The best road cycling routes around Longleat Forest
4.5
(195)
5,041
riders
275
rides
Road cycling routes around Longleat Forest traverse a diverse landscape of rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and quiet country roads within the Wiltshire countryside. The area features well-paved forest roads that offer sheltered riding conditions, even on warm or windy days. Cyclists can expect varied terrain, from gentle gradients suitable for easy rides to more challenging routes with significant elevation gain. The region's natural features, including towering giant redwoods and scenic water bodies like Shearwater Lake, provide a compelling backdrop for road cycling.
Best road cycling routes around Longleat Forest
- The most popular road cycling route is Shearwater Lake – Forest Road in Cranborne Chase loop from Cley Hill, a 13.7 miles (22.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 9 minutes to complete. This moderate route features quiet forest roads and scenic lake views.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Cranborne Chase Scenic Road – Kingston Deverill Ford loop from Longbridge Deverill, an easy 10.9 miles (17.5 km) path. This route winds through the picturesque Cranborne Chase area with gentle elevation.
- Local road cyclists also love the Bridges Over the River loop from Warminster, a 13.2 miles (21.3 km) trail leading through the Warminster area, often completed in about 57 minutes.
- Road cycling around Longleat Forest is defined by rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and quiet forest roads. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging rides with significant climbs.
- The routes in Longleat Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 140 reviews. More than 4,800 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Longleat Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 7, 2026
18
riders
22.1km
01:03
240m
240m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
38
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
22
riders
21.7km
01:00
140m
140m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
15
riders
19.3km
00:56
260m
260m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
8
riders
18.7km
01:24
270m
270m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Great climb, tougher than it looks, but very manageable. Perfect tarmac, and virtually no traffic. Recommended.
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The food here is amazing, but be aware that the only way out is uphill - so don't abuse it.
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Challenging climb out of longleaf but view from the top worth it
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Reasonably gentle climb out of the estate with lovely views if you check over your shoulder as you leave. Great road surface. Be mindful that unlike other parts of the estate, this road is used by car traffic.
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he parish church of St. Peter and St. Paul was founded in the late 11th century. It was given to Salisbury Cathedral c.1115 by Henry I to form part of a living. The value of this church was soon increased by other gifts of property, and within a few years there were canons at Heytesbury. By c.1160 it was established as a collegiate church with a dean and four prebendaries, two each of priests and deacons. A collegiate church was effectively a 'mother church' with resident priests whose task it was to go out into the wider community as missionaries, with the aim of encouraging new 'daughter churches'. In the 13th century the holder of the deanery became, and remained, the Dean of Salisbury. The college at Heytesbury and its property belonged to him. Most parishes came under the jurisdiction of the Bishop of the Diocese, but Heytesbury belonged to the Dean and was therefore known as a peculiar. The Cathedrals Act of 1840 dissolved the college and abolished the prebends. The church itself is described by Pevsner as 'a large and impressive church, but an over-restored one'. The external view is dominated by its low, massive and square Norman tower in the centre. Most of the building dates from the late 12th, the 13th and the 15th centuries.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in the Longleat Forest area?
There are nearly 300 road cycling routes available around Longleat Forest, catering to various skill levels. This includes over 70 easy routes, nearly 200 moderate options, and more than 30 challenging rides for experienced cyclists.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Longleat Forest?
Road cycling routes in Longleat Forest feature a diverse landscape of rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and quiet country roads. You'll find well-paved forest roads offering sheltered riding, as well as routes with significant elevation gain that may include some unpaved segments, particularly on more challenging rides.
Are there any easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Longleat Forest offers over 70 easy road cycling routes. A great option for a gentler ride is the Cranborne Chase Scenic Road – Kingston Deverill Ford loop from Longbridge Deverill, which is an easy 10.9-mile path winding through picturesque scenery with gentle elevation.
What are some notable natural features or viewpoints I can see while cycling?
While cycling around Longleat Forest, you can experience stunning natural beauty. Keep an eye out for magnificent giant redwoods, some of the tallest trees in Europe, and enjoy scenic views around Shearwater Lake. The broader Wiltshire countryside also offers chalk downlands and clay valleys, providing varied and picturesque backdrops.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are over 30 difficult routes. The Wiltshire Cycleway southern section, loop from Warminster is a demanding 61.8-mile route with significant elevation, offering a substantial ride through the area.
What do other road cyclists say about their experience in Longleat Forest?
The road cycling routes in Longleat Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 140 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet forest roads, diverse landscapes, and the variety of routes suitable for different abilities.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in the Longleat Forest area?
Yes, many of the routes in Longleat Forest are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Shearwater Lake – Forest Road in Cranborne Chase loop from Cley Hill and the longer loop of Warminster, Wylye, the Deverils & Longleat House.
What kind of attractions or landmarks can I find near the cycling routes?
Beyond the natural environment, you can find several attractions. The historic Longleat House and the famous Longleat Safari Park are nearby. You might also encounter the Heaven's Gate Sculpture, offering unique views, or pass by the scenic Shearwater Lake.
Are there specific national cycle routes that pass through Longleat Forest?
Yes, sections of the Wiltshire Cycleway, a 160-mile circular route, pass through the Longleat area. Additionally, National Cycle Routes 24 and 25 traverse the Longleat Estate, connecting to destinations like Bath and Bournemouth. Access through the estate for these routes is for pedal cycles only, with specific conditions.
Where can I find cafes or places to stop for refreshments during my ride?
The region offers several options for refreshments. Cyclists can find cafes in villages like Stourton and tearooms at Shearwater. Many of the local villages along the routes, such as Longbridge Deverill and Monkton Deverill, also provide opportunities for a break.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling in Longleat Forest?
Longleat Forest offers good cycling conditions throughout much of the year. The quiet, well-paved forest roads provide a cool, sheltered alternative to main drives, even on hot or windy days. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Is there parking available for road cyclists in the Longleat Forest area?
While specific parking locations are not detailed for every route, the Longleat Forest area, being a popular outdoor destination, generally offers parking options in nearby towns and villages such as Warminster, Longbridge Deverill, or near key attractions like Shearwater Lake, which serve as good starting points for rides.
Most popular routes around Longleat Forest
Most popular attractions around Longleat Forest
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