The best cycling routes around Shepton Mallet
3.8
(9)
136
riders
26
rides
Touring cycling around Shepton Mallet offers diverse landscapes, from the flat, wildlife-rich Avalon Marshes to the challenging, hilly terrain of the Mendip Hills. The region features a growing network of cycle routes, including traffic-free greenways converted from disused railway lines. These paths connect cyclists to natural features and historical attractions, providing varied experiences for different skill levels.
Best touring cycling routes around Shepton Mallet
- The most popular touring cycling route is Radstock & Mells loop from Shepton Mallet, a 28.1 miles (45.3 km) trail that takes 3 hours 1 minute to complete, featuring varied terrain and elevation changes.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Wells Cathedral – Willow Walk loop from Shepton Mallet, a moderate 41.6 miles (67.0 km) path that explores the surrounding countryside and historic sites.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Wells Cathedral Clock – Wells Cathedral loop from Shepton Mallet, a 12.0 miles (19.4 km) trail leading through the local area, often completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Shepton Mallet is defined by the flat landscapes of the Avalon Marshes, the dramatic Mendip Hills, and traffic-free greenways. The network offers options for different ability levels, from leisurely rides to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Shepton Mallet are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.8 stars from over 5 reviews. More than 150 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Shepton Mallet's varied terrain.
Last updated: November 3, 2026
4.0
(1)
14
riders
45.3km
03:02
570m
570m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(1)
10
riders
67.1km
04:06
360m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
3.5
(2)
14
riders
19.4km
01:17
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.0
(1)
10
riders
42.9km
02:38
330m
330m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
13
riders
98.5km
06:23
1,170m
1,170m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Tips from the Community
Nestled in Somerset, The Bishop's Palace & Gardens is a remarkable 13th-century medieval residence that has served as the home of the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years. Surrounded by magnificent stone ramparts, the estate is perhaps most famous for its picturesque, swan-inhabited moat, which is fed by natural thermal springs. Visitors love strolling along the shaded, tree-lined paths beside the water, where the resident mute swans are famously trained to ring a bell near the gatehouse when they are hungry for a snack. Crossing the drawbridge leads you into 14 acres of tranquil, beautifully manicured grounds. Highlights include the meditative, crystal-clear well pools that gave the historic city of Wells its name, vibrant herbaceous borders, and the romantic, ivy-clad ruins of the medieval Great Hall. Inside, the palace seamlessly blends centuries of ecclesiastical history with quiet elegance. It is a wonderfully peaceful destination that invites visitors to slow down, explore centuries of heritage, and enjoy a quintessential slice of English history.
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the City Arms is a charming and traditional public house conveniently located right on High Street in the historic heart of Wells. Housed in a building with plenty of character, it offers a warm, welcoming retreat for locals and visitors alike after a day of exploring the nearby cathedral or market square. Historic Setting: Located in a historic property along one of the city's main thoroughfares, the pub retains a cozy, authentic British atmosphere with plenty of traditional charm. Drinks & Socializing: It serves as a popular social gathering spot, offering a solid selection of cask ales, beers, ciders, and wines, making it an ideal place to unwind. Central Location: Its prime High Street position makes it an easy stop to pop into while wandering around England's smallest city. Victorian Roots: Built in the Victorian era, the property was originally constructed to maintain law and order in England's smallest city, complete with holding cells that have since been repurposed into parts of the pub's unique interior. Architectural Character: Over the years, the building transitioned from a center of local justice into a beloved community hub, retaining much of its imposing, solid stone architecture and historic charm. Modern Hospitality: Today, it blends its storied past with a relaxed atmosphere, offering visitors a chance to dine and socialize in rooms that once echoed with courtroom trials and local policing.
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The concrete outlet tower serves as the central control point for the reservoir's water supply. Connected by a bridge to the main dam, the tower houses sluice gates and valves that regulate the flow and distribution of water to the River Chew and the local water supply.
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Always lovely to see these and walk up to the small hidden path at the top which takes you onto the road. If you are lucky sometimes you can hear the music students practising as you walk by.
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Great stretch of road, I know I am nearly at Bristol, or just getting started. Either way I cannot help but stop and enjoy the view, just stunning.
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A great climb, pure type 2 fun. It's brutal and never-ending!
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In the valley below Great Elm, a charming bridge crosses the Mells River, with a bench on the riverbank offering a peaceful spot to enjoy the views or take a refreshing dip. A layby on one side of the river provides convenient parking if you'd like to start your journey here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of landscapes can I expect to cycle through around Shepton Mallet?
The region offers a diverse cycling experience. To the south, you'll find the flat, wildlife-rich Avalon Marshes with quiet lanes and dedicated cycle paths, perfect for leisurely rides and enjoying 'big skies'. To the north, the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) presents a more challenging terrain with hills, gorges like Cheddar Gorge, and stunning views.
How many touring cycling routes are available in the Shepton Mallet area?
There are over 35 touring cycling routes around Shepton Mallet, catering to various skill levels and preferences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.8 stars.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or casual riders?
Yes, while many routes offer a moderate challenge, there are at least 2 easy touring cycling routes available. These are generally found in the flatter areas like the Avalon Marshes, providing a gentle introduction to the region's beauty.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see along the cycling routes?
Many routes pass by significant historical and natural sites. You could cycle towards Wells Cathedral, explore the dramatic Ebbor Gorge, or discover ancient sites like Priddy Nine Barrows. The area also features parts of the Colliers Way cycle path.
Are there any traffic-free cycling paths or greenways in the region?
Yes, a significant draw for touring cyclists is the transformation of old railway lines into traffic-free paths. The Windsor Hill Greenway, part of the former Somerset and Dorset Joint Railway, is open to cyclists. The Strawberry Line is also progressively opening, offering a largely traffic-free route with no steep gradients, ideal for a wide range of cyclists.
What is the longest touring cycling route from Shepton Mallet?
One of the longer and more challenging routes is the Chew Valley Lake – Chew Valley Lake loop from Shepton Mallet, which covers approximately 98 kilometers (61 miles) and features significant elevation changes.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Shepton Mallet?
Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Radstock & Mells loop from Shepton Mallet is a popular circular option, offering varied terrain.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Shepton Mallet?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.8 stars from over 8 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from the tranquil Avalon Marshes to the dramatic Mendip Hills, and the growing network of traffic-free greenways that connect natural wonders with historical sites.
Can I access historical towns and sites via cycling routes from Shepton Mallet?
Absolutely. Cycling routes often lead to or pass by notable historical and cultural attractions. Destinations like Wells, Glastonbury, and Farleigh Hungerford Castle are accessible, allowing you to combine your ride with cultural exploration. For instance, the Glastonbury High Street – Wells Cathedral loop from Shepton Mallet offers a journey through historic areas.
What kind of challenges can I expect on the more difficult touring routes?
The more difficult routes, particularly those venturing into the Mendip Hills, feature significant elevation gains and descents. For example, the Radstock & Mells loop from Shepton Mallet includes over 560 meters of climbing, providing a good workout for experienced touring cyclists.
Are there routes that connect to the National Cycle Network?
Yes, parts of the National Cycle Network, specifically Routes 3, 26, and 33, pass through the nearby Avalon Marshes. These routes connect towns like Wells, Glastonbury, Bridgwater, Taunton, and Castle Cary, offering extended touring possibilities.
Is there a route that visits Wells Cathedral?
Yes, the Wells Cathedral – Willow Walk loop from Shepton Mallet is a moderate route that explores the surrounding countryside and includes a visit to the historic Wells Cathedral.
Most popular routes around Shepton Mallet
Most popular attractions around Shepton Mallet
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