The best traffic-free bike rides around Heytesbury
4.7
(16)
170
riders
26
rides
Gravel biking around Heytesbury offers a diverse landscape characterized by varied surfaces, including dirt, tarmac, and gravel, suitable for different fitness levels. The region features prominent natural elements such as the Great Ridge, ancient woodlands like Longleat Forest, and sections of the vast Salisbury Plain. Riders can expect a mix of fast, flat sections on old Roman roads and challenging segments with significant elevation changes and singletrack paths. The area also encompasses the scenic Wylye Valley, providing opportunities for quieter rides.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Heytesbury
- The most popular no traffic gravel bike trail is Great Ridge Gravel Trail – Woodland Singletrack Path loop from Heytesbury, a 24.3 miles (39.1 km) trail that takes 2 hours 54 minutes to complete. This route offers a mix of woodland singletrack and varied gravel surfaces.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Heaven's Gate Viewpoint – Shearwater Lake loop from Heytesbury, a difficult 25.6 miles (41.2 km) path. This route provides scenic views from Heaven's Gate and passes by Shearwater Lake.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Hindon Village – Fonthill Arch loop from Heytesbury, a 18.9 miles (30.4 km) trail leading through villages and past architectural features, often completed in about 2 hours 2 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Heytesbury is defined by ancient Roman roads, dense woodlands, and the open landscapes of Salisbury Plain. The network offers options for both moderate and more challenging ability levels.
- The routes in Heytesbury are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from around 15 reviews. More than 150 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Heytesbury's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
5.0
(1)
8
riders
39.1km
02:54
440m
440m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
41.2km
02:59
550m
550m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
riders
30.4km
02:02
390m
390m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
29.2km
01:50
310m
310m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
39.1km
02:20
400m
390m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Not Road bike suitable. Punctures likey. Verry muddy. MTB/Gravel bike fine.
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Path unsuitable for Road bikes/Tyres. Gravel bike and MTB fine. High risk of punctures and muddy.
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Shear Water is an artificial lake created as part of the Longleat Estate. It's filled by a tributary of the River Wylye. It's a popular fishing destination.
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Stunning, nice gently rolling gravel road with climb and descent options. If approaching from the east or the west (i.e. trying to stay on the hill to connect to Grovelly or Monkton Deverill) please be aware that the byways entering are not so much fun as the wood itself.
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Cross the busy A350 to enter the organically farmed Pertwood Estate is to leave the frenetic 20th century behind and enter a magical world where nature rules
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Who says England doesn't have gravel? (just ignore the Pertwood section). Sherrington wood/Great Ridge is a bit lifeless compared to Grovelly wood over the way, but offers a more durable surface to spin through.
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While it is a gradual descent it remains pretty pedally for the first hundred metres. The rut isn't actually that deep its just hard to get going initially. Longer than expected. Get a bit of speed up and you'll fly through it. Only attempt this West-East or you'll be cursing your route planning. Couldn't see the track to the north so had to cross the road, nice easy drop off to get you going on the other side.
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Worth it for the road through Great Ridge but ultimately this isn't great riding. No alternative though so enjoy the mouthful of flies.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Heytesbury?
There are over 25 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Heytesbury. These routes are designed to keep you away from busy roads, offering a peaceful and scenic riding experience through Wiltshire's diverse landscapes.
What is the general difficulty level of the no-traffic gravel trails in Heytesbury?
The no-traffic gravel trails around Heytesbury offer a good mix of challenges. While there is one easy route, the majority are classified as moderate (13 routes) or difficult (12 routes). This means you'll find everything from rolling paths to more demanding sections with significant elevation changes, especially in areas like the Great Ridge.
Are there any circular no-traffic gravel routes from Heytesbury?
Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Heytesbury are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An excellent example is the Great Ridge Gravel Trail – Woodland Singletrack Path loop from Heytesbury, which offers varied terrain and beautiful scenery.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these no-traffic gravel bike trails?
You can expect a diverse range of landscapes. Trails often combine dirt, tarmac, and gravel surfaces, taking you through ancient woodlands like Longleat Forest, along the prominent Great Ridge with its old Roman roads, and into the scenic Wylye Valley. Some routes might even skirt the vast Salisbury Plain, offering open spaces and historical views.
Are there any specific routes that offer quiet roads and valley views?
Absolutely. For quiet roads and picturesque valley views, consider the Great Ridge – Wylye Valley Quiet Road loop from Heytesbury. Another great option is the Wylye Valley Quiet Road – View of Wylye Valley loop from Heytesbury, both designed to showcase the tranquil beauty of the Wylye Valley.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along the no-traffic gravel routes?
While riding the no-traffic gravel trails, you might encounter several points of interest. For example, the Heaven's Gate Viewpoint – Shearwater Lake loop from Heytesbury takes you past the stunning Heaven's Gate Sculpture, Longleat. Other routes may pass by historical sites like Westbury White Horse and Bratton Camp, or offer views of charming churches such as St James' Church, Bratton.
Are there any routes that pass by lakes or water features?
Yes, the Heaven's Gate Viewpoint – Shearwater Lake loop from Heytesbury is a great option if you're looking to ride near water. This route includes scenic sections around Shearwater Lake, offering beautiful lakeside views.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the no-traffic trails in Heytesbury?
The no-traffic gravel trails around Heytesbury are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the peacefulness of riding away from traffic, and the stunning natural beauty of the ancient woodlands and open plains.
Are there any longer no-traffic gravel routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders looking for a longer challenge, routes like the Heaven's Gate Viewpoint – Shearwater Lake loop from Heytesbury cover over 40 km with significant elevation, offering a demanding yet rewarding experience on traffic-free paths.
Can I find routes that include singletrack sections?
Yes, some of the no-traffic gravel routes, particularly those venturing into ancient woodlands like Longleat Forest, feature exciting singletrack paths. The Great Ridge Gravel Trail – Woodland Singletrack Path loop from Heytesbury is a prime example, incorporating these technical sections for an added thrill.
Are there any routes that offer views from higher elevations?
Many routes around Heytesbury offer fantastic views from higher ground. The Great Ridge itself provides elevated sections with panoramic vistas. The Heaven's Gate Viewpoint – Shearwater Lake loop from Heytesbury is specifically named for its viewpoint, offering expansive scenes of the surrounding landscape.
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