Chard to Ilminster
Go to online mappingFrom - to: Chard to Ilminster (and Bridgwater)
Type: Chard to Ilminster mainly traffic-free, then minor roads to Bridgwater
Surface: Mostly tarmac
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From Chard to Ilminster, the route follows a purpose built railway path which is largely traffic free, direct and suitable for walking and cycling. The route starts in Stringfellow Park in Chard and takes you into Ilminster's town centre.
A popular ride with locals and visitors, 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.
From Ilminster, you can continue further to Bridgwater on level minor roads and then beside the River Parrett. You'll pass National Trust property Barrington Court, Kingsbury Episcopi, Langport and the ruins of Muchelney Abbey. The Chard, Ilminster and Bridgwater route is part of the Wessex Way which, when fully developed, will stretch from Weston-super-Mare to Seaton and Lyme Regis.
Need more information? Download a free cycle map for Chard, Ilminster and Bridgwater.
Local attractions:
- Burrow Mump, Burrowbridge
- Muchelney Abbey
- Barrington Court
- Somerset Cider Brandy Company, Kingsbury Episcopi
- Old Chard Canal Nature Reserve
Bike hire: