Strawberry Line and Chew Valley Lake Loop

This combined route is classified as a difficult touring bicycle ride. It covers approximately 58.5 km (36 miles) with an elevation gain of about 540 meters (1,770 feet), requiring very good fitness. While the Strawberry Line section is mostly flat and traffic-free, the Chew Valley Lake portion features undulating roads and some challenging climbs, contributing to the overall difficulty.

The route offers varied terrain. The Strawberry Line is predominantly traffic-free with mostly paved or all-weather gravel surfaces, following a former railway line. The Chew Valley Lake Loop, however, features mostly asphalt roads with undulating sections, some short, minor inclines, and one long, gradual descent. There's a short trail stretch by the lake where road bikes might prefer to stay on Walley Lane.

On average, this touring bicycle route takes about 4 hours to complete. However, this duration can vary based on your cycling pace, fitness level, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery or visit points of interest.

You'll encounter several interesting spots. Highlights include the historic Axbridge Market Square, the unique Shute Shelve Tunnel on the Strawberry Line, and the scenic Chew Valley Lake. You'll also get views of the spectacular Cheddar Gorge and the Cheddar Gorge Climb.

The route can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with wildflowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is also great, though some sections might be busier. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for colder weather and potentially wet or muddy sections on the gravel parts of the Strawberry Line.

While specific parking locations for the entire loop aren't detailed, you can typically find parking near access points for the Strawberry Line in towns like Axbridge or Cheddar. For the Chew Valley Lake section, parking is often available at visitor centers or designated car parks around the lake. Always check local signage for parking restrictions and fees.

Public transport access to the Strawberry Line is available via local bus services connecting to towns along its route, such as Cheddar or Axbridge. For Chew Valley Lake, bus services from Bristol or Bath can get you to nearby villages like Chew Magna. Planning your journey in advance is recommended, especially if you're bringing a bicycle, as space may be limited.

The Strawberry Line section is generally dog-friendly, as it's a shared-use path. However, dogs should always be kept on a leash, especially around other users and wildlife. For the Chew Valley Lake section, while dogs are often allowed on paths around the lake, specific rules may apply, particularly in nature reserve areas due to the sensitive bird habitats. Always check local signage.

No specific permits or entrance fees are required to cycle the Strawberry Line and Chew Valley Lake Loop itself. As the route passes through the Mendip Hills National Landscape, there are generally no fees for accessing the natural areas. However, some specific attractions or car parks along the route might have charges, so it's always good to be prepared.

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. Notably, it includes sections of the Avon Cycleway and The Strawberry Line. You'll also find smaller portions overlapping with EuroVelo 1 - Atlantic Coast Route - part United Kingdom 2, The Butcombe Trail, and The Mendip Trail.

Yes, both the Strawberry Line and Chew Valley Lake areas offer opportunities for refreshments. Along the Strawberry Line, you'll pass through historic towns like Axbridge with pubs and cafes. Around Chew Valley Lake, charming villages like Chew Magna provide various options for food and drink, making it easy to refuel during your ride.