The best gravel rides around Savernake

Savernake Forest offers over 10 dedicated gravel bike routes, ranging from moderate to difficult, providing a diverse experience across its ancient woodlands and varied terrain.

You'll find a mix of hard-packed gravel paths, forest roads that can sometimes be bumpy, and sections that connect to longer routes like the Kennet and Avon Canal and The Ridgeway Trail. The landscape includes rolling hills, dry and wet valleys, and ancient woodlands dominated by oak and beech trees.

Yes, Savernake Forest features several challenging gravel bike routes. For instance, the Kennet and Avon Canal Crossing – Tan Hill on King Alfred's Way loop from Burbage is a difficult 39.2-mile (63.1 km) trail with significant elevation gain, suitable for experienced riders.

Savernake Forest is rich in history and natural beauty. You can encounter ancient trees like the Big Belly Oak, estimated to be around 1,100 years old, and the Ailesbury Column. Nearby, you might explore the prehistoric sites of Avebury Stone Circle or Silbury Hill, both significant historical monuments.

Many of the gravel routes in Savernake Forest are designed as loops. An example is the Double Helix Cycle Bridge – Coate Water Country Park loop from Marlborough, a moderate 22.8-mile (36.7 km) path that offers a mix of forest and open country.

The forest is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and stunning scenery with changing foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter can make some forest roads bumpier or muddier, especially after rain. Always check local conditions before heading out.

Due to the forest's geology, with clay-with-flints deposits, some paths can become damp and heavy after rain. While many main routes are hard-packed gravel, narrower forest roads might become muddy and more challenging, requiring appropriate tires and caution.

Yes, car parks such as the one at Postern Hill offer convenient access points to many of the forest's trails, making it easy to start your gravel biking adventure.

While direct public transport into the heart of Savernake Forest might be limited, the nearby town of Marlborough is accessible by bus. From Marlborough, you can cycle to the forest, which is a short distance away. For detailed public transport information, it's best to check local bus schedules.

Savernake Forest offers routes suitable for various ability levels, including easier sections that can be enjoyed by families. The Grand Avenue, a 4.2-mile straight, beech-lined carriageway, provides a relatively flat and scenic ride, perfect for a family outing.

Savernake Forest is generally dog-friendly, and many visitors enjoy walking or cycling with their dogs. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially given the presence of wildlife like fallow and roe deer, and to respect any signage regarding livestock or sensitive areas.

While Savernake Forest itself is largely undeveloped, the nearby town of Marlborough offers a good selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants where you can refuel before or after your ride. Some routes, like the Marlborough Town Centre – Ramsbury Distillery Company loop from Marlborough, start and end near town amenities.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique blend of ancient woodlands, the extensive network of varied trails, and the historical features that make each ride an exploration.