The best traffic-free bike rides around Coln St. Dennis
4.7
(221)
1,445
riders
12
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Coln St. Dennis traverse the serene Coln Valley within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills, traditional agricultural fields, and the meandering River Coln. This region offers varied terrain, including mostly paved surfaces and some unpaved segments, suitable for different cycling preferences. The area features expansive views of the Cotswolds Valley and charming villages built with honey-colored Cotswold stone.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Coln…
Last updated: November 1, 2026
2.5
(2)
10
riders
36.5km
02:36
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(2)
19
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
7
riders
28.6km
01:43
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
5
riders
22.0km
01:25
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
3
riders
25.3km
01:50
370m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful village but extremely busy with tourists. There are many more beautiful villages in the region without all the people.
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At the General Audience on June 21, 2006, the then Holy Father briefly summarized two biblical accounts that illustrate the special position of James the Greater, the patron saint of this church, among the disciples: "He was privileged, along with Peter and John, to participate in the hour of Jesus' agony in the Garden of Gethsemane and in the event of Jesus' transfiguration. (...) In the first instance, James, together with the other two apostles, experienced the glory of the Lord; he saw him speaking with Moses and Elijah; he saw the radiance of divine glory shine forth in Jesus; in the second instance, he stood before suffering and humiliation; he saw with his own eyes how the Son of God humbled himself and was obedient unto death. The second experience was certainly an opportunity for him to mature in faith and to correct the one-sided, triumphalistic interpretation of the first experience: He had to recognize that the Messiah, whom the Jewish people expected to be a triumphant figure, was in reality not only surrounded by honor and glory, but also of suffering and weakness. The glory of Christ is realized precisely on the cross, in sharing in our sufferings.” (Pope Benedict XVI)
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Marks the junction to take Sherborne St climb towards Bourton on the Water which is a lovely road to take.
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"The Anglican Church of St James at Coln St. Dennis in the Cotswold District of Gloucestershire, England, was built in the 12th century. It is a grade I listed building. The Church of England parish church is dedicated to Saint James the Great. The church was dedicated to Saint Katherine in the 13th century, Saint Dennis in the 18th century, and is believed to have once been dedicated to Saint Kenelm.[2] During the 18th century it may have briefly been dedicated to St Dennis. The central tower had a belfry added in the 15th century. This was rebuilt in 1904 as part of a wider restoration by William Weir the architect for the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings. The parish is part of the Chedworth Yanworth and Stowell Coln Rogers and Coln St Dennis benefice within the Diocese of Gloucester." Source: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Church_of_St_James,_Coln_St._Dennis
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You feel like you've been transported back a few centuries and are reminded of Little Lord Fauntleroy...
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In the middle of a small green area within the village, a cross rises atop a tall stone shaft. However, as hikers notice upon approach, this is by no means a small sacred monument in the sense of the wayside crosses common in some regions. Rather, this monument, like those found in many villages, is dedicated to the memory of the victims of war and tyranny.
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Great bacon rolls! Lovely and peaceful when we visited on a Friday morning
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Coln St. Dennis?
There are around 10 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in the Coln St. Dennis area, offering a variety of experiences through the picturesque Cotswolds. Most of these routes are considered moderate in difficulty, with a few easier options available.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no-traffic cycling routes?
The routes around Coln St. Dennis feature the classic rolling hills of the Cotswolds, providing varied terrain. While many segments are on quiet, paved country lanes, some routes incorporate unpaved sections and gravel tracks, such as the Daglingworth Gravel Track, for those seeking a more adventurous off-road experience. The tranquil River Coln often features, with peaceful riverside paths.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic cycling routes near Coln St. Dennis?
Yes, there are several routes suitable for families, particularly those looking for easier rides. While most routes are moderate, there are 3 easy routes available. These typically stick to quieter country lanes and offer a gentle introduction to touring cycling in the Cotswolds. Look for routes with less elevation gain for a more relaxed family outing.
What are some notable attractions or villages I can visit along these cycling routes?
Many routes pass through or near charming Cotswold villages and historical sites. You can cycle past the iconic Arlington Row, Bibury, or visit St Mary's Church, Bibury. Further afield, you might encounter the ancient Cirencester Amphitheatre or the historical Chedworth Roman Villa. The village of Coln St. Dennis itself, with its traditional honey-colored stone houses, is a picturesque stop.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the area are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the moderate route, Country Lanes in the Cotswolds – Arlington Row, Bibury loop from Northleach, which offers a scenic tour through the countryside.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Coln St. Dennis?
The touring cycling routes around Coln St. Dennis are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 150 reviews. Reviewers often praise the serene, traffic-free nature of the country lanes, the stunning Cotswold scenery, and the charming villages encountered along the way. The varied terrain, from gentle riverside paths to rolling hills, is also frequently highlighted.
Are there any routes that offer expansive views of the Cotswolds Valley?
Absolutely. The region is known for its breathtaking vistas. Some routes, like the View from Bourton Hill – Bourton-on-the-Water village loop from Northleach, specifically feature viewpoints such as the View of the Cotswolds Valley, providing fantastic scenic stops to appreciate the wider landscape.
Can I find routes that connect to longer cycle networks?
Yes, some routes in the area can connect you to broader cycling infrastructure. For instance, you might find sections that link to the NCN Route 45: South Cerney to Cricklade, offering opportunities to extend your ride on dedicated cycleways.
What is the typical distance and duration for these no-traffic touring routes?
The routes vary in length and duration. For example, the Lynwood & Co Northleach – Sherborne Brook loop from Northleach is around 22 km and takes approximately 1.5-2 hours. Longer routes, such as the Arlington Row, Bibury – Bibury Bridge loop from Coln St. Dennis, can be up to 48 km and take 3-4 hours, depending on your pace and stops.
Are there any historical earthworks or geological features to see on these rides?
Yes, the area is rich in historical and geological interest. Routes may pass by ancient earthworks like prehistoric burial mounds or geological points of interest such as the Daglingworth Gravel Track, which is near Daglingworth Quarry, known for its geological features. These add a unique historical depth to the natural scenery.
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Most popular attractions around Coln St. Dennis
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