The best traffic-free bike rides in South Gloucestershire

Embark on the East Bristol bridleway loop from Temple Meads, a moderate gravel ride spanning 25.8 miles (41.5 km) with 848 feet (258 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 45 minutes. This route offers a diverse mix of paved surfaces, light gravel, farm tracks, and even some singletrack, blending urban off-road sections with picturesque countryside. You will cycle along the Bristol and Bath Railway Path, enjoying views of the River Avon, and pass through the 1.1-mile (1.8 km) lit Staple Hill Tunnel, a notable landmark on your journey.

While suitable for all skill levels, be prepared for varied terrain including potentially muddy sections, technical climbs, and rocky parts, especially if conditions are wet. The Cattybrook Bridleway Climb, for instance, can be quite challenging even in dry weather with its large rocks and slippery bits. The route is easily accessible from Temple Meads, but remember that some unpaved sections, including old Roman roads, can become very sloppy in winter, so plan your visit accordingly.

This loop is celebrated as the most popular gravel bike trail around Bristol on Komoot, praised for its accessibility and variety. It effectively blends urban and natural environments, allowing you to experience Bristol from a unique perspective. The Bristol and Bath Railway Path, a significant part of the route, holds historical importance as a former railway line and was the first major project by Sustrans, featuring former railway stations and quirky sculptures along the way.

Embark on the Saltford and Keynsham rocky byways loop, a moderate gravel biking adventure spanning 29.7 miles (47.8 km) with 1384 feet (422 metres) of elevation gain. This route, typically completed in around 3 hours and 27 minutes, lives up to its name with significant sections of rocky gravel, especially on the Queen Charlton Byway. You will navigate a diverse mix of surfaces, from fine gravel and broken tarmac to cobble-style set stones and an "awesome little twisty section of single track" at Saltford, all while exploring picturesque countryside and rural landscapes.

Starting and ending at Bristol Temple Meads, this loop is easily accessible for urban cyclists seeking an off-road experience. Be prepared for the challenging terrain; a tubeless tire setup is highly recommended for puncture resistance, especially on the loose, large rocks. In wet conditions, certain rocky sections can transform into a muddy "river," adding an extra layer of difficulty and fun to your ride.

This popular loop is a favorite among local gravel bikers, offering a rewarding experience that balances scenic beauty with technical challenge. It showcases the diverse scenery characteristic of the Bristol area, including urban off-road routes, extensive trail networks, and river paths. The route provides a unique opportunity to see Bristol from a different perspective and explore green spaces directly from the city.

Get ready for a moderate gravel biking adventure on the Avon Cycleway and Cotswold Edge Loop. This route takes you through diverse landscapes, offering quiet country lanes, traffic-free paths, and some bridleways. You will enjoy expansive views over the Severn Valley, pedal through picturesque Cotswold villages, and pass open pastures, with the Somerset Monument standing out as a notable landmark. Covering 37.2 miles (59.8 km) with 1421 feet (433 metres) of elevation gain, you can expect to complete it in about 3 hours and 58 minutes.

When planning your visit, be aware that while the Avon Cycleway is generally well-signposted, some bridleways on the loop can become quite muddy after rain, especially during wetter seasons. It is a good idea to check weather conditions before you head out. Parking is usually available in the towns and villages located along the route, providing convenient access points for you to start your ride.

This loop uniquely combines the varied terrain of the Avon Cycleway with the rugged beauty of the Cotswold Edge, offering a rewarding experience for gravel biking enthusiasts. You will find a mix of surfaces and scenery that keeps the ride engaging from start to finish. It is a great way to explore the region's natural charm and rural character on two wheels.

Gravel biking on The Bristol loop offers a diverse and engaging experience through the Cotswolds National Landscape. This difficult 69.4-mile (111.7 km) route features a significant 3696 feet (1127 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 8 hours and 14 minutes to complete. You will traverse rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and tranquil river valleys, passing through charming honey-colored villages and enjoying panoramic views from viewpoints like Cleeve Hill. Expect a mix of surfaces, from smooth gravel paths and forest tracks to rocky terrain and field margin bridleways, with some sections potentially requiring you to push your bike due to steepness or technical challenges.

Planning your visit requires good or very good fitness and advanced riding skills, especially given the route's duration and elevation. Be aware that some climbs are described as "techy and challenging," featuring large rocks and potentially slippery conditions. In winter, certain trails can become very wet and muddy, so consider the season when you plan your ride. A tubeless tire setup is often recommended to help prevent punctures on rocky sections like the Queen Charlton Byway.

This trail is notable for its incorporation of historic pathways, such as parts of the Roman Fosse Way, offering a unique sense of history as you ride. The underlying Jurassic oolitic limestone bedrock shapes the landscape, contributing to the iconic dry stone walls and the warm tones of traditional Cotswold villages. As the largest National Landscape in the UK, the Cotswolds provides nearly 800 square miles of varied scenery, from dramatic escarpments to tranquil valleys, ensuring a rich and varied gravel biking adventure.