The best road cycling routes around Taunton Deane

Taunton Deane offers a wide variety of road cycling routes, with over 570 options available. These routes cater to all skill levels, including 131 easy routes, 365 moderate routes, and 76 difficult routes, ensuring there's a suitable ride for every cyclist.

Yes, for easier rides, the region offers flatter terrain along the Somerset Levels and the Taunton-Bridgwater Canal. The canal towpaths, part of National Cycle Route 3, provide an easy riding surface. An example of an easy route is the North Curry Community Café – Café at Maunsel Lock loop from Creech St. Michael, which is 41.9 km long with minimal elevation gain.

For challenging rides, head to the Blackdown Hills and Exmoor National Park. Routes like The Taunton Flyer Dakota route — Blackdown Hills offer over 1,000 meters of elevation gain over 97.5 km. Even more demanding is the Dunkery Beacon & Wimbleball Lake loop from Taunton, which features over 1,500 meters of climbing across 98.9 km through Exmoor National Park.

Many routes pass by notable landmarks. The Wellington Monument & the Blackdown Hills loop from Taunton takes you past the historic Wellington Monument. You can also explore historical sites like the Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort or enjoy the natural beauty of Otterhead Lakes.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops starting from Taunton, allowing for convenient round trips. The Wellington Monument & the Blackdown Hills loop from Taunton is a popular moderate option, and the Wellington Monument & Barrington Court loop from Taunton offers another scenic circular ride.

The Blackdown Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offer picturesque routes with varying elevation. Cyclists can enjoy moderate to difficult rides with rewarding climbs and stunning views. Routes like the Taunton Flyer Spitfire route — Blackdown Hills provide a good challenge with over 800 meters of elevation gain.

Yes, some routes are designed to pass by popular cafes. For example, the Braziers Coffee Roasters – Whitepost Café loop from Taunton is a moderate 42.1 km route that includes a stop at Braziers Coffee Roasters. Another option is the North Curry Community Café – Old Brick Chimney and Plow loop from Taunton.

The road cycling routes in Taunton Deane are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an impressive average rating of 4.6 stars from over 280 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the varied terrain, from challenging hills to tranquil canal paths, and the beautiful natural scenery found throughout the region.

Yes, the Somerset Levels offer flatter, more leisurely road cycling experiences. The National Cycle Route 3, which connects Taunton to Bristol, passes through this bio-diverse area. You can enjoy cycling across grasslands and along waterways, observing varied flora and fauna.

One of the longest and most challenging routes from Taunton is the Dunkery Beacon & Wimbleball Lake loop from Taunton. This difficult route spans 98.9 km (61.4 miles) and takes approximately 5 hours 29 minutes to complete, venturing into Exmoor National Park.

Absolutely. The West Somerset heritage railway loop from Taunton is a moderate 79.5 km route that offers a blend of cycling and historical interest, allowing you to experience the region's heritage alongside its natural beauty.