The best traffic-free bike rides around Midsomer Norton

There are over 20 touring cycling routes around Midsomer Norton that focus on minimizing traffic, offering a variety of distances and difficulties for different preferences.

The routes often utilize disused railway lines, such as the Colliers Way, providing mostly paved and relatively flat surfaces. However, Midsomer Norton is nestled in the Somer Valley and near the Mendip Hills, so some routes may include gentle rolling hills, offering a mix of easy and moderate climbs.

Yes, several routes are ideal for beginners and families. The Radstock Pit Wheel – Colliers Way loop from Midsomer Norton is an easy option, utilizing former railway lines which typically means gentler gradients and traffic-free sections. These paths are generally well-maintained and suitable for a relaxed pace.

Many routes offer scenic views and pass by interesting features. You might encounter the picturesque Somer Valley, the historic Stoney Littleton Long Barrow, or the unique industrial heritage landscape, including the conical Old Mills batch. The Dundas Aqueduct – Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath loop will take you along historic waterways.

Yes, the region around Midsomer Norton features natural attractions. You can find the Stephen's Vale Waterfall and several lakes, such as those near Chew Valley Lake, which are often accessible via connecting paths or short detours from the main touring routes.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Midsomer Norton, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, but routes can be busier. Winter can be suitable on drier days, but some paths might be muddy or slippery.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring routes around Midsomer Norton are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Colliers Way – Colliers Way (East) loop and the Colliers Way – The Walled Garden at Mells loop.

Midsomer Norton offers various parking options. Many routes, especially those utilizing former railway lines like the Colliers Way, have designated parking areas at their trailheads. Town center car parks are also available and often provide convenient access to starting points.

Midsomer Norton is served by local bus routes that connect to nearby towns and villages. While direct access to every trailhead by public transport might vary, buses can get you close to the town center, from where many cycling routes are easily accessible.

The routes vary in length, catering to different preferences. You can find shorter, easy loops around 17-20 km, such as the Radstock Pit Wheel – Colliers Way loop. Longer, more challenging routes can extend to over 50 km, like the Dundas Aqueduct – Avoncliff Aqueduct loop.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.58 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes, the beautiful Somerset countryside, and the historical points of interest along the way, such as the aqueducts and old railway lines.