The best cycling routes around Melksham
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Touring cycling around Melksham offers routes through the West Wiltshire countryside, characterized by the River Avon and the Kennet and Avon Canal. The area features a mix of flat, traffic-free towpaths and quiet country lanes, with gentle hills providing varied terrain. Cyclists can explore historic villages and natural features, with options for both paved and unpaved surfaces.
Best touring cycling routes around Melksham
- The most popular touring cycling route is Caen Hill Locks, Devizes White Horse and Lacock loop, a 34.6 miles (55.7 km) trail that takes 3 hours 43 minutes to complete. This route features the impressive Caen Hill Locks and the historic village of Lacock.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Caen Hill Locks – Avoncliff Aqueduct loop from Melksham, a moderate 37.5 miles (60.3 km) path. This route follows sections of the Kennet and Avon Canal, passing engineering marvels like the Avoncliff Aqueduct.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Bowerhill Canal Picnic Area – Caen Hill Locks loop from Melksham, a 75.5 miles (121.6 km) trail leading through the canal network and countryside, often completed in about 7 hours 36 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Melksham is defined by riverside paths, canal towpaths, and routes connecting historic villages. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy rides to more challenging long-distance routes.
- The routes in Melksham are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from more than 20 reviews. More than 500 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Melksham's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 20, 2026
3.3
(3)
8
riders
55.7km
03:43
440m
440m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
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98
riders
60.3km
03:52
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(4)
43
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
24
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31.9km
02:22
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
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21
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27.8km
01:42
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
As most English canalpaths, it's too narrow for my liking. However I don't think there's a better alternative so I stuck with it.
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Although the parish church of St Peter at Monkton Farleigh was largely rebuilt in the 19th century, it retains some features of the 12th century -the tower and the north door. This early building was possibly connected to the foundation of the Cluniac Priory in the same village in about 1120-30. Today it has an aisleless nave and chancel in 13th century style, built of local limestone, under a considerable quantity of stone tiles on the roof. Despite being so close to the source of some of the best building stone in the country, the whole church, apart from some dressings, is made of rubble stone. It is listed, Grade II* for the old parts. Monkton Farleigh church tower The west tower is 12th century Norman romanesque with twin round-headed windows with roll mouldings on each face of the bell chamber. Short buttresses at the base, the parapet and saddleback roof were added later. The tall arch into the nave is from a Victorian “restoration”. The other medieval survival is the porch on the north side of the nave, which protects a typical Norman round-arched doorway with chevron decoration into which a Tudor doorway had been inserted and retains its wooden door of that time.
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Very beautiful and pleasant
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Check on tour times if you want to look around the house - well worth it. About 45 mins.
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Steep Steps down to the river and for view of the aqueduct are on the Bradford on Avon side.
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the point at which the Kennet and Avon canal crossed the river and railway line via the Aqueduct built by John Rennie & John Thomas between 1797 and 1801. Good pub here which will reopen summer 2025. This is on the main railway line now becoming a regular (request?) stop since 2011
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Melksham?
There are over 50 touring cycling routes around Melksham, offering a diverse range of options for exploring the West Wiltshire countryside. These include 12 easy routes, 31 moderate routes, and 12 difficult routes, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Melksham?
The terrain around Melksham is varied, featuring a mix of flat, traffic-free canal towpaths, quiet country lanes, and gentle hills. You'll find options for both paved and unpaved surfaces, making it suitable for road, gravel, and trekking bikes.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Melksham?
Yes, Melksham offers several easy routes suitable for families. These often follow the flat, traffic-free sections of the Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath, providing a safe and scenic environment. For example, the Lacock Village – View of Lacock Abbey loop from Melksham is an easy 18.7 km ride that takes you through picturesque scenery.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see along the cycling routes?
Many routes pass by significant landmarks. You can cycle past the impressive Caen Hill Locks near Devizes, or the historic Avoncliff Aqueduct. The charming village of Lacock, with its Abbey, is also a popular destination. The Caen Hill Locks, Devizes White Horse and Lacock loop is a great option to see several of these.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes starting from Melksham?
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Melksham are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. A popular moderate option is the Caen Hill Locks – Avoncliff Aqueduct loop from Melksham, which covers 60.3 km and takes you along sections of the Kennet and Avon Canal.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Melksham?
The touring cycling routes in Melksham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 20 reviews. Over 500 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the scenic canal towpaths, quiet country lanes, and the blend of natural beauty with historic attractions.
Can I combine cycling with exploring historic villages?
Absolutely. Melksham is ideally situated for cycling to nearby historic villages. Lacock, a beautifully preserved medieval village owned by the National Trust, is just 4 miles away. You can also cycle to Bradford-on-Avon, known for its historic bridge and views of the River Avon. The Lacock Village – View of Lacock Abbey loop from Melksham is a perfect route for this.
Are there any long-distance or more challenging touring routes?
For experienced touring cyclists seeking a longer challenge, routes like the Bowerhill Canal Picnic Area – Caen Hill Locks loop from Melksham offer a substantial ride. This difficult 121.6 km trail leads through the canal network and countryside, typically taking over 7 hours to complete.
What natural features can I expect to see while cycling?
Melksham's routes often follow the River Avon and the Kennet and Avon Canal, providing opportunities to spot wildlife in tranquil natural settings. You'll cycle through leafy woodlands and past green spaces like Conigre Mead Nature Reserve, which is known for butterflies, dragonflies, and kingfishers.
Is there a route that includes the Devizes White Horse?
Yes, you can cycle to see the Devizes Millennium White Horse. The Devizes Millennium White Horse – Caen Hill Locks loop from Melksham is a moderate 31.9 km route that includes this iconic landmark along with the impressive Caen Hill Locks.
What is the Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath like for cycling?
The Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath offers a largely traffic-free and picturesque cycling experience. It's a popular choice for its tranquil nature, stunning scenery, and opportunities to spot wildlife. You can head east towards the Caen Hill Locks or west towards Bradford-on-Avon and Bath. A section of the towpath, Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath — Dundas Aqueduct to Avoncliff, is a highlight in itself.
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