The best road cycling routes around Wells

There are over 80 road cycling routes around Wells, catering to various skill levels. You'll find everything from leisurely rides to challenging climbs through the Mendip Hills.

The terrain around Wells is quite diverse. You can expect challenging climbs and rewarding descents in the Mendip Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with some routes featuring significant elevation gains. In contrast, the Avalon Marshes offer flat landscapes, quiet lanes, and dedicated cycle paths for more relaxed cycling.

Yes, Wells offers routes suitable for all fitness levels. While the Mendip Hills provide challenging rides, the flat landscape of the Avalon Marshes is ideal for more relaxed cycling. Many routes have mostly well-paved surfaces, making them accessible to a wide range of cyclists. For example, the Sweets Tea Rooms – Sweet's Tea Rooms & Museum loop from Wells is a moderate option with less elevation.

For those seeking a challenge, the Mendip Hills offer routes with significant elevation gains. A popular difficult route is the Cheddar Gorge, Burrington Combe & Ebbor Gorge loop — Mendip Hills, which covers 36 miles with substantial climbing. Another option is the Cheddar Gorge Climb – Cheddar Gorge loop from Wells, offering a challenging ascent through the iconic gorge.

Road cycling routes around Wells often incorporate stunning natural landmarks. You can cycle through the dramatic Cheddar Gorge, explore the beautiful Ebbor Gorge, or pass through the expansive Mendip Hills National Landscape. The Avalon Marshes also feature nature reserves like Shapwick Heath and Ham Wall.

Yes, several routes either start from or pass by significant historical sites. Wells Cathedral often serves as a focal point for rides, allowing cyclists to explore the rich history of Somerset. You might also encounter sites like Glastonbury Tor or Priddy Nine Barrows on some routes.

Many routes around Wells promise continually changing countryside vistas. The Wells Cathedral – Cheddar Gorge Climb loop from Wells offers views through the Mendip Hills. Cycling through Cheddar Gorge itself provides dramatic scenery, while the Avalon Marshes offer picturesque views of wetlands and open meadows.

Yes, many road cycling routes around Wells are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Cheddar Gorge, Burrington Combe & Ebbor Gorge loop and the Cheddar Gorge Climb – Cheddar Gorge loop from Wells. The Avalon Marshes Project has also developed specific circular routes.

Yes, the area around Wells is well-equipped with cafes and pubs, especially in towns and villages along popular routes. The Sweets Tea Rooms – Sweet's Tea Rooms & Museum loop from Wells even has a tea room in its name, indicating potential refreshment stops. Many routes will pass through areas where you can find a break.

The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Wells, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, the varied terrain means that even in cooler months, you can find suitable routes, though some higher elevation areas in the Mendips might be more exposed.

Wells offers various parking options within the city, which can serve as a convenient starting point for your road cycling adventures. Many routes begin and end near the city center, making it easy to access your bike after parking.

The road cycling routes in Wells are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from the challenging Mendip Hills to the serene Avalon Marshes, and the continually changing scenic views.