4.5
(360)
6,186
riders
194
rides
Touring cycling around Nempnett Thrubwell offers routes through the varied landscapes of the Mendip Hills and Chew Valley. The area is characterized by its distinctive limestone ridges, dry valleys, and the expansive Chew Valley Lake. Cyclists can navigate a network of minor roads and dedicated paths, encountering both challenging inclines and low-lying pastureland. This region provides diverse terrain suitable for touring cyclists seeking scenic routes through rural Somerset.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.7
(41)
246
riders
48.1km
03:04
530m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
15
riders
28.9km
01:47
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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22
riders
55.1km
03:25
470m
470m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
22
riders
32.9km
02:13
490m
490m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
8
riders
34.0km
02:18
260m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The concrete outlet tower serves as the central control point for the reservoir's water supply. Connected by a bridge to the main dam, the tower houses sluice gates and valves that regulate the flow and distribution of water to the River Chew and the local water supply.
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Great stretch of road, I know I am nearly at Bristol, or just getting started. Either way I cannot help but stop and enjoy the view, just stunning.
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A great climb, pure type 2 fun. It's brutal and never-ending!
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Cutting across the bottom of the estate joining to the UWE campus from The Ashton. Pretty much all weather Gravel
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Typical Bristol views up to Clifton Wood on the hill
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There are over 200 touring cycling routes mapped around Nempnett Thrubwell on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, with approximately 57 easy, 101 moderate, and 42 difficult options.
The terrain around Nempnett Thrubwell is quite varied, ranging from the challenging inclines and limestone ridges of the Mendip Hills to the low-lying pastureland of the Chew Valley. You'll find a mix of quiet minor roads and dedicated paths, including gravel sections on routes like the Strawberry Line. Expect diverse landscapes, from open views to sheltered valleys.
Yes, the area offers options suitable for families. The Strawberry Line, for instance, is a traffic-free trail following a former railway line, providing an easygoing gravel path between Yatton and Cheddar. While not specifically listed as a family route, the Chew Valley Lake – Chew Valley Lake loop from Blagdon is a moderate route circling the lake, which can be enjoyable for those seeking flatter sections and scenic views.
Cyclists can enjoy a wealth of natural beauty and historical sites. The Mendip Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offer dramatic dry valleys and extensive views. You'll also encounter the significant Mendip Hills National Landscape and the scenic Chew Valley Lake. For those interested in history, the Fairy Toot, an ancient oval barrow, is located within Nempnett Thrubwell parish. Challenging routes might take you past iconic features like Cheddar Gorge Climb.
Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the Chew Valley Lake – Chew Valley Lake loop from Blagdon offers a moderate circular ride around the lake. Another option is the View of Chew Valley – Ashton Court Greenway loop from Ubley, which is a more difficult circular route providing extensive views.
The region is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through autumn. The diverse flora and fauna are particularly vibrant during these seasons. While winter cycling is possible, be mindful of weather conditions, especially on higher ground in the Mendip Hills, where conditions can be more challenging.
Absolutely. The Mendip Hills provide excellent opportunities for challenging climbs. Routes like the Cheddar Market Cross – Cheddar Gorge Climb loop from East End feature steep sections and notable hairpin bends, offering a thrilling experience with impressive views. The View of Chew Valley – Ashton Court Greenway loop from Ubley also includes significant elevation gain.
The touring cycling routes around Nempnett Thrubwell are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. More than 5,000 touring cyclists have explored the area using komoot, often praising the varied terrain, scenic views, and the peaceful environment of the rural roads.
Yes, a significant traffic-free option is The Strawberry Line. This trail follows a former railway line and offers a level, easygoing gravel path between Yatton and Cheddar, making it ideal for a relaxed ride away from road traffic. You can experience a section of it on the The Strawberry Line – Thatchers Cider Mill loop from Blagdon route.
The Mendip Hills are renowned for their extensive views. Black Down Hill, the highest point in the Mendip Hills, offers panoramic vistas over the Chew Valley and towards the Welsh coast. Many routes, such as the View of Chew Valley – Ashton Court Greenway loop from Ubley, are specifically designed to showcase these expansive landscapes.
Yes, some routes provide connections to urban fringes and other cycling paths. The Festival Way – Ashton Court Greenway loop from Bristol Airport, for example, leads through greenways and connects towards Bristol, offering a blend of rural and more developed landscapes. The Strawberry Line is also part of a larger vision to connect to other trails in the county.


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