Highlight • Trail
Frome Valley Trail
Cycling
5.0
(26)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
June 11, 2021
Cycling
In Notton there is a field prone to flooding which will rarely get iced over in the winter. Local kids have been known to skate there.
November 19, 2022
Cycling
October 17, 2020
Cycling
There can be some significant flooding. Couple of v.short steep sections.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Frome Valley Trail
87.3km
06:04
1,020m
1,020m
The Beaminster, Bridport & Burton Bradstock loop from Dorchester offers a challenging touring cycling experience through West Dorset's Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This difficult route spans 54.2 miles (87.3 km) and features a significant 3348 feet (1021 metres) of elevation gain, making it suitable for cyclists with very good fitness. You will navigate varied landscapes, from rolling countryside to coastal views, with some unpaved segments where you might need to push your bike. The estimated duration for this demanding ride is around 6 hours and 4 minutes.
Planning your visit for this loop means preparing for a hard bike ride. While the research does not specify a trailhead or parking, you should consider starting early to complete the 6-hour and 4-minute journey in daylight. The route is primarily paved, but be ready for some unpaved sections. As it passes through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you can expect well-maintained roads and paths, though specific warnings about seasonal closures or permits are not mentioned. Always check local conditions before you head out.
This touring cycling loop is notable for its demanding nature and continuous immersion in the diverse landscapes of Dorset. You will traverse river valleys like the Frome and Bride, pass through idyllic villages, and encounter ancient historical sites. Near Burton Bradstock, the route offers glimpses of the dramatic Jurassic Coast, including views of Chesil Beach and Golden Cap, the highest point on the south coast. The area is rich in natural beauty, providing a rewarding challenge for experienced cyclists.
3
riders
37.2km
02:39
490m
490m
Embark on the Frome Valley and Cerne Valley Loop, a challenging touring bicycle route spanning 23.1 miles (37.2 km) with a significant 1604 feet (489 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this difficult ride in about 2 hours and 38 minutes. The route immerses you in classic English countryside, following the gentle curves of the Rivers Frome and Cerne through water meadows and past quaint villages. You will traverse chalk downs, offering expansive views, and experience the landscape often referred to as 'Thomas Hardy Country'.
When planning your visit, be aware that some sections of the route are unpaved farm tracks. These can be rough, muddy, and gravelly, especially during winter months. Certain areas are also prone to significant flooding, so you might need to push your bike on some short, steep segments. It is advisable to plan your touring cycling trip accordingly, particularly if you are riding during wetter periods of the year.
A highlight of this loop is the chance to see the iconic Cerne Abbas Giant, an impressive 180-foot-tall figure carved directly into the chalk hillside. This ancient landmark adds a unique historical and cultural dimension to your ride, distinguishing it from other routes in the Dorset National Landscape. The varied terrain, from river valleys to chalk downs, provides a diverse and engaging experience for touring cyclists seeking a robust challenge.
5.0
(6)
45
riders
29.3km
02:01
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 20 m
Weather
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Thursday 14 May
13°C
3°C
22 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 26.0 km/h
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