The best road cycling routes around Shere

Road cycling around Shere is characterized by the rolling hills and ancient woodlands of the Surrey Hills National Landscape. You'll encounter a mix of challenging climbs, such as Leith Hill and Box Hill, and elevated routes offering impressive vistas, like those along the Greensand Ridge and North Downs Way. The area also features varied scenery through valleys like the Tillingbourne.

There are over 20 road cycling routes around Shere, catering to various skill levels. This includes 5 easy routes, 15 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for beginners and experienced cyclists alike.

Absolutely. The Shere area is renowned for its challenging climbs. Notable ascents include Box Hill Climb, famous for its 'Zig Zag Road' from the 2012 Olympic cycling races, and Leith Hill, the highest point in southeast England. You can experience the Leith Hill climb on the Leith Hill Trench Road – Leith Hill Climb loop from Gomshall route.

The Surrey Hills offer numerous stunning viewpoints. On a clear day, from the top of Leith Hill Tower and Viewpoint, you can see as far as the English Channel and even Big Ben. Other notable spots include Holmbury Hill Viewpoint and View from Newlands Corner, both offering expansive panoramic scenes.

While many routes in Shere feature rolling hills, there are 5 routes classified as easy, which could be suitable for families or those seeking a more relaxed ride. These routes generally have less elevation gain, allowing for a more comfortable experience through the picturesque countryside.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 13 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from challenging climbs to scenic winding roads, and the beautiful backdrop of the Surrey Hills National Landscape. The charming rural villages and extensive cycling network are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, many routes weave through the region's picturesque villages. For example, the Shere Village Centre – Thorncombe Street Lane loop from Gomshall takes you through charming rural settlements, allowing you to experience the local character of the area.

Route lengths vary significantly. For instance, a moderate route like the Box Hill Climb – View from Box Hill loop from Gomshall is about 28.9 miles (46.5 km) and typically takes around 2 hours 16 minutes. Longer routes, such as the Thorncombe Street Lane – Featherlake Village Stores loop from Gomshall, can be up to 66 km and take over 3 hours.

Yes, the region is well-equipped with cycle-friendly amenities. You'll find numerous cafes and pubs conveniently located along popular cycling routes, providing excellent opportunities for breaks and refreshments. For example, the Raikes Lane Climb – Heartwork Coffee Bar loop from Gomshall specifically includes a coffee bar stop.

The Surrey Hills National Landscape offers beautiful cycling conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and stunning scenery with changing foliage. Summer is also popular, though routes can be busier. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially wet conditions on the roads.

Yes, you can incorporate historical sites into your rides. For instance, Guildford Castle Grounds and the ruins of Betchworth Castle are within cycling distance and offer interesting points to explore off the bike.

Shere itself is a village, and while specific public transport links directly to trailheads might vary, the broader Surrey Hills area is generally accessible. Cyclists often travel to nearby towns with train stations, such as Gomshall (which is the starting point for many listed routes), and then cycle to the routes. It's advisable to check local train and bus services for bike carriage policies.