The best traffic-free bike rides around Shepton Mallet

There are 14 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Shepton Mallet listed on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 7 moderate and 7 difficult options, ensuring a suitable ride for most touring cyclists.

The routes around Shepton Mallet traverse a diverse range of landscapes. You'll experience the rolling hills and woodlands of the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), quintessential English countryside, and potentially routes leading towards the low-lying Somerset Levels. The area is known for its picturesque scenery and varied terrain.

While the listed routes are primarily moderate to difficult, the region is actively developing traffic-free paths suitable for families. The Strawberry Line, for instance, is transforming a former railway line into an accessible path, with sections already open and linking to places like Collett Park in Shepton Mallet. These sections offer safer, traffic-free access for family rides.

Yes, many of the touring routes around Shepton Mallet are designed as loops. For example, the ambitious Somerset Circle, an 88-mile mostly traffic-free route, is being developed and incorporates sections like the Two Viaducts Route near Shepton Mallet, offering spectacular circular cycling opportunities.

Several routes pass by significant attractions. You could cycle to the historic Wells Cathedral, as featured in the Glastonbury High Street – Wells Cathedral loop. Other notable points of interest in the wider area include the dramatic Ebbor Gorge and sections of the Colliers Way cycle path.

The komoot community rates touring cycling in Shepton Mallet highly, with an average score of 3.8 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet rural lanes, the scenic beauty of the Mendip Hills, and the developing network of traffic-free paths that make for enjoyable rides.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, routes like the Honeypot Lane Singletrack – Gare Hill Forest Singletrack loop are classified as difficult, featuring significant elevation changes. This particular route includes nearly 1000 meters of ascent over its 64 km distance, offering a demanding experience.

Many routes are designed to pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes and pubs. For example, the Wells Cathedral – Sweets Tea Rooms loop specifically mentions a tea room, indicating opportunities for refreshments. Shepton Mallet itself and nearby towns like Wells offer various options for food and drink.

The longest route listed is the Vicars' Close – Sweets Tea Rooms loop, which covers approximately 94 kilometers. This difficult route offers an extensive touring experience through the Somerset countryside.

Shepton Mallet has bus connections to nearby towns and cities. While direct public transport access to the start of every specific route might vary, you can often reach Shepton Mallet by bus and then begin your cycling adventure from there. For detailed public transport information, it's best to check local bus schedules.

Many traffic-free paths, especially those converted from old railway lines like sections of the Strawberry Line, are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a lead. However, specific rules can vary, particularly in nature reserves or private land. Always check local signage or the specific route details for any restrictions regarding dogs.

The spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions in Somerset, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. During winter, some unpaved sections might become muddy, and daylight is limited, though many paved sections remain accessible year-round.