences. For example, an easy loop like the Café at Maunsel Lock – The Bicycle Chain Bike Shop loop from Lyng is approximately 12.8 miles (20.7 km). Longer, moderate options, such as the Foxy Bean Café – Hawkridge Reservoir loop from North Petherton, can be around 22 miles (35.6 km).

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the traffic-free paths, the scenic beauty of the Somerset Levels and Quantock Hills, and the accessibility of routes suitable for various fitness levels. The presence of charming cafes and pubs along the way is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes around North Petherton are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the North Curry Village Square – Maunsel Lock loop from North Petherton and the Fyne Court – View from Roockcastle Road loop from North Petherton.

While specific parking information for each route is best checked on the individual tour pages, North Petherton and surrounding villages typically offer public parking facilities. For routes along the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal, parking is often available near popular access points or locks. Always look for designated parking areas to ensure a safe and convenient start to your ride.

North Petherton is served by local bus routes that connect to larger towns like Bridgwater and Taunton, which have train stations. While direct public transport access to every trailhead might be limited, it is often possible to reach the general area by bus and then cycle to a nearby route starting point. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.