The best traffic-free bike rides around Cheltenham

Komoot offers over 20 routes for traffic-free gravel biking around Cheltenham. These range from moderate to difficult, providing a variety of challenges for different skill levels. You'll find plenty of options to explore the beautiful Cotswolds and surrounding areas away from vehicle traffic.

The terrain varies significantly, reflecting the diverse landscapes surrounding Cheltenham. You can expect rolling hills and quiet country lanes in the Cotswolds, extensive winding forest trails in the Forest of Dean, and some enjoyable gravel sections with spectacular views in the Malvern Hills. Many routes feature a mix of gravel tracks, bridleways, and byways, often with significant elevation changes.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Cheltenham are designed as loops. For example, the challenging Guiting Power Village – Campden Lane loop from Cheltenham Spa offers a substantial circular ride through the Cotswolds. Another option is the Cleeve Hill Climb and Descent – Summit view from Cleeve Hill loop from Bishop's Cleeve, which provides thrilling trails and diverse landscapes.

Many routes offer stunning natural beauty and points of interest. You might pass by the scenic Dowdeswell Reservoir, enjoy panoramic views from Wistley Hill, or take in the expansive View of Cheltenham from the Cotswold Escarpment. Some trails also incorporate parts of old railway lines, like the Honeybourne Line Bridge, now repurposed for cyclists and walkers.

While many routes are moderate to difficult, areas like the Forest of Dean offer extensive networks of trails suitable for all abilities, including families. Within Cheltenham, green spaces like Pittville Park and Cox's Meadow provide pleasant, traffic-free environments for leisurely rides. For a dedicated gravel route, consider starting with shorter, less elevated sections to gauge suitability.

Many bridleways and byways in the Cotswolds and the Forest of Dean are dog-friendly, provided your dog is well-behaved and kept under control, especially around livestock or other trail users. Always check local signage and be mindful of wildlife. Remember to carry water for your dog and clean up after them.

Spring and autumn are generally ideal, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer can also be great, but be prepared for warmer weather and potentially busier trails. Winter riding is possible, especially on well-drained gravel paths, but some trails may become muddy or slippery, particularly in the Forest of Dean or on higher Cotswold routes. Always check weather and trail conditions before heading out.

While specific routes may not have cafes directly on the trail, many routes pass through or near picturesque Cotswold villages known for their charming pubs and cafes. The local cycling community often incorporates café stops into their rides. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify nearby refreshment stops.

The komoot community rates the routes around Cheltenham highly, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Riders frequently praise the stunning natural beauty of the Cotswolds, the variety of terrain from rolling hills to ancient woodlands, and the satisfaction of exploring extensive networks of quiet gravel tracks and bridleways away from traffic. The challenging climbs and rewarding views are also often highlighted.

Access varies by trail. While some routes start directly from Cheltenham, making them accessible by local transport, many of the more extensive gravel routes are best reached by car. Parking is generally available in or near the starting points of many routes, especially in villages within the Cotswolds or at designated trailheads in areas like the Forest of Dean. Always check specific parking options for your chosen route.

Generally, no specific permits are required for cycling on public bridleways and byways in the Cotswolds or the Forest of Dean. However, always respect private land, stick to designated paths, and be aware of any local regulations, especially within nature reserves or sensitive areas. The Malvern Hills Trust, for example, advises caution to avoid sensitive archaeological monuments.