The best traffic-free bike rides in Barrington Hill National Nature Reserve

While Barrington Hill National Nature Reserve itself is primarily for walking and nature observation, the surrounding area offers a few dedicated no-traffic gravel bike routes. Our guide features 3 such routes, all rated as moderate difficulty, providing excellent options for exploring the wider Somerset countryside.

The no-traffic gravel bike trails featured in this guide, such as the Staple Hill Trail – Forest Dirt Path loop and the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal loop, are generally rated as moderate. This means they are suitable for riders with some experience, offering a good balance of challenge and enjoyment without being overly technical.

Yes, all the no-traffic gravel bike routes in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Forest Dirt Path – Staple Hill Trail loop is a great option for a round trip, starting from Staple Hill Car Park.

The trails in the wider Barrington Hill area offer varied terrain, often including forest dirt paths and canal-side routes. You can expect moderate elevation changes, with routes like the Staple Hill Trail loop featuring over 430 meters of ascent, providing a good workout and scenic views.

The komoot community highly rates the routes in this area, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Riders often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the trails, the beautiful Somerset countryside, and the sense of escape offered by these routes.

While Barrington Hill National Nature Reserve itself is known for its rare species-rich grasslands and ancient hedgerows, the gravel routes nearby offer their own charm. You'll encounter pleasing views across the countryside and experience diverse natural settings, from wooded areas to tranquil canal paths. The NNR is particularly vibrant in spring with orchids.

Barrington Hill National Nature Reserve is primarily a walking reserve. For family-friendly gravel biking, it's best to consider the dedicated routes in the surrounding area that are designed for cycling. These routes, while moderate, can be adapted for families depending on their experience level, focusing on the less challenging sections or shorter distances.

Parking availability varies by route. For instance, the Forest Dirt Path – Staple Hill Trail loop conveniently starts from Staple Hill Car Park, making it easy to access. Always check the specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.

While direct public transport to the immediate trailheads might be limited, larger towns like Taunton, which is a starting point for routes such as the King's Cliff Woods – Bridgwater and Taunton Canal loop, are well-served by public transport. From there, you might need to cycle a short distance to reach the traffic-free sections.

The drier conditions, typically in spring and summer, are ideal for gravel biking in the Barrington Hill area, as paths are firmer underfoot. Spring also offers the added beauty of blooming wildflowers, including various orchids, in the nearby nature reserve. Autumn can also be pleasant with vibrant foliage, but be mindful of potentially muddier conditions after rain.

While the immediate vicinity of the nature reserve is very rural, you'll find cafes and pubs in nearby villages and towns such as Horton, Bickenhall, or Ilminster. It's a good idea to plan your route to pass through these locations if you're looking for a refreshment stop.

Policies for dogs can vary. While Barrington Hill National Nature Reserve welcomes dogs on leads for walking, specific rules for cycling routes outside the reserve may differ. Always check local signage or the route description on komoot for the most accurate information regarding dog access on individual trails.