The best cycling routes around Crowcombe

There are over 130 touring cycling routes available around Crowcombe, offering a wide variety of experiences within the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and surrounding areas.

Crowcombe offers diverse terrain, from deep wooded valleys known as 'combes' to expansive open heathland. You'll encounter altitudes ranging from 2 to 378 meters within the Quantock Hills, with additional terrain provided by the Brendon Hills to the west. This includes steep slopes, challenging climbs, and scenic paths.

The routes around Crowcombe cater to various skill levels. You'll find approximately 20 easy routes, 65 moderate routes, and 53 difficult routes, ensuring options for both casual riders and those seeking a significant physical challenge.

Yes, for experienced cyclists, the **Crowcombe Hill Climb** (also known as Crowcombe Combe) is a notable challenge. This 1.3-kilometer ascent features a significant elevation gain of 187 to 197 meters with an average gradient between 14.8% and 15.5%, and punishing sections reaching up to 25%.

Yes, many routes around Crowcombe are designed as loops. For example, the Merridge Hill Viewpoint – View from Lydeard Hill loop from Bicknoller is a popular 27.4 km circular route, and the Bicknoller Post – Black Hill Trig Point loop from Quantock Hills National Landscape offers a 17.4 km loop through heathland and woods.

You can discover several natural features and viewpoints. Highlights include Beacon Hill Trig Point, Bicknoller Post, and Lydeard Hill Viewpoint, all offering breathtaking views across Somerset and sometimes even to the Welsh coast. Roebuck Meadows, a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest, also adds to the natural diversity.

Beyond the natural beauty, the region holds cultural and historical significance. The Quantock Hills inspired Romantic poets like Samuel Taylor Coleridge and William Wordsworth. The village of Crowcombe itself features historical landmarks such as the 14th-century Church of the Holy Ghost and the magnificent Crowcombe Court, dating back to the 18th century.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 34 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, challenging climbs, and the extensive network of trails that cater to various preferences, from smooth roads to technical bridleways.

While Crowcombe is known for its challenging terrain, there are also gentle routes available through scenic villages and countryside, particularly for those looking for less strenuous rides. Look for routes categorized as 'easy' in the komoot guide for suitable options.

Crowcombe's proximity to Exmoor National Park enhances its appeal for long-distance touring. Exmoor offers a diverse range of routes, including sections of the Coleridge Way Cycle Route, which traverses hills and valleys, providing stunning views and challenging terrain for experienced riders looking for extended journeys.

While specific routes directly through Roebuck Meadows may be limited due to its SSSI status, many routes in the Quantock Hills will bring you close to areas of similar natural diversity. The region is characterized by varied and herb-rich vegetation, offering a rich natural experience.

The Quantock Hills offer cycling opportunities year-round. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer is ideal for longer days. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, especially on unpaved trails.