The best cycling routes in Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 2,200 options available on komoot. These routes cater to all skill levels, including over 600 easy, 1,000 moderate, and nearly 600 difficult tours.

The touring cycling routes in Gloucestershire are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 1,490 reviews. More than 28,900 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the region's diverse terrain, often praising the scenic beauty of the Cotswolds and the well-maintained trails of the Forest of Dean.

Yes, Gloucestershire has many routes ideal for beginners and families. The View of Cannop Ponds – Colliers Trail, Forest of Dean loop from West Dean is a family-friendly, off-road path through stunning woodland. The Wye Valley Greenway, a 5-mile traffic-free route, also offers a flat ride with river views, perfect for a relaxed outing.

For those seeking a challenge, the Cotswolds region provides routes with significant climbs and descents. Consider the Cotswold Commons & Slad Valley loop from Stroud, which features over 600 meters of elevation gain, or the extensive Cotswolds towns & villages loop from Moreton-in-Marsh, covering over 80 kilometers with more than 800 meters of climbing.

Many touring cycling routes in Gloucestershire are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Forest of Dean loop from Coleford, the Around Bredon Hill from Tewkesbury, and the Newent & Hartpury loop from Gloucester.

Gloucestershire's routes offer numerous scenic viewpoints. Cleeve Hill, the highest point in the Cotswolds, provides breathtaking panoramic views. Other notable spots include Haresfield Beacon and View from Dover's Hill. The Forest of Dean also has many elevated spots offering views over the ancient woodlands and the River Wye.

Yes, Gloucestershire is rich in history. Along your rides, you can encounter charming Cotswold villages, historic sites like Gloucester Docks, and impressive structures such as Sudeley Castle and Berkeley Castle. The Mercian Way route, for example, passes through areas with historical significance.

Many touring cycling routes in Gloucestershire pass through villages and towns with traditional pubs. The Cotswolds, in particular, are known for their picturesque villages where you can often find welcoming establishments for a refreshment stop. While specific routes aren't tagged for pub stops, planning your ride through areas like Moreton-in-Marsh or Cirencester will likely offer opportunities.

Many towns and cities in Gloucestershire, such as Gloucester, Cheltenham, and Tewkesbury, are well-served by public transport, including train and bus services. You can often start routes like the Cheltenham & the western Cotswolds loop from Gloucester directly from public transport hubs. It's advisable to check local transport provider policies regarding bicycles.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Gloucestershire, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, especially in the Cotswolds, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage in the Forest of Dean. Summer can also be excellent, though routes may be busier, and winter can be challenging due to colder weather and potentially icy conditions on some trails.

The Forest of Dean is particularly well-equipped for cyclists, featuring a dedicated Cycle Centre. Here you'll find a network of trails, including the family-friendly Colliers Trail, the varied Verderers Trail, and the more challenging Freeminer Trail. For more information on the cycling trails in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, you can visit visitdeanwye.co.uk.

Yes, the Cotswold Lakes (formerly Cotswold Water Park) area, with its more than 180 lakes, offers numerous cycling trails. These routes provide a flatter terrain option compared to the rolling hills of the wider Cotswolds, allowing cyclists to enjoy the natural beauty of the lakeside environment.