If you love the countryside and enjoy getting on your bike, these scenic cycling trails in Somerset are for you. We've chosen a mix of coastal, countryside and woodland trails in varying lengths with top tips on where to stop for the best viewpoints, country pubs and picnic spots along the way. 

1. CYCLE THE STRAWBERRY LINE, 11 miles

The Strawberry Line runs from the village of Yatton to the world-famous village of Cheddar, known for its ancient gorge and caves. This route is a mostly level path open to cyclists, walkers, runners and horse riders. The Strawberry Line is so-called because it runs along a now unused Great Western Railway line that transported strawberries from Cheddar from as early as 1869.

Start by Yatton train station and head south to Cheddar by cycling through Congresbury and Axbridge past fields and orchards and along the River Yeo.

There are lovely woodland parts of the route to be enjoyed at Rose Wood and King's Wood, and the Millennium Green at Winscombe is an ideal spot for a picnic.

When you reach Cheddar reservoir you have finished your route, although we recommend you keep cycling to Cheddar Gorge for incredible views.

2. Cycle from Bath to Chippenham, 26 miles

Bath is a beautiful city famous for its Roman Baths and literary links to Jane Austen. This attractive cycle route begins on Pulteney Bridge in Bath and goes along the Kennet and Avon Canal and the River Avon to Bradford-on-Avon. To cycle the route from Bath to Chippenham, follow the river and canal-side National Cycle route 4 from Somerset to Wiltshire.

Carry on along the canal to Semington at which point you should turn north for Melksham. There is a short on-road section from here that leads you past Lacock Abbey and along country lanes on to Notton before you arrive in Chippenham.

Don’t miss a stop for refreshments at the historic George Inn in Lacock Village on West Street, established in 1361 and famous for its medieval open fireplace.

3. Cycle from Bridgwater to Burnham-on-Sea, 17 miles

Cycling to the seaside at Burnham-on-Sea is a perfect way to spend a day knowing you can relax on the sand with a well-deserved ice-cream after your ride.

To cycle to Burnham-on-Sea, follow National Cycle route 33 from Bridgwater to Burnham-on-Sea starting at a quiet section along the River Parrett in Bridgwater. Head towards Chedzoy into the lovely Somerset countryside before joining a stretch along King's Sedgemoor Drain to Bawdrip. This is followed by a short stretch to Cossington that goes through Cossington Park and then a series of country lanes that lead you to East Huntspill with views of the River Huntspill as you ride.

Head through Highbridge towards the mouth of the River Parrett and Burnham-on-Sea. The final section takes you along the river and past the pier to end, quite perfectly, near to the tourist information centre. There are train stations at Bridgwater and Highbridge near Burnham-on-Sea.

4. CYCLE THE Ham Hill Country Park Circular Route, 5 miles

Built on an Iron Age hill fort, Ham Hill Country Park near Yeovil has a wonderful 390 acres of parkland offering amazing views of the Mendip, Quantock and Blackdown Hills, River Kennet Valley and the Dorset Downs.

This circular route is for walkers as well as cyclists and starts in the car park at the western side of the Ham Hill Country Park.

Mountain bikes are recommended for cycling on this route because some parts of the trail can be quite challenging. Less than a mile east of Ham Hill is the 16th century Montacute House and Yeovil Country Park with its woodland trails, waterfalls and lakes.

The Prince of Wales pub right next to the hill has a lovely beer garden with amazing countryside views and is a great place to stop for refreshment.

5. CYCLE THE Great Wood, Quantocks, 2 miles

Great Wood is a large area of woodland in the Quantocks with miles of cycling and walking trails around ancient oaks, firs and spruce and by lovely streams and grassy glades.

Look out for a variety of wildlife including deer, sparrowhawk and nightjar. This is a great woodland trail for mountain biking with miles of wide paths.

You can extend your ride by continuing along the bridleways in Quantock Combe or Seven Wells Wood. The highest point in the Quantock Hills is on the southwestern fringe of the wood at Wills Neck. A wonderful cycling trail for a picnic in nature with beautiful views.

Cycle Route Maps

There’s something so exhilarating about free-wheeling with the wind in your hair around the glorious British countryside, along coastal paths through woodland, on quiet, car-free bike trails. For maps of each cycle route please visit GPS Cycle and Walking Routes.

For other inspiring cycle routes in the beautiful British countryside please visit the best cycling routes in the Cotswolds. 

Where to Stay in Somerset

We recommend a variety of holiday homes in Somerset including stunning Grade II listed cottages and contemporary luxury lodges with hot tubs in the countryside and family-friendly glamping pods near the sea.