This Hillesley route is another classic Cotswold Cross country route taking in some stunning countryside. Situated on the Western edge of the Cotswolds near to the Cotswold escarpment, or the Cotswold Edge.
South of Wotton-under-Edge this route almost meets the North Nibley route at its northern most point and could easily be extended on to this or even Dursley and Uley.
The route is a mix of gravel tracks through the rolling Cotswold hills and rocky descents. The rocky descent from near the Somerset Monument joins the Cotswold way. The climb up to Tresham is classic rolling hills up to and the view distracts from the climb. From the top you can look back to the top of the first descent.
A particular highlight is the horse button gate when the route goes through the grounds of the big house at Ozleworth. Powered gates are always easier than opening or climbing over, the detour off the driveway for all of 100m is interesting, keeping the serfs away from the house.
The final descents from Alderley is another rocky one taking you back onto the track we'd previously climbed up, from here its a road spin back to the start.
The local pub is the Fleece Inn. In July 2012, The Fleece Inn, after a short period of closure, was re-opened by the community. It was bought and re-furbished by The Hillesley Community Pub Limited which has over 120 local shareholders. This is an idea starting point for the ride, although if it's not open Dinneywicks in Kinswood makes for an alternative, if the parking options are not as plentiful.
Hillesley Mountain Bike Route
| Distance | 20km |
| Time | 2-3hrs |
| Climbing | 450m |
| Starting location | Hillesley / Kinswood |
| Pubs, cafes | Fleece Inn / Dinneywicks |
| Parking | On road |
| Route | View route on Strava View route on Komoot View route on Garmin Download GPX |
This ride is form our wednesday night series for more rides and routes take a look at our wednesday night rides.
Did you ride this route? Comment here!