The best cycling routes around South Somerset
4.7
(328)
3,548
riders
562
rides
Touring cycling around South Somerset offers diverse landscapes characterized by rolling hills, lush green fields, and meandering rivers. The region includes the flat terrain of the Somerset Levels, suitable for leisurely rides, and the more varied topography of the Blackdown Hills and Quantock Hills, which present gentle slopes to challenging climbs. This area provides a network of routes that traverse both tranquil countryside and areas of natural beauty.
Best touring cycling routes around South Somerset
- The most popular touring cycling…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
3.0
(2)
8
riders
69.5km
04:30
780m
780m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
71.3km
04:58
1,010m
1,010m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
3
riders
49.5km
03:16
560m
560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(19)
95
riders
21.5km
01:23
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(13)
90
riders
16.2km
01:02
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
31
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(10)
53
riders
17.1km
01:05
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
55
riders
19.6km
01:46
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
34
riders
52.0km
03:06
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
46
riders
23.3km
01:27
220m
220m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Donyatt Halt Records for Donyatt Halt state: "This halt, opened on May 5th, 1928, has a single platform edged with wooden sleepers, and a small wooden shelter. A pathway leads up from the platform to the road, which crosses the line by an overbridge at the Ilminster end of the platform. An ornate oil lamp stands at the top of the path and there are various posts with brackets for hanging oil lamps in winter." It would be the guard's duty to light and extinguish these lamps. Five trains a day operated in each direction taking about 45 minutes for the 15 - mile journey from Taunton to Chard, having made stops at Thornfalcon, Hatch, Ilton, Ilminster and Donyatt. Donyatt.com
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Muchelney Abbey is a fabulous stop over!
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The pub is no longer open but there is also a Post Office /Village shop in the centre.
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This picturesque moated medieval castle was built in the 1370s by Sir John de la Mare. It's heavily influenced by French design and features a compact layout with four round corner towers and thick defensice walls.
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The vanquishing of a royalist army in the south-west by the New Model Army further reduced the King's military capabilities and hastened his ultimate defeat. The New Model Army approached the small town of Langport from the east. It was a key bridging point where the major road from Somerton passed between two large areas of wet moorland. This was a logical place for the royalists to make a stand, or at least to try to hold up the parliamentarians in order to enable retreat, via Sedgemoor, to the port of Brridgewater. Goring sent his baggage and artillery ahead towards the port, keeping only two pieces of ordnance with the army. He then turned and marched out to the east of Langport, to face the parliamentarian army. Though he held a strong position, on high ground controlling the roads that approached the town from the east, his forces were still outnumbered and outgunned and were soon defeated. Although the royalist army was not destroyed at Langport, the defeat was to have a significant effect upon troop morale. As Goring admitted: 'the consequences of this blow is very much for there is so great terror and dejection amongst our men that I am confident at this present they could not be brought to fight against half their number’. Bridgwater fell soon after, isolating the remaining royalist garrisons in the West Country. Three alternative locations have been suggested for the battle along the Wagg Rhyne. Archaeological research by the Battlefields Trust in 2021 and 2023 indicates that the location of the battle is that registered by Historic England on either side of the B3153. The reports of these metal detecting surveys are available for download in the File Download section on the left of this webpage. Most of the landscape here is still agricultural but there has been some development, especially on the southern site, while there is continuing small scale erosion of the battlefield by small scale development right across this landscape. There is no on site interpretation or monument at the registered battlefield site, though an information board is located at Huish Episcopi on the A372. The Wagg Drove is a quiet narrow lane with verges running a little to the side of the Rhyne, giving public access across part of the battlefield. Furpits Lane, where there is some limited parking and public footpaths south east of Hamdown House and the Wagg Rhyne also enable the battlefield to be explored. The B3153 is a very busy, fast road with no verges. Although it is possible approach the point where the road crosses the Rhyne by walking along the Wagg Drove, it is not recommended to attempt to walk along the main road itself. A leaflet describing a battlefield walk at Langport can be downloaded from the panel on the left. https://www.battlefieldstrust.com/resource-centre/battleview.asp?BattleFieldId=20
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when touring cycling in South Somerset?
