The best cycling routes around Swindon

Swindon offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 200 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including approximately 120 easy routes, 70 moderate routes, and 20 more challenging options.

Touring cycling around Swindon features diverse landscapes. You can expect to ride through chalk grasslands, ancient woodlands, and along scenic canal paths, including sections of the Kennet & Avon Canal. Many routes also utilize disused railway lines, offering traffic-free sections. The region borders the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, providing routes with varied elevation, from flat valley roads to climbs with expansive views.

Yes, Swindon has many routes ideal for beginners and families. For instance, the paths around Coate Water Country Park offer flat, safe cycling. Another excellent option is the Bicycle Dismount Point – Brick Arch Bridge Path loop from Historic England, which is an easy 18.1 km ride. The Chiseldon and Marlborough Railway Path also provides a comfortable, mostly traffic-free experience through scenic areas.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, routes that venture into the North Wessex Downs offer significant climbs and rewarding views. A notable difficult route is the Avebury loop from Swindon train station, a 60.7 km trail that explores the downs and passes the historic Avebury Stone Circle. Another demanding option is The Ridgeway Trail – Double Helix Cycle Bridge loop from Lydiard Tregoze, covering 53.1 km with considerable elevation.

The touring cycling routes in Swindon are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 190 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the varied terrain, the blend of natural beauty and historical sites, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable experience.

Absolutely. Many touring cycling routes in Swindon are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Double Helix Cycle Bridge – Coate Water Country Park loop from BBC Wiltshire, a moderate 39.6 km ride, and the Old Siddington Locks Ruins – St Sampson's Church loop from Abbey Stadium, which is 43.2 km and takes you through historical sites and waterways.

Yes, Swindon is well-known for its routes along canal paths and disused railway lines. You can cycle along sections of the Kennet & Avon Canal Path, offering traffic-free links through picturesque landscapes. The Old Town Railway Path, part of NCN Route 45, and the Chiseldon and Marlborough Railway Path (part of Sustrans network Routes 45 and 482) are excellent examples of former railway lines converted into comfortable cycling routes.

Swindon's touring cycling routes often pass by significant natural and historical landmarks. You can explore sites like the Barbury Castle Iron Age Hill Fort, the scenic Coate Water Lake and Diving Platform, and the Liddington Castle Hillfort. Many routes also offer stunning views from points like The Ridgeway at Barbury Castle.

Several touring cycling routes in Swindon incorporate its beautiful country parks. For example, routes often include Lydiard Park, a 260-acre historic estate with accessible paths, and Coate Water Country Park, known for its large lake and nature reserve. You can also find routes near Mouldon Hill Country Park, which offers peaceful canal paths along the River Ray.

Yes, Swindon's central location and connectivity make it feasible to access many touring cycling routes via public transport. The Avebury loop from Swindon train station is a prime example, starting directly from a major transport hub. Many local bus services also connect to areas near popular cycling paths and country parks.

Absolutely. Swindon is on the doorstep of the North Wessex Downs AONB, and many touring cycling routes provide stunning views of this protected landscape. The Avebury loop from Swindon train station is a prime example, taking you directly into the downs. You'll encounter chalk grasslands and picturesque villages, with climbs that reward you with expansive vistas across the downs.

Yes, Swindon is well-integrated into the National Cycle Network (NCN). Routes 4, 45, 403, and 246 pass through or near the area. NCN Route 45, for instance, links Swindon to Salisbury and traverses the Cotswold Water Park, offering a journey through rolling hills and past ancient monuments like Avebury. The Old Town Railway Path is also part of NCN Route 45.