The best traffic-free bike rides in Rodney Stoke National Nature Reserve

There are over 40 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in and around Rodney Stoke National Nature Reserve, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels for you to explore.

Yes, the area offers several easy, traffic-free routes. For a gentle ride, consider The Sheppey – The Ford loop from Wookey, which is approximately 22 km with minimal elevation gain. The Strawberry Line is also a pleasant, traffic-free option, though some narrow bike gates might be challenging for wider bikes.

The Mendip Hills, where Rodney Stoke National Nature Reserve is located, feature diverse terrain. While many no-traffic routes are predominantly paved, you can expect some challenging climbs due to the limestone geology, offering rewarding views. Longer routes might include some unpaved sections.

Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes in the area are circular. For example, the Chew Valley Lake – Bridge Over Blagdon Lake loop from Wookey Hole offers a moderate 49 km circular ride with significant elevation, while the View of Glastonbury Tor – Wells Cathedral loop from Wookey Hole is another moderate circular option at around 46 km.

Road cycling routes in the region often pass by significant landmarks. You can cycle towards the historic city of Wells to see its famous Cathedral, or incorporate a challenging climb through the dramatic scenery of Cheddar Gorge. Other points of interest include the Somerset Rural Life Museum and the Church of St Laurence.

The Mendip Hills offer beautiful cycling opportunities throughout the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also excellent, but be prepared for more visitors, especially around popular spots like Cheddar Gorge. Winter cycling is possible, but check weather conditions for ice or strong winds, particularly on exposed higher ground.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes incorporating the climb through Cheddar Gorge offer dramatic scenery and significant elevation. A more demanding option is the Stourhead House – Gare Hill loop from Wookey Hole, a difficult 80 km ride with nearly 1000 meters of elevation gain.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience here, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 100 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from dramatic gorges to scenic views across the Somerset Levels, and the variety of routes catering to different fitness levels.

Yes, many cycling routes in the area pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes, pubs, and accommodation. The Strawberry Line, for instance, is known for refreshment opportunities along its path. Wells and Cheddar also offer numerous options for food and drink.

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages near the start points of many routes, such as Wookey Hole or Cheddar. Always check local signage for specific parking regulations and fees. Some routes may also have designated car parks at trailheads.

While public transport options might be limited directly to the smaller, more remote starting points, larger towns like Wells or Cheddar, which are often integrated into cycling routes, are more accessible by bus. From these points, you can often connect to the quieter roads and trails.