Best Cycling Roads In The Cotswolds
Nestled in the heart of England, the Cotswolds is an area of outstanding natural beauty. The rolling hills and picturesque countryside make it a cyclists’ paradise. If you’re a cycling enthusiast looking for a challenge, you’ll find plenty of hills and winding roads to explore. In this blog post, we’re going to take a deep dive into some of the best cycling roads the Cotswolds has to offer, so get your bike and let’s get started!
Cleeve Hill
Cleeve Hill offers stunning views of the Cotswolds and is well-known for being one of the highest points in the Cotswolds. The hill can be challenging for cyclists, but it's well worth the climb to enjoy the panoramic views. You can cycle from Winchcombe which is a picturesque tow that starts the climb with a gentle gradient before getting more challenging. You'll find plenty of opportunities to take in the scenery and catch your breath as you go up the hill.
Broadway Tower
Another hill that is worth exploring is Broadway Tower. It’s hard to miss this iconic landmark as it offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area. The tower is located on top of a steep hill, and the ride up there can be exhilarating. You’ll find yourself biking through idyllic countryside lanes with plenty of beautiful and quaint houses along the way. The reward at the end is worth the effort as the views from the top are truly breathtaking.
Chipping Campden
Chipping Campden is a charming town wedged between rolling hillsides. It offers a mix of challenging roads and scenic routes that make it a perfect cycling destination for beginners and experts. The ride from Campden to Dovers Hill is a classic Cotswold route that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Along the way, you'll encounter narrow lanes, hills, and a mix of road surfaces that will test your biking skills.
Stow-On-The-Wold
Stow-on-the-Wold is more than just a beautiful town; it boasts some excellent cycling routes. The hill climb from Bourton-on-the-Water to Stow-on-the-Wold is a must for any serious cyclist. The hills come thick and fast on this route, and you'll find yourself constantly peddling to keep up the momentum. However, the views at the top of each hill make the climb worthwhile.
North Leigh
North Leigh offers incredible cycling routes that cater to both beginners and experts. One of the most popular routes in this area is the ride to Wychwood Forest. You'll find miles of quiet country roads and wooded areas that make for an enjoyable and scenic cycling experience. The route will take you through a mix of villages, fields, and woods, with plenty of quaint country pubs to recharge your batteries - perfect territory for a do-it-all Gravel Bike.
The Cotswolds is a cycling paradise with beautiful scenery, challenging hills, and winding country roads. Whether you're a beginner or an expert cyclist, there is something for everyone in this area. So, grab your bike, and head over to the Cotswolds to experience some of the best cycling roads in the UK. The hills may be a challenge, but the stunning views will undoubtedly make it worth it!