The best cycling routes in Wiltshire

There are over 1,700 touring cycling routes available in Wiltshire on komoot, catering to a wide range of preferences and skill levels.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from chalk hills to quiet country lanes, and the rich historical attractions found along the routes.

Yes, Wiltshire offers over 460 easy touring cycling routes. The Bradford on Avon, Bath and the Two Tunnels Greenway is a popular choice, following the Kennet & Avon Canal with traffic-free sections. Canal paths and disused railway lines, like the Swindon to Marlborough Railway Path, also provide gentle, family-friendly options.

For those seeking a challenge, Wiltshire has over 330 difficult touring cycling routes. The West Wiltshire Downs loop from Salisbury, covering nearly 80 km with significant elevation, offers a demanding ride through rolling terrain. Another option is the Longleat and Stourhead loop from Warminster, which features challenging climbs and descents.

Many touring cycling routes in Wiltshire are designed as loops. For example, the Salisbury and Amesbury loop connects historic towns in a moderate circular path. The Cotswold towns and villages loop from Corsham also provides a scenic circular journey through the Cotswolds.

Wiltshire's routes often pass through stunning natural landscapes. You can encounter impressive chalk white horses carved into hillsides, such as the Cherhill White Horse. The region also features significant portions of National Landscapes like Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs and the North Wessex Downs, offering views of ancient woodlands and chalk rivers. You can also visit highlights like Win Green Summit for panoramic views.

Absolutely. Wiltshire is rich in history. Many routes incorporate iconic landmarks such as Stonehenge and the Avebury Stone Circle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You can also cycle past the dramatic Caen Hill Locks on the Kennet & Avon Canal, or explore areas near Lacock, known for its medieval charm.

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in Wiltshire, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, the diverse landscapes, including ancient woodlands and canal paths, can be enjoyed in autumn with vibrant foliage, and even in winter, though some routes may be muddier.

Yes, the Kennet & Avon Canal is a prominent feature for touring cyclists in Wiltshire, offering largely traffic-free sections. The Bradford on Avon, Bath and the Two Tunnels Greenway route directly utilizes parts of the canal, providing a scenic and relatively flat ride.

Yes, parts of the Cotswolds National Landscape extend into Wiltshire, offering beautiful cycling opportunities through honey-coloured stone villages and green meadows. The Cotswold towns and villages loop from Corsham is an excellent example of a route that takes you through this picturesque area.

Yes, the Avebury and Savernake loop from Marlborough is a route that takes you through the ancient woodlands of Savernake Forest, offering a unique cycling experience among towering trees and open downland.

Wiltshire is home to the Wiltshire Cycleway, a 160-mile (or 192-mile) circular route that traverses the county's countryside and historic towns. While not a single komoot tour in this guide, sections of it are incorporated into various routes, such as the Wiltshire Cycleway Loop from Malmesbury, allowing you to experience parts of this extensive network.