The best traffic-free bike rides around Horsell Common
4.4
(264)
3,883
riders
35
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Horsell Common traverse a diverse landscape featuring heathland, woodland, meadows, and wetlands. The area is characterized by a mix of firm forest paths, sandy tracks, and gravel paths, making it suitable for hybrid or gravel bikes. The River Bourne flows through the common, and boardwalks wind through peaceful wetlands, adding scenic beauty to the routes. Expansive heathland, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, offers distinct landscapes for exploration.
Best no traffic touring…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
13
riders
11.6km
00:55
40m
40m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
15
riders
34.3km
02:00
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(3)
34
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
42
riders
21.1km
01:27
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
31
riders
20.6km
01:31
40m
40m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Horsell Common
Tips from the Community
To a passerby, a mill pond like the one presented here might seem ordinary, but there is another point of view: For example, in the story world of Otfried Preußler (1923 to 2013), who became famous with the imaginative children's books he wrote, things look quite different: Here, such a mill pond is also the extremely exciting habitat of a water sprite family. His still popular book "Der kleine Wassermann" tells wonderful stories of the adventures experienced by the family's offspring. On an audio book CD, the water sprite mother sings her son to sleep for the winter: "Little water sprite, close your eyes and get some rest, I'll sit here for a while and watch you sleep. May your dreams guide you and touch you wonderfully, and when you wake up again, a new year will begin for you."
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Wait until it is dry, otherwise the path can turn into a swamp
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The tow path in the Basingstoke canal, from Woking to the junction with the Wey, it is paved and smooth. The tow path in the Wey Navigation canal is more bumpy, roots etc. Apt for a gravel bike, perhaps not so for a road bike.
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Nice section of gravel along this section of the scenic River Wey Navigation Path The path is 20-mile (32 km) long altogether and is a continuous navigable route from the River Thames near Weybridge to Godalming
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Horsell Common is a large area of heathland and woodland located in Woking. It spans approximately 355 hectares and is one of the few remaining heathland landscapes in the region. It is open to the public for walking, wildlife watching, and other recreational activities.
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The Mill Pond at Coxes Lock is the largest on the Wey Navigation, built to control the water depth above 2.6 metres (8 feet 6 inches). The cascaded drop, which was originally one drop with a turning waterwheel, is recorded in some 19th-century sources.
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Excellent pub with a well known reputation, stopped here for a quiet drink. A really good rest point if your doing long distance along the canals and riverways into London from the south.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic touring cycling routes are available around Horsell Common?
There are over 35 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around Horsell Common. These routes vary in difficulty, offering options for easy, moderate, and more challenging rides.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these traffic-free cycling routes?
The routes predominantly feature a mixture of heathland, woodland, meadows, and wetlands. You'll encounter sandy tracks and gravel paths, which are ideal for hybrid or gravel bikes. Some sections can be rougher or muddy, especially during wetter seasons, so road bikes are generally not recommended.
Are there any easy, family-friendly no traffic cycling routes?
Yes, Horsell Common offers 15 easy touring cycling routes that are suitable for families. For a relaxed experience, consider routes like the Riverside Path along the River Wey – Walsham Lock and Weir loop from Woking, which offers gentle gradients and scenic views.
What are some interesting landmarks or natural features to see along the routes?
You can explore several unique spots. Don't miss The Sandpit, Horsell Common, famously associated with H.G. Wells' "The War of the Worlds." Other highlights include the tranquil Danewell Pond and the historic Bronze Age Barrows scattered across the Common. The River Bourne also winds through the area, with boardwalks offering peaceful wetland views.
Are the no traffic touring cycling routes around Horsell Common dog-friendly?
Yes, many of the routes are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy your ride with your canine companion. However, as Horsell Common is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and part of the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area (SPA), it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially near sensitive wildlife habitats, and to clean up after them.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Horsell Common?
Spring and summer offer pleasant conditions with vibrant heathland and woodland scenery. Autumn provides beautiful foliage. While cycling is possible year-round, be aware that some tracks can become muddy and rough during winter, making a gravel or mountain bike more suitable during those months.
Are there any circular no traffic cycling routes?
Yes, many of the routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Horsell Common – Horsell Common loop from Woking, which provides a convenient way to explore the area without retracing your steps.
Where can I find parking for these cycling routes?
Horsell Common has several car parks, including those managed by the Horsell Common Preservation Society. These are typically well-placed for accessing the various trails. Always check local signage for any parking restrictions or fees.
Are there cafes or refreshment stops along the traffic-free routes?
Yes, the Heather Farm Café is conveniently located within the Common, offering a perfect spot for refreshments and a break during your ride. It often overlooks the wetlands, providing a scenic stop.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Horsell Common?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.38 stars from 264 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free environment, the diverse landscapes, and the opportunity to explore unique natural and historical features like The Sandpit.
What kind of bike is best suited for the no traffic routes in Horsell Common?
Due to the varied terrain, which includes sandy tracks and gravel paths, a hybrid or gravel bike is most suitable. Road bikes are generally not recommended as many tracks are unsurfaced and can be rough or muddy.
How can I access Horsell Common using public transport?
Woking train station is a major transport hub with regular services, and Horsell Common is accessible from there. You can cycle from the station to various entry points of the Common. Check local bus routes for closer access points if available.
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