The best road cycling routes around Mendip

The Mendip Hills offer a vast network of over 650 road cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, from leisurely rides through picturesque villages to challenging ascents and exhilarating descents across its diverse landscapes.

Road cycling in Mendip features a diverse landscape, characterized by picturesque limestone ridges, undulating hills, and dramatic dry valleys. You'll encounter routes that rise from the flat Somerset Levels, offering extensive views, as well as serene sections around lakes like Blagdon and Chew Valley. Elevations range from 6 to 320 meters, ensuring varied and engaging rides.

Yes, Mendip offers routes suitable for all skill levels. There are over 180 easy routes available. For a particularly gentle experience, the Strawberry Line provides a cherished traffic-free path along a disused railway line, perfect for families or those seeking a relaxed ride through orchards and wooded valleys.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Mendip Hills offer routes with significant climbs. Consider the Cheddar Gorge, Burrington Combe & Ebbor Gorge loop, which features iconic limestone gorges and demanding ascents. Another option is the longer Cheddar Gorge Climb – Cheddar Gorge loop from Street, known for its substantial elevation gain.

Many routes in Mendip pass by stunning natural landmarks and historical sites. You can cycle through the dramatic Ebbor Gorge, experience the challenging climb of Burrington Combe, or enjoy views of the serene Blagdon Lake and Chew Valley Lake. Some routes also offer glimpses of iconic sites like Wells Cathedral or even Glastonbury Tor on longer excursions.

While the relatively mild climate allows for year-round cycling with appropriate clothing, spring and summer are generally considered the best seasons. During these months, you'll experience milder temperatures and the countryside in full bloom, making for particularly scenic rides.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Mendip are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Radstock & Bradford on Avon loop from Frome or the Cheddar Gorge Climb – Cheddar Gorge loop from Wells, offering convenient circular journeys.

The Mendip Hills are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 240 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the variety of routes catering to all abilities, and the breathtaking views from the limestone ridges and across the Somerset Levels.

Yes, some routes extend to include historical sites. For instance, you could find routes that pass near Farleigh Hungerford Castle or Nunney Castle. The area around Charterhouse also holds fascinating historical significance with its Roman mining history.

Many road cycling routes in Mendip pass through charming villages and towns where you can find cafes and pubs for a refreshing stop. While specific routes aren't listed with cafe stops, planning your ride through places like Frome or Wells will offer plenty of opportunities for refreshments. For example, the Winding Country Road – The Garden Cafe, Frome loop from Frome suggests a cafe stop.

To avoid the busiest areas, especially during peak times, consider exploring routes that venture into the quieter parts of the Mendip Hills, away from the most famous attractions like Cheddar Gorge. Routes that traverse the ancient broadleaf woodlands or the wild heathland of Blackdown might offer a more secluded experience.

Yes, the Mendip Hills are renowned for their cave systems. While cycling, you might pass near the areas of Wookey Hole Caves or the famous Cheddar Gorge caves. The Ebbor Gorge is also a notable natural feature with cave formations.