The best cycling routes in Puddletown Forest
4.5
(190)
1,975
riders
195
rides
Touring cycling in Puddletown Forest offers a diverse landscape spanning over 740 acres (300 hectares), characterized by a mix of coniferous and broadleaf trees. The forest lies on a ridge between the River Frome and River Piddle valleys, featuring steep-sided valleys and providing scenic views from higher points. A network of bridleways and gravel roads makes the area suitable for touring cycling, with authorized routes providing opportunities to explore its natural beauty.
Best touring cycling routes in Puddletown Forest
- The…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
4
riders
8.99km
00:50
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
19.3km
01:23
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
30
riders
37.5km
02:17
260m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
23
riders
57.5km
03:35
600m
600m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
42.2km
02:42
440m
440m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
What a wonderful place: time seems to have stood still here. While some of the furniture has been reconstructed, it's fortunate that Hardy's house has been so completely preserved: a fascinating journey into the Victorian England of one of the world's leading authors... the room where he wrote many of his poems and novels, an enchanting garden, and even the somewhat quirky "Pet Sematary," where several dogs and cats were buried. So much of the atmosphere is still preserved here: a must-see, ideally with a guided tour: it's worth it.
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Stair Hole is a fascinating and impressive place on the Jurassic Coast in southern England that is definitely worth a visit. The cliffs and rocks that jut out into the sea here are breathtakingly beautiful and provide a dramatic backdrop for photographers and nature lovers. Particularly impressive is the natural rock formation that leads into the water like a staircase (hence the name) – a real highlight for any visitor. The area is perfect for coastal walks, where you can enjoy the fresh sea air and admire the impressive natural surroundings. Stair Hole is a place that combines tranquility and beauty and leaves a lasting impression. An absolute must for anyone who wants to experience the wild beauty of the English coast!
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* Historic Structure: The cottage itself was built in 1800 by Hardy's great-grandfather and has remained largely unaltered since the Hardy family left. It offers a glimpse into 19th-century rural life, with its open hearths, small windows, and stone floors. While the furniture inside isn't original to the Hardy family, it is authentic to the period, helping to recreate the atmosphere of his upbringing. * National Trust Property: The cottage is now owned and managed by the National Trust, ensuring its preservation and public access. * Traditional Cottage Garden: The property features a typical cottage garden, complete with roses around the door, which would have been an early inspiration for the author.
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* Hardy's Early Life and Works: Hardy lived in this cottage until he was 34 years old. It was here that he wrote some of his early and influential works, including the novels Under the Greenwood Tree (1872) and Far from the Madding Crowd (1874), as well as early poetry and short stories. The surrounding landscape, including the adjacent Thorncombe Wood and the heathland (which inspired his fictional "Egdon Heath" in The Return of the Native), profoundly influenced his writing.
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Thomas Hardy's Cottage is a significant literary landmark located in Higher Bockhampton, near Dorchester, Dorset, England. It is a quaint, cob and thatch cottage, notable for being the birthplace of the celebrated author Thomas Hardy in 1840. Here's what makes it special:
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New cafe pretty well located for cycle fuel stop, in Duck Farm housing the duck Farm Collective: https://www.facebook.com/DuckFarmCollective/ Super - very welcoming and good value, especially if you like ducks! Bike rack outside and while not super secure you and others can see it. Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Rusty-Duck-Coffee-Shop-Dorchester/100088144181251/
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Great place to explore and loads of single track riding and jumps etc
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Puddletown Forest?
Puddletown Forest offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 200 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 46 easy, 106 moderate, and 49 difficult tours.
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while cycling in Puddletown Forest?
Cyclists in Puddletown Forest will experience a diverse landscape, featuring a mix of coniferous and broadleaf trees, steep-sided valleys, and remnants of heathland. The forest lies on a ridge between the River Frome and River Piddle valleys, offering scenic views from higher points like Green Hill and Beacon Hill, where glimpses of Purbeck can be enjoyed.
Are there any family-friendly cycling routes in Puddletown Forest?
Yes, Puddletown Forest has routes suitable for families. The network of bridleways and gravel roads includes options for different fitness levels. For an easy and historically rich ride, consider the Thomas Hardy's Cottage loop from Stinsford, which is 8.95 km long and takes about 50 minutes.
What historical attractions or points of interest can I visit while cycling?
Puddletown Forest is rich in history. You can cycle to Thomas Hardy's Cottage, his birthplace and home for over 30 years. The forest also contains an old Roman road and numerous tumuli (Bronze Age bowl barrows), such as the Rainbarrows on Duddle Heath. For a pleasant ride connecting historical sites, try the Kingston Maurward Old Manor – Thomas Hardy's Cottage loop from Dorset.
Are there any circular cycling routes in Puddletown Forest?
Many routes in Puddletown Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Yellowham Hill Road – The Rusty Duck Coffee Shop loop from Dorset, a 37.59 km trail that leads through forest roads and past local amenities.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Puddletown Forest?
Puddletown Forest offers enjoyable cycling year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly pleasant due to milder weather and beautiful foliage. The 'Rhododendron Mile' provides a visual attraction when in bloom, typically in late spring. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about Puddletown Forest?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 180 reviews. Cyclists often praise the tranquility, natural beauty, and the varied terrain that offers options for different ability levels. Over 2,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Puddletown Forest's routes.
Are there any challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Yes, Puddletown Forest offers several challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists. For a more demanding ride, consider the Yellowham Hill Road – View of Lulworth Cove loop from Dorset, which covers nearly 57 km and includes significant elevation changes.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while cycling?
Puddletown Forest is a haven for wildlife. You might spot rare insects, ground-nesting birds like woodlark, and native reptiles such as sand lizards and smooth snakes. Rushy Pond, an important watering hole, teems with dragonflies, damselflies, newts, and grass snakes.
Are there any specific regulations for cycling in Puddletown Forest?
Public access for cycling in Puddletown Forest is restricted to public rights of way only. It's important to stick to authorized routes to ensure safety and protect the environment. Unauthorized mountain bike trails have been removed due to safety concerns and environmental impact.
Are there any routes that offer scenic viewpoints?
Yes, from higher points within the forest, such as Green Hill and Beacon Hill, you can enjoy scenic views, including glimpses of Purbeck. The Stratton Village Green – Yellowham Hill Road loop from Dorset offers varied terrain that includes some of these elevated sections.
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