Cycling in Wiltshire
Exploring Wiltshire on two wheels is one of the best ways to really experience what the county has to offer. Extending in the North to Malmesbury, to the outskirts of Bath, Frome and Gillingham to the West, to Cranborne Chase AONB in the South and to Marlborough, Salisbury and Amesbury in the East – there are so many varied landscapes and terrain to cycle through in Wiltshire.
From Mere in the South West of the country, there are so many beautiful places within reach on a bicycle. These include riding from Stourton through to Gasper and Penselwood, past National Trust Stourhead’s lake and gardens.
If you have a mountain or gravel bike, you can take the bridleways through the forests surrounding King Alfred’s Tower, with a very steep climb up from Hardway to the East! The Alpine Coffee Co are located near the Tower, whilst Stourhead itself has a tearoom by the lake with outdoor seating.
The looping cycle route from Mere to Maiden Bradley and around the various Deverills; Longbridge Deverill, Hill Deverill, Brixton Deverill, Monkton Deverill and Kingston Deverill, is scenic – with one climb between Kingston Deverill and Mere, providing amazing views to the South and Shaftesbury.
You can also ride through the Longleat Estate, taking in the historic house, as well as Horningsham, Heaven’s Gate and Lake Shearwater. Not far to the North is Frome, a market town with a plethora of fantastic shops, cafes and a monthly market (a highly recommended visit!). There is an excellent bike shop here, Pronto, with a café that is well worth a detour to.
Imber village, only open at certain times of the year, can be accessed from Warminster. Bring a bike with fairly chunky or puncture proof tyres to explore the military landscape and visit the old church to find out more about the history of the lost village.
The North of the country is home to Wiltshire’s eight white horses. All can be linked together in one long day out on the bike, including Westbury, Cherhill, Marlborough, Alton Barnes, Hackpen, Broad Town, Pewsey and Devizes.
Whilst in Devizes, why not go and explore Caen Hill Locks – stopping for an ice cream at the lock café with fabulous views in both directions. North of Malmesbury is the Cotswold Water Park, with excellent cycling and beautiful views over the various lakes.
Heading towards the East of the county, Avebury is a must visit to see the Neolithic and Bronze Age ceremonial sites. Make sure you bring a bike lock so you can go and explore these on foot!
The South East of the county is home to Salisbury and the Wylye valley. This provides a beautiful rolling road through various small villages, with a steep climb up and over the hills at Wylye, or heading East into Salisbury.
Finally, to the South you can find challenging climbs around Tollard Royal, Bowerchalke, Alvediston and the surrounds of Cranborne Chase.
You will be spoilt for choice with the variety of on and off road riding in Wiltshire, whichever part of the county you find yourself in. Why not choose to stay at The Dog House in Mere, complete with secure bike storage and cycle route recommendations!
