The best gravel rides around Selwood

There are over 25 gravel bike routes in the Selwood area, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored these trails over 100 times, providing valuable insights.

For a more moderate and potentially family-friendly option, consider the Shearwater Lake – Shearwater Lake loop from Horningsham. This 10.5-mile (16.8 km) trail leads through a scenic area and can typically be completed in about 1 hour 14 minutes.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Honeypot Lane Singletrack – Wylye Valley Quiet Road loop from Frome is a difficult 45.1-mile (72.5 km) route with varied terrain. Another demanding option is the View from Westbury White Horse – Imber Range Path loop from Westbury, spanning 51.2 miles (82.3 km) and offering expansive views.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in Selwood are designed as loops. Examples include the Shearwater Lake – Shearwater Lake loop from Horningsham and the Stourhead House and Gardens – Cold Kitchen Hill Trig Point loop from Stourton with Gasper, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

The terrain around Selwood is diverse, featuring rolling hills, woodlands, and quiet country roads. You'll encounter a mix of firm gravel paths, varied singletrack sections, and routes around notable estates and lakes. Some routes, like the Honeypot Lane Singletrack – Wylye Valley Quiet Road loop from Frome, specifically highlight singletrack experiences.

Many routes offer scenic views. The View from Westbury White Horse – Imber Range Path loop from Westbury provides expansive vistas, including the iconic Westbury White Horse. You can also find viewpoints like Cold Kitchen Hill Trig Point and Cley Hill in the wider Selwood area.

Absolutely. The region is rich in history and attractions. You might pass by Longleat House or explore areas near Avoncliff Aqueduct and the Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath. The Stourhead House and Gardens loop also takes you through a historically significant area.

The komoot community highly rates the Selwood trails, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 16 reviews. Riders often praise the quiet country roads, varied singletrack sections, and scenic lake loops, highlighting the diverse and engaging experiences available.

Yes, some routes integrate well-known paths. For instance, the View from Westbury White Horse – Imber Range Path loop from Westbury follows sections of the Imber Range Path, offering a blend of established trails and gravel sections.

Selwood's landscape of woodlands and country roads makes it enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Winter rides are possible, but conditions can be muddier on unpaved sections.

While popular routes are well-loved, exploring trails like the Great Ridge Gravel Trail – Pertwood Singletrack East loop from Warminster can offer a slightly less frequented experience. This moderate 23-mile route provides a good mix of gravel and singletrack away from the busiest spots.