The best traffic-free bike rides around Buckland St Mary

There are over 120 touring cycling routes around Buckland St Mary that focus on minimizing traffic, offering a wide variety of options for exploring the Blackdown Hills AONB.

The Blackdown Hills offer beautiful cycling conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with fewer visitors than peak summer. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for potentially wet conditions and shorter daylight hours. The rural nature of the area generally means lower traffic levels year-round, especially on the routes curated for minimal vehicle encounters.

Yes, there are 24 easy touring cycling routes around Buckland St Mary designed for a more relaxed experience. These routes often feature mostly paved surfaces and gentler gradients, making them suitable for beginners or families looking for a leisurely ride. While specific family-friendly routes aren't explicitly listed here, the general low-traffic nature of these easy tours makes them a good starting point.

The routes around Buckland St Mary traverse the beautiful Blackdown Hills AONB, offering sights like rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and expansive views. You might encounter natural highlights such as Otterhead Lakes, the impressive Giant Oak Tree, and various viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside, including the Mendip Hills and Glastonbury Tor on clear days.

Absolutely. A notable historical site is Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort, a fascinating ancient earthwork that later became a Norman motte-and-bailey castle. It's managed by Forestry England and offers amazing views. Other points of interest in the wider area include Taunton Castle and Dillington House.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 200 ratings. Reviewers often praise the serene, rural landscapes, the quiet roads, and the opportunity to explore the picturesque Blackdown Hills away from heavy traffic. The varied terrain, from gentle climbs to more challenging ascents, also receives positive feedback.

Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, there are 34 difficult touring routes available. These routes often feature significant elevation gains and longer distances. An example is the Candlelight Inn – Thurlbear Wood Bridleway loop from Staple Hill Car Park, which covers over 46 km with substantial climbing.

Many routes, such as the Middlewood Climb – Forest Dirt Path loop, start from locations like Staple Hill Car Park, which provides convenient access. Given the rural nature of the Blackdown Hills, smaller car parks or roadside parking might be available near other trailheads. Always check local signage for parking regulations.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Forest Dirt Path – Castle Neroche Woods loop is a challenging option that begins and ends near Buckland St Mary itself.

While Buckland St Mary village itself has seen some local amenity closures, the wider Blackdown Hills area offers several good pubs and restaurants. Many routes pass through or near other villages where you can find places to stop for refreshments. It's advisable to check opening times in advance, especially in more remote areas.

The terrain in the Blackdown Hills is varied, characterized by rolling hills and wooded areas. While many routes feature mostly paved surfaces, you can expect some climbs and descents. The 'no traffic' focus means you'll often be on quieter country lanes, bridleways, or forest tracks, providing a mix of surfaces suitable for touring bicycles.