The best traffic-free bike rides around Buckland St Mary

There are over 15 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Buckland St Mary, offering a variety of distances and elevations within the Blackdown Hills AONB. These routes are specifically curated to provide a peaceful cycling experience away from heavy vehicle traffic.

The routes in the Blackdown Hills AONB feature varied terrain, from rolling hills to more challenging climbs. You'll encounter undulating landscapes characteristic of the region, with some routes offering significant elevation gains, such as the Taunton Flyer Dakota route with over 1000m of ascent, and others with gentler slopes.

Yes, experienced cyclists will find several challenging no-traffic routes. For instance, the Taunton Flyer Dakota route covers nearly 97 km with over 1000m of elevation gain, while the Thurlbear Wood Bridleway loop is another difficult option with similar elevation.

While many routes involve some climbing due to the hilly nature of the Blackdown Hills, there are moderate options that can be suitable for beginners with a reasonable fitness level. These routes focus on quiet, paved surfaces. You can find several moderate routes, such as the Taunton Flyer Spitfire route, which is around 66 km with 800m of elevation.

Many routes pass by or offer views of interesting landmarks. You might encounter historical sites like Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort, which offers elevated viewpoints, or natural features like Otterhead Lakes. The Wellington Monument loop is a great option to see the iconic monument.

As Buckland St Mary is a small, rural village, parking is generally available in the village itself or at designated points along some of the routes. Always check local signage for any restrictions. Many cyclists also choose to park in nearby towns like Chard or Ilminster, which are only six miles away and offer more amenities.

These routes are primarily designed for road cycling on quiet, paved country lanes. While they avoid heavy traffic, they are not dedicated traffic-free paths. Families with older children comfortable cycling on roads with occasional vehicle access may find them suitable, but younger children might prefer dedicated cycle paths found in broader Somerset networks. Always assess the route's specific characteristics for your family's comfort level.

Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes around Buckland St Mary are circular, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location. Examples include the Wellington Monument – View South Over Hemyock loop and the Café May Day Store – Wellington Monument loop.

Absolutely. For those looking for longer rides, routes like the Taunton Flyer Dakota route span nearly 100 km, offering extensive cycling through the Blackdown Hills on quiet roads. The Thurlbear Wood Bridleway loop is another long option at over 90 km.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty of the Blackdown Hills AONB, the tranquility of the quiet rural roads, and the varied terrain that offers both scenic views and challenging climbs away from heavy traffic.

While Buckland St Mary itself has limited amenities, the wider area around the Blackdown Hills offers options. The local inn, La Campagna (The Eagle Inn), is just outside the village, and there are other good pubs and local restaurants in nearby towns and villages that can be incorporated into your route for post-ride refreshments.