108 | Cycling World
Cycling in Gloucestershire
An area of outstanding natural beauty
By Emma Horstead @ whatemmafound
Gloucestershire , centred at the heart of the Cotswolds , has a vast network of country lanes , farm tracks and rolling hills . Picturesque in every way , it is the ideal spot to head out onto the open road and soak up that summer sun .
For a full day out on the bike the route takes in all that �loucestershire has to offer with some coffee and cake for good measure . Winding through 172km ( 107 miles ) of the countryside from the Spa town of Cheltenham , running alongside the River Severn towards the Welsh border , the loop takes in 1340m of elevation along the way , steadily testing the muscles . Rolling through classic Cotswold lanes , this route is one not to be missed .
Positioned in northern Gloucestershire , Cheltenham is a glorious town filled with sho�s , caf�s and history . �eing a festival town , there is plenty to see and do . Literature , music and science ; there is something for all . It is also the ideal location to start your ride . � short five-minute ride will take you out of town and into the beautiful rolling lanes of the county .
Staying in town offers wine bars and great food on the promenade , or head out of town to local countryside ��� ’ s offering all of those creature comforts . The haunted village of Prestbury or the charming Winchcombe , home to Sudeley Castle , are perfect for little getaways .
Set out early on the day of your ride , as this will give you plenty of time to take in the sights with some lunch at just over half way . Don ’ t forget your camera as there are plenty of photo opportunities . Passing historic buildings and stunning views you are sure to want to make the most of all �loucestershire has to offer .
From Cheltenham , head west through Elmstone Hardwick and onto Coombe Hill . The twisting o�en roads flow through small hamlets and rolling country views . At Combe Hill take a right at the tra�c lights and follow signs for Apperley . After the bridge crossing , take a left down Ham Road . Segment hunters might like to make a bid for glory as the long sector is smooth , flat and fast . Catching your breath , it is here you will begin your journey towards the magical Forest of Dean . The forest , spanning 204sq miles of Gloucestershire , is made up of over 20 million trees , a network of caves , as well as numerous protected species including the rare Peregrine Falcon .
After passing through the villages of Hartpury and High Leadon , you arrive in the market town of Newent . Complete with a rickety Tudor appearance , the village is known for its annual Onion Fayre each September . The next village of Kilcot marks the start of a 25km section of climbing . The lactate generating roads of the Forest of Dean will get hearts beating as you take in the cosy cottages and quiet way of life contrasting to your heavy legs and fast breath . The climb ends in sleepy Mitcheldean as you are rewarded with a smooth