The best MTB trails around Cheddar Wood

There are over 45 mountain bike trails around Cheddar Wood, catering to various skill levels. This includes 13 easy routes, 29 moderate routes, and 3 more challenging options.

Yes, there are 13 easy mountain bike trails around Cheddar Wood. A great option is the Shute Shelve Tunnel – The Strawberry Line loop from Axbridge, which is 15.5 miles (24.9 km) and incorporates a unique disused railway tunnel. Another accessible choice is the Cheddar Gorge Climb – Cheddar Gorge loop from Cheddar, an easy 15.7 km route.

The terrain around Cheddar Wood is diverse, featuring limestone gorges, rolling hills, and dense woodlands. You'll encounter a mix of dirt, rock, and roots, with trails ranging from open moorland to technical singletrack. The area is within the Mendip Hills AONB, known for its dramatic natural features.

Yes, many routes are circular. For example, the Winscombe Drove – The Swan Inn loop from Axbridge is a moderate 17.7 miles (28.6 km) circular path. Another popular option is the The Swan Inn – Cheddar Gorge loop from Axbridge, a 24.2 miles (39.0 km) circular trail that takes you through the stunning Cheddar Gorge.

While the guide data shows 3 difficult routes, the region research highlights areas like Rowberrow Warren and specific trails like 'Pump Track,' 'The Chippy,' 'Christmas Trees,' and 'Yee Haw Warning!' which offer blue to black difficulty singletrack with downhill sections and technical climbs. The The Swan Inn – Cheddar Gorge loop from Axbridge, though moderate, includes sections through the Gorge that can be quite engaging.

You'll encounter several striking natural features. The trails often traverse the dramatic **Cheddar Gorge**, with its towering cliffs. The historic **Shute Shelve Tunnel**, a disused railway tunnel, is also a unique feature on some routes. Additionally, you might ride near the large **Cheddar Reservoir**, offering contrasting aquatic views amidst the hills and woodlands.

The mountain bike trails around Cheddar Wood are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 50 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, from limestone gorges and rolling hills to dense woodlands, and appreciate the options available for different skill levels.

While specific parking locations aren't detailed in the route data, the popularity of the area for outdoor activities suggests that parking is generally available in and around key access points like Cheddar village and Axbridge, which are common starting points for many routes.

The Mendip Hills, including Cheddar Wood, offer good mountain biking conditions for much of the year. However, spring and autumn often provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Be aware that conditions can become muddy during wetter periods, especially in woodland sections, so checking local weather is always advisable.

Given its location within the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the presence of Cheddar Gorge, many trails offer spectacular views. Routes that traverse the higher sections of the Gorge or open moorland, such as parts of the The Swan Inn – Cheddar Gorge loop from Axbridge, will provide breathtaking vistas over the landscape.

Yes, if you're looking for a shorter ride, the Rowberrow Warren loop from Shipham is an easy 8.1 km route that can be completed in under an hour. This is a great option for a quick spin through woodland.