The best traffic-free bike rides around Westwood

There are 7 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Westwood. These routes offer a mix of moderate and difficult options, ensuring a suitable ride for various skill levels.

The routes around Westwood feature varied terrain, often following canal towpaths and quiet country roads. You can expect gentle riverside paths, such as those along the Kennet and Avon Canal, as well as routes with notable elevation gains, particularly on the more difficult tours. For example, the Dundas Aqueduct – Avoncliff Aqueduct loop from Avoncliff involves over 500 meters of elevation gain.

While there are no routes specifically marked as 'easy' in this selection, many sections of the canal towpaths, like the Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath, are generally flat and suitable for families. For a moderate option, consider the Dundas Aqueduct – Avoncliff Aqueduct loop from Westwood, which is shorter at 16 km and has manageable elevation.

Many routes pass by significant historical and natural attractions. You can cycle past engineering marvels like the Dundas Aqueduct and the Avoncliff Aqueduct. Other notable sights include the Bath Abbey and the ancient Roman Baths. For a glimpse into local history, the Stoney Littleton Long Barrow is also nearby.

Yes, all the featured no-traffic touring cycling routes around Westwood are circular. This allows for convenient starting and ending points without the need for backtracking. Examples include the Hilperton Marsh Bridge – Great Chalfield Manor loop from Avoncliff and the Bradford-on-Avon Tithe Barn – Avoncliff Aqueduct loop from Avoncliff.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 900 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the scenic canal paths, and the historical landmarks encountered along the way.

While there are no routes specifically classified as 'easy' in this selection, beginners might find the shorter, moderate routes more approachable. The Dundas Aqueduct – Avoncliff Aqueduct loop from Westwood is the shortest at just over 16 km, making it a good option to start with, though it still includes some elevation.

Many of the routes are accessible from towns like Avoncliff and Bradford-on-Avon, which have train stations. This makes it convenient to reach the starting points of tours such as the Biddestone Village Pond – The Lock Inn Café loop from Avoncliff, allowing for car-free travel to your cycling adventure.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Westwood, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, but routes may be busier. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for colder, potentially wetter weather and shorter daylight hours.

Yes, several routes pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes and pubs. For instance, the Biddestone Village Pond – The Lock Inn Café loop from Avoncliff explicitly mentions 'The Lock Inn Café' in its name, indicating a convenient stop for refreshments along the way.