The best cycling routes around Leigh-On-Mendip

There are over 300 touring cycling routes mapped around Leigh-On-Mendip on komoot, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.

Yes, Leigh-On-Mendip offers a good selection of easier routes. You can find around 47 touring cycling routes classified as easy, perfect for those new to cycling or looking for a more relaxed ride. These routes typically feature gentler gradients and less demanding terrain.

Route lengths vary significantly. You'll find shorter rides, such as the Fosseway Ford – Fairy Cave Climb loop from Leigh-on-Mendip which is about 17.4 miles (28 km), and much longer, more challenging tours like the Dundas Aqueduct – The Two Tunnels Greenway loop from Leigh-on-Mendip, stretching over 51 miles (82 km).

Many of the touring cycling routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the The Two Tunnels Greenway – Radstock Cycleway loop from Leigh-on-Mendip and the Dundas Aqueduct – Avoncliff Aqueduct loop from Leigh-on-Mendip.

The terrain around Leigh-On-Mendip is characterized by rolling hills and quiet country lanes, typical of the Somerset region. You'll encounter a mix of open countryside and dedicated cycle paths, such as sections of the Two Tunnels Greenway. Elevations vary, with some routes including significant climbs, offering diverse challenges.

The routes often pass through rural landscapes and local villages. You might encounter historical sites like Nunney Castle or the impressive Orchardleigh Estate Gatehouse. Some routes also incorporate scenic cycleways like the Colliers Way.

Absolutely. Leigh-On-Mendip offers 118 difficult touring cycling routes, designed for experienced riders seeking significant climbs and longer distances. These routes often feature substantial elevation gains, such as the Dundas Aqueduct – Avoncliff Aqueduct loop from Leigh-on-Mendip with over 650 meters of ascent.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 240 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic rural lanes, the varied terrain, and the inclusion of dedicated cycle paths like the Two Tunnels Greenway, which offers a unique riding experience.

While Leigh-On-Mendip itself is a smaller village, nearby towns like Frome and Radstock offer public transport links. You may need to plan your route carefully to connect with these services, as direct access to all trailheads via public transport might be limited. Checking local bus schedules is recommended.

Given the rural nature of the area and the presence of local villages, you can often find traditional pubs and cafes in settlements along or near the routes. These establishments typically welcome cyclists, offering a good spot to refuel and rest during your ride.

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most favorable weather conditions for touring cycling, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though weather can be more unpredictable. Always check the local forecast before heading out.

Yes, several routes incorporate sections of dedicated cycle paths. Notably, the Colliers Way and the Two Tunnels Greenway are prominent features, offering traffic-free sections for a more relaxed cycling experience. The Radstock Cycleway – Wellow Brook Lane loop from Leigh-on-Mendip is an example that uses cycleways.