The best gravel rides around Badgworth

There are over 10 gravel bike trails in the Badgworth area, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored these routes over 200 times, giving them an average rating of 4.5 stars.

Yes, Badgworth offers several easy gravel paths. A great option is The Strawberry Line – View of the River Brue loop from Sandford, an 8.1-mile route that follows the scenic Strawberry Line and provides views of the River Brue. Another easy route is Shute Shelve Tunnel – Axbridge Market Square loop from Winscombe.

The gravel trails around Badgworth feature varied terrain, including historic railway lines, river valleys, and the lower slopes of the Mendip Hills. You'll encounter gentle ascents and descents, with notable features like tunnels and open views across the landscape. The routes are a mix of easy and moderate gravel paths.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in Badgworth are designed as loops. For example, the popular Shute Shelve Tunnel – Strawberry Line Tunnel loop from Cheddar is a 22.2-mile circular trail connecting two historic tunnels. Another option is the Mendip Hills Scenic Descents – Middle Down Drove Bridleway loop from Cheddar.

Many routes offer views of the Mendip Hills and the River Brue. You can also explore historical features like the Shute Shelve Tunnel and the Strawberry Line Tunnel. For natural beauty, consider highlights such as View of Cheddar Gorge or View of Cheddar Gorge and Cheddar Reservoir. The Strawberry Line itself is a notable trail.

While the guide focuses on easy to moderate routes, the Badgworth area, particularly within the Mendip Hills, does offer more challenging sections. The Mendip Hills Scenic Descents – Middle Down Drove Bridleway loop from Cheddar, for instance, includes significant elevation changes, with over 420 meters of climbing and descending.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique experience of riding through historic railway tunnels, the scenic views of the Mendip Hills, and the well-maintained gravel paths that make for enjoyable rides.

Yes, several routes are conveniently located near towns. For example, the Shute Shelve Tunnel – Axbridge Market Square loop from Winscombe passes by Axbridge Market Square, offering opportunities for a stop. The routes often connect to or pass through villages where you can find cafes or pubs.

Absolutely. The trails that traverse the lower slopes of the Mendip Hills provide excellent viewpoints. You can find highlights like Beacon Batch summit trig point or Black Down Summit and Wild Ponies, which offer expansive views of the surrounding landscape.

Yes, tunnels are a distinctive feature of gravel biking in Badgworth, particularly along the historic railway lines. The Shute Shelve Tunnel – Strawberry Line Tunnel loop from Cheddar is a prime example, connecting two historic tunnels for a unique riding experience. Another route featuring a tunnel is Strawberry Line Tunnel – Thatchers Cider Mill loop from Banwell.

The Badgworth area is generally enjoyable for gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While winter riding is possible, some paths might be muddier, and it's always advisable to check local weather conditions before heading out.