South Somerset offers a diverse landscape for touring cyclists. You'll find everything from the flat, tranquil country lanes of the Somerset Levels to the rolling hills and more challenging climbs in areas like the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Quantock Hills. The region is characterized by lush green fields and meandering rivers, providing varied experiences for all abilities.
Are there touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in South Somerset?
Yes, South Somerset has routes ideal for beginners. The flatter sections of the Somerset Levels offer tranquil, hedge-lined country lanes perfect for leisurely rides. For example, the Chard Reservoir Nature Reserve – Donyatt Halt loop from Chard is an easy 21.8 km route, and the Donyatt Halt – Stone Railway Bridge loop from Ilminster is another easy option at 16.2 km.
What are some more challenging touring cycling routes in the region?
For those seeking a challenge, South Somerset offers routes with significant elevation. The Over the Blackdown Hills loop from Chard is a difficult 71.3 km path with over 1000 meters of ascent, traversing the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and offering extensive views. The South Somerset Cycleway, at 69.5 km, also presents a difficult challenge with nearly 800 meters of climbing.
How many touring cycling routes are available in South Somerset?
There are over 580 touring cycling routes available in South Somerset on komoot, catering to various skill levels. This includes more than 100 easy routes, over 360 moderate routes, and more than 110 difficult routes, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.
What natural features can I see along touring cycling routes in South Somerset?
Many routes in South Somerset pass through beautiful natural areas. You can explore the tranquil Somerset Levels, visit Ham Hill Country Park with its panoramic views, or cycle through the scenic Blackdown Hills AONB. The Chard Reservoir Nature Reserve – Donyatt Halt loop from Chard, for instance, takes you past the significant birdwatching site of Chard Reservoir Nature Reserve.
Are there historical sites or notable landmarks to visit while cycling in South Somerset?
Yes, touring cycling routes often weave through picturesque towns and past historical sites. You might encounter the Iron Age hillfort at Ham Hill, or pass by grand estates like Montacute House and Barrington Court, both managed by the National Trust. The Longleat & Stourhead loop from Bruton takes you through areas with rich history and picturesque villages.
When is the best time of year to go touring cycling in South Somerset?
The best time for touring cycling in South Somerset is generally between spring (April-June) when wildflowers bloom, and autumn (September-November) when the foliage provides vibrant colors. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery for exploring the region's diverse landscapes.
Are there circular touring cycling routes available in South Somerset?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in South Somerset are circular, making them convenient for day trips. The prominent South Somerset Cycleway is an 80-mile circular route showcasing the region's countryside and rural villages. Other examples include the Chard Reservoir Nature Reserve – Chard Reservoir loop from Seavington St Michael and the North Curry Village Square – Somerset Levels loop from Martock.
What do other cyclists say about touring in South Somerset?
The touring cycling routes in South Somerset are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 300 reviews. More than 3,600 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the tranquil country lanes, scenic views, and the network of well-maintained routes.
Can I find routes that pass by waterfalls in South Somerset?
While South Somerset is known for its rolling hills and rivers, Yeovil Country Park, which encompasses woodlands and follows the River Yeo, is noted for its waterfalls. While specific touring cycling routes directly passing waterfalls might be less common, you can explore routes in the vicinity of Yeovil to incorporate this natural feature into your ride.
Are there options for parking when accessing touring cycling routes?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in South Somerset are accessible with parking options. Towns and villages along popular routes often provide public parking. For example, routes starting from Chard, Ilminster, Bruton, or Langport typically have parking facilities nearby, allowing you to easily begin your cycling adventure.
Can I access touring cycling routes in South Somerset using public transport?
South Somerset is accessible via public transport, making it possible to reach various starting points for cycling routes. Rail connections are available at towns like Yeovil Junction, Sherborne, and Castle Cary. From these points, you can often connect to local bus services or cycle directly onto nearby routes, such as sections of the South Somerset Cycleway.
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