The best traffic-free bike rides around Cricklade

There are over 9 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes around Cricklade featured in this guide, offering a variety of distances and experiences for road cyclists looking to avoid busy roads.

The terrain around Cricklade is generally flat and features predominantly paved surfaces, making it ideal for road cycling. Many routes wind through the numerous lakes of the Cotswold Water Park, offering smooth rides and scenic views. You'll find gentle gradients rather than challenging climbs.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. For example, the Traffic-Free Bridleway – Flat, Smooth, and Quiet Lanes loop from Cricklade is an excellent option, offering a shorter distance and minimal elevation gain.

Absolutely. Many of the routes around Cricklade are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. This includes routes that explore the Cotswold Water Park and the surrounding quiet lanes, such as the Marston Meysey Lane – Eastleach Turville loop from Cricklade.

The routes often pass through or near the extensive Cotswold Water Park with its over 150 lakes, providing unique waterside scenery. You might also encounter the internationally important North Meadow National Nature Reserve, known for its rare snake's-head fritillaries in spring, and sections near the River Thames, as Cricklade is the 'First Town on the Thames'.

Yes, you can explore various points of interest. The National Cycle Route 45 (NCN 45) offers a traffic-free experience connecting Cricklade to areas like South Cerney. Other nearby attractions include the Cirencester Amphitheatre and various lakes within the Cotswold Water Park.

Spring (late April/early May) is particularly beautiful, as the North Meadow National Nature Reserve displays its spectacular snake's-head fritillaries. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while autumn provides pleasant temperatures and colourful foliage. The generally flat terrain makes it enjoyable across most seasons, weather permitting.

Absolutely. The Cotswold Water Park is home to numerous nature reserves, and areas like North Meadow and Blakehill Nature Reserve are rich in wildlife. Cyclists often report seeing a variety of birds, insects, and other small animals, especially in the quieter sections of the routes.

Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. Some routes may pass through villages with local pubs or cafes. For example, Jennie's Kitchen at Wheatley's Barn Farm is a popular stop that cyclists often enjoy.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free lanes, the stunning scenery of the Cotswold Water Park, and the flat, smooth surfaces that make for an enjoyable road cycling experience.

The routes vary in length to suit different preferences. You can find shorter loops, such as the 21 km Traffic-Free Bridleway – Flat, Smooth, and Quiet Lanes loop, or longer excursions like the 64 km Rodmarton Lane – Oaksey Village loop from Cricklade, offering rides of a few hours to a full day.

While specific public transport links directly to the start of every route can vary, Cricklade itself is accessible by bus services. It's advisable to check local bus timetables for routes connecting to Cricklade and whether they accommodate bicycles, especially for reaching the starting points of the more remote trails.