The best gravel rides around Harlow

There are over 10 gravel bike trails available around Harlow, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored these routes more than 170 times.

Yes, Harlow offers several easy gravel bike trails perfect for beginners and families. Many routes follow relatively flat river towpaths and former railway lines. An excellent option is the River Lea Navigation at Ware – Hartham Common loop from Rye House, which is 11.6 miles long and leads through river valleys and open parkland.

Absolutely. For those looking for longer rides, the Harlow area features routes like the Flitch Way — East section – Flitch Way Cycle Path loop from Bishop's Stortford, which spans 37.5 miles (60.4 km) and follows a historic railway line through rural landscapes. Another substantial option is the River Stort Towpath – View of Seventy Acres Lake loop from Harlow Mill, covering 29.3 miles (47.2 km) with views along the river.

The gravel biking around Harlow is generally characterized by relatively flat terrain, primarily along river towpaths and disused railway lines. While some routes are moderate in length and duration, there are no routes classified as 'difficult' in the immediate area, making it more suitable for relaxed to moderate rides rather than advanced technical challenges.

Many routes offer scenic views, particularly those along the rivers. The River Stort Towpath – View of Seventy Acres Lake loop from Harlow Mill provides picturesque views along the River Stort and passes by Seventy Acres Lake. You can also explore highlights like Parndon Mill and Lock or the River Stort Navigation for lovely waterside scenery.

Along the gravel bike trails, you can discover various points of interest. The routes often follow the River Stort and River Lea, offering views of the waterways and surrounding nature. Notable highlights include Parndon Mill and Lock, Burnt Mill Lock, and the Historic Buildings of Old Harlow. Some areas also feature amenities like the Wooden Ramps and Jumps in the Forest for mountain biking enthusiasts.

Yes, many of the gravel bike trails around Harlow are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Cole Green Way – Cole Green Station loop from Ware and the River Stort Towpath – River Lea Navigation at Ware loop from Harlow Town.

The gravel trails around Harlow are generally accessible year-round due to their relatively flat nature and well-maintained surfaces, often following towpaths and former railway lines. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Even in winter, many routes remain rideable, though conditions can be muddier, especially after rain.

Yes, the routes along the River Stort and River Lea often pass through or near villages and towns where you can find pubs and cafes. While specific pub stops aren't listed for every route, the accessibility of these areas makes it easy to plan refreshment breaks into your ride, especially on routes like the River Lea Navigation at Ware – Side Wood Trail loop from Ware which passes through populated areas.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 30 reviews. Reviewers often praise the accessible and varied terrain, highlighting the peaceful river towpaths, the historical railway lines like the Flitch Way, and the overall ease of navigation. Many appreciate the options for both shorter, relaxed rides and longer, moderate excursions through the local countryside.

Harlow is well-connected by public transport, particularly by train. Harlow Town station provides good access to the local area, and many routes, especially those along the river towpaths, can be reached from various points along the railway lines. This makes it convenient to start or end your gravel biking adventure using public transport.