The best traffic-free bike rides around Combwell Wood

There are over 35 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Combwell Wood, offering a variety of distances and difficulties. These routes allow you to explore the beautiful High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty without the disturbance of vehicle traffic.

The routes around Combwell Wood cater to a range of abilities. Out of the 37 available routes, 14 are classified as easy, 13 as moderate, and 10 as difficult. This means you can find everything from gentle, mostly paved paths suitable for all skill levels to more challenging routes with varied terrain.

Yes, the area is excellent for family cycling. Many of the routes within Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, which is very close to Combwell Wood, are designed for family use. An example is the Bike loop from Bedgebury National Pinetum, which is an easy 3.6 km ride, perfect for younger cyclists or a leisurely family outing.

The terrain varies, reflecting the diverse landscape of the High Weald. You'll find routes with mostly paved surfaces, especially around Bedgebury Forest, as well as gravel paths and some sections through ancient woodlands. The region's rolling sandstone plateau and incised valleys mean you can expect a mix of gentle inclines and descents, offering scenic views.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Bedgebury Forest – Pointless Trail loop from Bedgebury National Pinetum is an easy 6.8 km circular route, ideal for a pleasant ride through the forest.

While Combwell Wood itself is an ancient woodland with unique gills and rich biodiversity, the surrounding cycling routes offer access to several notable features. You can cycle past Louisa Lake within Bedgebury Forest, explore the extensive managed forest, and connect to routes leading to Bewl Water, a large reservoir with picturesque water views, and the historic Scotney Castle.

Many of the trails in the Bedgebury Forest area, which hosts several no-traffic routes, are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife or other visitors, and to check specific trail regulations before you go.

The primary access point for many of the no-traffic routes is Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest. This location offers ample parking facilities, making it a convenient starting point for your touring cycling adventure around Combwell Wood.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 38 ratings. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes, the beautiful ancient woodlands, and the varied scenery that includes lakes and forests, making for a peaceful and enjoyable cycling experience.

Yes, you'll find options for refreshments near the popular cycling hubs. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, a common starting point for many routes, has facilities including cafes. Additionally, the villages and towns surrounding Combwell Wood and Bedgebury offer various pubs and eateries where you can take a break and refuel.

The area is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly popular. In spring, the woodlands burst with new growth and wildflowers. Autumn offers stunning displays of color in the ancient forests. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter can be serene, though some paths might be muddier. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.