The best traffic-free bike rides around East Pennard

There are over 140 no-traffic road cycling routes around East Pennard, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix, with about 40 easy routes, over 100 moderate routes, and a few more challenging options.

The routes around East Pennard offer a diverse landscape. You'll cycle through quiet country lanes, experience rolling terrain, and enjoy magnificent vantage points from the upper slopes of Pennard Hill. Many routes also provide views across the expansive Somerset Levels and towards iconic landmarks like Glastonbury Tor.

Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes around East Pennard are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An example is the Avalon Organic Vineyard – Soccer Field loop from Pylle, which is an easy 34 km ride.

You'll find several scenic stops and points of interest. From many routes, you can spot Worthy Farm, the site of the Glastonbury Festival. For stunning panoramic views, consider a route that passes near Glastonbury Tor. Other notable attractions in the wider area include Wells Cathedral and The Bishop's Palace, Wells.

While most routes are easy to moderate, there are a few more challenging options available. These typically feature greater elevation gains and longer distances, providing a good workout for experienced cyclists looking for quiet roads. For example, the View of Glastonbury Tor – View of Evercreech Church loop from Pylle is a moderate 37.8 km route with over 370 meters of elevation gain.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 130 ratings. Reviewers often praise the quiet country lanes, the beautiful rolling terrain, and the opportunity to enjoy scenic views without heavy traffic.

Yes, several routes provide excellent views of Glastonbury Tor. The View of Glastonbury Tor – View of Evercreech Church loop from Pylle is specifically designed to offer this iconic landmark as a highlight, providing amazing views of the Somerset Levels, Dorset, Wiltshire, and even Wales on a clear day.

Yes, some routes are designed to pass by local establishments. For instance, the View of Lamyatt – Evercreech Bakery loop from Pylle offers a moderate 21 km ride that includes a stop at a local bakery. Another route, The Three Horseshoes Pub – Walters Hill Bridleway loop from Ditcheat, passes by a pub, perfect for a refreshment stop.

Beyond the general landscape, you can find unique natural features. While not directly on every cycling route, the area is home to natural monuments like the White Spring, Glastonbury and the ancient Gog and Magog Ancient Oaks. The region's topography, including Pennard Hill and the Somerset Levels, offers its own natural beauty.

East Pennard's quiet country lanes are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter can still be suitable on clear, dry days, though some lanes might be more susceptible to wet conditions.

East Pennard and its surroundings are rich in history. The village itself features All Saints Church, a 14th-century parish church with a Norman font. Nearby, you can explore historic sites like The Bishop's Palace, Wells, offering a glimpse into the region's past.