Vibrant cities and emerald hills – West Country Way

Peaceful hedge-lined country lanes winding deep into rural Somerset and Devonshire, sweeping moors stretching across the horizon, and cosy pubs serving local ales and fresh fish – cycling the West Country Way from Bristol to Bude is a wild adventure.

This Collection showcases the best corners of South-West England in seven stages. You will cycle 219 miles (353 km) along beautiful lanes and traffic-free paths that take you through wooded countryside and emerald hills dotted with historic villages. Canal paths are the closest you will find to gravel on your journey, so any road bike is suitable.

Covering between 19 miles (32 km) and 43 miles (69 km), each route in this Collection is suitable for all levels of riders. If you enjoy longer days in the saddle, you can easily combine the routes together. You will finish each stage in a town or village with plenty of accommodation options to ensure you are well-rested for your adventure.

Although you will pass through the picturesque Mendip Hills, most of the climbs are manageable and large sections follow flat canal paths: you will ascend 3450 meters (11,318 feet) over seven days. With komoot in your pocket and signposts in both directions, you will also find the route easy to follow.

Starting in Bristol, a colourful city with a thriving cultural scene, you will mostly follow the National Cycle Network Route 3 as it leads through quirky villages and towns like Glastonbury with historical abbeys and Wells with its intricate gothic cathedral. After crossing the majestic Mendips, you will cross into Exmoor National Park with its misty moors and moody landscapes. Here, you can enjoy spectacular starry nights far away from civilization.

Your adventure will not only take you through gorgeous scenery inland but also dramatic coastal landscapes. Devon is known for its stretches of rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and pretty fishing villages. With Roman ruins, medieval manor houses, and industrial relics, you will also be fascinated by the region’s rich history.

To reach the start of your adventure, you can easily take the train to Bristol as the city has regular direct connections cities across the UK. In Bristol, you find will a huge range of accommodation, ranging from youth hostels to five-star hotels.

For more information about the West Country Way, visit: sustrans.org.uk/find-a-route-on-the-national-cycle-network/west-country-way-bristol-to-bude
For train tickets and timetables, visit: thetrainline.com/destinations/trains-to-bristol