The best road cycling routes around Pitcombe

Road cycling around Pitcombe offers a diverse landscape. You'll encounter rolling hills, quiet river valleys, and expansive woodlands. The broader area includes challenging ascents towards the Mendip Hills to the north and more gentle, flatter sections across the Somerset Levels to the south, providing varied terrain for all abilities.

There are over 280 road cycling routes available around Pitcombe, catering to various skill levels. This includes 64 easy routes, 211 moderate routes, and 12 more challenging options.

Yes, Pitcombe offers several routes suitable for families looking for a more relaxed ride. Many of the 64 easy routes provide gentle terrain through picturesque countryside, ideal for a family outing. For example, the All Saints Church, Castle Cary – Chapel Cross Tea Room loop from Castle Cary is a moderate 21.7-mile route that leads through local villages and countryside, often completed in under two hours.

Many routes offer scenic views and pass by notable landmarks. For instance, the Alfred's Tower Climb – Stourhead House loop from Bruton takes you past the impressive Alfred's Tower Climb and the beautiful Stourhead House and Gardens. Other routes might offer glimpses of the Stourhead Gardens and Lake or the Stourhead Gardens and Palladian Bridge.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Pitcombe are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Longleat House Drive – Longleat House loop from Bruton and the Longleat House Drive – Shearwater Lake loop from Bruton, both offering moderate challenges and scenic views.

The road cycling routes in Pitcombe are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 60 reviews. More than 2,300 road cyclists have explored the area, often praising the varied terrain, quiet lanes, and picturesque Somerset countryside.

Yes, Pitcombe offers several longer routes for those seeking extended rides. The Longleat House Drive – Longleat House loop from Bruton is nearly 35 miles (56 km) long, and the Longleat House Drive – Shearwater Lake loop from Bruton covers about 33 miles (53.5 km), both providing substantial distances with moderate elevation gains.

The nearby town of Bruton is an excellent hub for amenities. It's known for its independent shops and excellent restaurants, such as At The Chapel and the Roth Bar & Grill. These establishments, along with various pubs and cafes in the surrounding villages, often welcome cyclists and provide a good spot to refuel or relax after a ride.

The Somerset countryside around Pitcombe is beautiful throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with fewer crowds. Summer provides longer daylight hours, though routes can be busier. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially wet conditions on the roads.

While many routes are moderate, the region's proximity to the Mendip Hills means there are options for more challenging rides. The area features rolling hills and notable elevation gains, with 12 routes specifically graded as difficult. For example, the Bell's Lane – Gare Hill loop from Bruton includes significant climbs over its 45 km distance.

Yes, some routes provide picturesque views of water features. The Longleat House Drive – Shearwater Lake loop from Bruton specifically features views of Shearwater Lake. Additionally, the broader area includes attractions like the Stourhead Gardens and Lake, which can be incorporated into rides.