stocklinch shepherds hut

Being on the edge of the Somerset Levels you can opt to cycle along the gentle flat lanes or alternatively take a slightly more strenuous route up into the hills. Either way the cycling is extremely pleasant, taking you through pretty villages & market towns, passing through unspoilt rural scenes with expansive views along the way.

 

The great thing about cycling is you really feel you've well and truly earnt your treat! And there are plenty of tempting refreshment stops to be had along the way including the wonderful The Feed Station only  a short cycle from here along quiet sunken lanes passing cider orchards on the way. Heading in the other direction you can incorporate refuelling stops at the Curry Mallet Tea Garden, The Stable Cafe in Fivehead, Living Pretty Tea Rooms in Curry Rivel, The Kitchen at the Wharf and The Bakery Bridge Canteen both in Langport, Monks Yard Cafe and The Kitchen at Jordans Courtyard on the other side of Ilminster. All of these are no more than a 30 to 45 minute cycle ride away. But if you were thinking of heading further afield then we are very happy to give you other ideas on where to stop for coffee and cake - essentials for any cyclist!  

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If you wanted to give yourselves a bit more of a challenge then we are on the National Cycle Route Network 33 which passes directly through Stocklinch. There is much to experience along the way from reminders of the Second World War (the Taunton Stop Line Defenses), to a bird watching haven at Chard Reservoir, home to a rich variety of waterfowl, woodland birds and birds of prey . Continuing on along level minor roads beside the River Parrett, you'll pass National Trust property Barrington Court, Somerset Cider Brandy & Burrow Hill Cider Company at Kingsbury Episcopi, the ruins of Muchelney Abbey and Burrow Mump at Burrowbridge, of King Alfred the Great Fame, finishing up in Bridgwater. 

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Also passing through Stocklinch is the South Somerset 80 Mile Cycle Route. This is a lovely way to explore the south somerset gentle hills and vales, intriguing lowland moors and the hamstone villages  and historic market towns in this very prettiest and hidden corner of Somerset. And if you can't manage it in a oner than you can turn it into shorter stages with circular routes. 

 

If you're tempeted by any of this but don't have a bike then bike hire can be arranged through nearby Langport and River Parrett Visitor Centre Bike Hire.

 

This is just a flavour of the cycling to be had from the steps of the hut. Matt is a keen cyclist and will be very happy to share any routes and pitstop destinations with you if you are looking for more ideas.

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And finally let's not forget that the other wonderful thing about staying here on a cycling break is you can return to the hot tub at the end of a hard day and soak in warm water easing your aching, tired muscles - it doesn't get much better!

 

Let your "Tour de South Somerset" begin with a stay here - Bon vacances!