The best traffic-free bike rides in Ashford Hill National Nature Reserve

There are nearly 170 touring cycling routes in and around the Ashford Hill National Nature Reserve area that focus on minimizing traffic. These routes cater to various fitness levels, with 45 easy, 79 moderate, and 45 difficult options.

The routes in this area offer a mix of surfaces. While the Ashford Hill National Nature Reserve itself is primarily for walking, many cycling routes in the surrounding area incorporate both paved and unpaved sections. For example, routes along the Kennet and Avon Canal are mostly paved, while others might include gravel paths through woodlands or meadows.

Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for families. An excellent option is The Rowbarge – Kennet and Avon Canal loop from Brimpton, which is 13.6 km long and mostly on paved surfaces. Another easy choice is the Ham Lane – Beautiful Trees loop from Baughurst, covering 13.2 km.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can expect to cycle through low-lying meadows, ancient woodlands like Great Haughurst Copse, and alongside the Baughurst Brook. The area is a haven for wildlife, boasting 32 species of butterflies, including the purple emperor, and various birds such as nightingales and lesser spotted woodpeckers, especially in spring and early summer.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Smooth Rural Road loop from Ashford Hill with Headley and the Theale Lake – Kennet and Avon Canal loop from Baughurst.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 124 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquil, natural settings, the variety of routes, and the opportunity to explore the scenic countryside away from heavy traffic.

Yes, several routes in the broader Ashford Hill area connect to or incorporate sections of the Kennet and Avon Canal. These canal-side paths are generally well-suited for touring cyclists looking for mostly paved, traffic-free sections. Consider routes like Theale Lake – Kennet and Avon Canal loop from Baughurst.

While the reserve itself is known for its natural beauty rather than specific viewpoints, the ancient woodlands, such as Great Haughurst Copse, offer picturesque settings. The historical context of the area, once part of the medieval royal forest of Pamber, adds a unique layer to the landscape. Routes like The Vyne – The Calleva Arms loop from Tadley might pass near other local points of interest.

Spring and early summer are particularly rewarding for touring cyclists in Ashford Hill National Nature Reserve. During these seasons, the meadows are vibrant with wildflowers, and the woodlands are alive with birdsong, offering the best chance to spot diverse wildlife like butterflies and various bird species.

Parking is generally available in the villages surrounding the reserve, such as Ashford Hill, Baughurst, Brimpton, or Tadley, which serve as common starting points for many routes. Specific parking details for each route can often be found on the individual tour pages.

While the immediate reserve is purely natural, the villages and towns in the wider area, such as Kingsclere, Tadley, and Newbury, offer various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. Many routes are designed as loops starting from these locations, making it convenient to find refreshments before or after your ride.