The best traffic-free bike rides around Inkpen
4.6
(49)
830
riders
15
rides
Touring cycling around Inkpen is characterized by its location within the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering a landscape of rolling hills and varied terrain. The region features prominent elevations such as Walbury Hill and Inkpen Hill, which provide challenging climbs and expansive views across the Kennet Valley. Cyclists can navigate through a mosaic of chalk grassland, open farmland, and ancient woodlands, utilizing quiet country lanes. This area provides a diverse environment for no traffic touring cycling…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
5.0
(1)
11
riders
47.3km
03:06
510m
510m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
21.6km
01:26
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2.2
(5)
5
riders
9.90km
00:36
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
21.9km
01:25
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
11.7km
00:45
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Inkpen
Tips from the Community
IT’S NOW A FLOWER SHOP - don’t do this route if you are expecting a bakery.
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If you’re looking for a spot with a "dark history meets beautiful views" vibe, Combe Gibbet is exactly that. Perched high on Gallows Down (the name gives it away, doesn't it?) on the border of Berkshire and Hampshire, it’s one of the most atmospheric places in the North Wessex Downs. Here’s the story behind this lonely landmark: The "Double Trouble" Origin Story The gibbet isn't just a random decoration; it was built in 1676 for a very specific and grim reason. A local man named George Broomham and his mistress, Dorothy Newman, were convicted of murdering George's wife and son. As a warning to others, the authorities built a massive double-arm gibbet to hang them in chains right on the parish boundary. The one you see today is a replica (the 7th or 8th version!), but it stands in the exact same spot, looking quite eerie against the skyline. Why It’s Actually a Lovely Visit Despite the macabre history, people flock here for reasons that have nothing to do with 17th-century crime: The Views: Because it sits on the crest of the ridge (near Walbury Hill, the highest point in South East England), you can see for miles. On a clear day, you can look across the Kennet Valley all the way to the Cotswolds. The Paragliders: It’s a legendary spot for paragliding and hang-gliding. It’s incredibly relaxing to sit in the grass and watch them launch off the steep scarp and circle over the valley like giant birds. Ancient History: The gibbet is actually built on top of a Neolithic Long Barrow (a 5,000-year-old burial mound). So, it’s been a significant "high place" for humans for a very, very long time.
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Replacements and Legacy: The original gibbet from 1676 eventually deteriorated. The current gibbet is actually the seventh to stand on the site. Previous versions were replaced due to rotting, being struck by lightning, vandalism, or being blown down by strong winds. The current replica was erected in 1992. While the gibbet was only ever used for the display of George Bromham and Dorothy Newman, its grim history has made it a local landmark and a popular spot for walkers, hang-gliders, and paragliders, offering expansive views across Berkshire, Hampshire, and Wiltshire. The story of the murders even inspired a 1948 silent film called "The Black Legend," made by a young John Schlesinger.
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The Gibbet's Purpose: After their execution, their bodies were brought back to Inkpen and prepared for public display. A large, double gibbet was hastily erected on the long barrow. The bodies of George and Dorothy, bound in chains, were then displayed on either side of the gibbet on March 6, 1676, as a stark and gruesome warning to the local community to deter similar crimes. The location was chosen due to its prominence and being on the border of the two parishes, as there was a dispute over which parish should bear the cost of the gibbet.
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The Murders and Gibbeting: The Crime: George Bromham, a married farm labourer from Combe, and Dorothy Newman, a widow from Inkpen, were having an illicit affair. To be together, they murdered George's wife, Martha Bromham, and their son, Robert. Accounts vary, but it's believed they waylaid Martha and Robert and beat them to death with staves near where the gibbet now stands. One dramatic, though likely far-fetched, version suggests George killed his wife by thrusting her head into a hornet's nest. The Witness: The crime was reportedly witnessed by a villager known as "Mad Thomas," who alerted the authorities. Trial and Execution: George Bromham and Dorothy Newman were tried at Winchester Assizes. They were found guilty and hanged in Winchester on March 3, 1676.
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Lovely gentle slope down through green water medows
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Any climb is generally worth it for the views at the top, this is in the top few for a far reaching vista.
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Combe Gibbet is an impressive landmark at the top of Gallows Down, near Combe. It is actually located on the Test Way footpath on the Berkshire-Hampshire border and is a well-known local landmark. Historically, the gibbet was only used once back in 1676 to display the bodies of George Broomham and Dorothy Newman. Both were hanged for murdering Broomham’s wife and son, who discovered their extramarital affair, but alas, there was a witness, and things didn’t work out so well for them. Since that time, the gibbet has been replaced seven times, the last time back in 1992. Now it is just a tourist attraction and an area where you have stunning views out over the surrounding countryside. With a nearby car park, it is also a popular spot with hang gliding and paragliding enthusiasts.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Inkpen?
There are 15 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Inkpen listed in this guide. These routes vary in difficulty, offering options for different experience levels.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Inkpen?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from 54 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning landscapes within the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the challenging climbs of Walbury Hill, and the tranquil, traffic-free nature of the routes.
Are there any easy, traffic-free touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Inkpen?
Yes, there are 5 easy routes designed for a more relaxed pace. An excellent option is the Inkpen Common – Honesty Café at Crown & Carter loop from Inkpen, which covers about 9.9 km with minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for a gentle ride. Another easy route is the Cookies Bakery loop from Inkpen, spanning 11.7 km.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these routes?
Inkpen is nestled within the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so you can expect a rich tapestry of landscapes. Routes often traverse chalk grassland, open farmland, and ancient woodlands. You'll encounter rolling hills, offering rewarding panoramic views, especially from higher points like Walbury Hill and Inkpen Hill.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions to see along the routes?
Absolutely! Many routes offer glimpses of historical and natural landmarks. You might pass by Combe Gibbet on Gallows Down, a historic landmark between Walbury Hill and Inkpen Hill. Other points of interest in the wider area include Devil’s Waistcoat (Kenward Stone) and Fosbury Hill Fort. Don't miss the unique Inkpen Crocus Fields, one of only two large saffron crocus fields in the UK, which offers a distinctive point of interest near the village center.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes available?
Yes, all the routes listed in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end your journey in the same location. For example, the moderate Inkpen Common loop from Inkpen offers a 21.6 km ride through varied terrain, while the more challenging Honesty Café – View from Sandpits Down loop from Inkpen is a 46.8 km circular tour with significant climbs.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Inkpen?
Spring, summer, and early autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Inkpen. The weather is milder, and the landscapes are vibrant. Spring brings the unique sight of the Inkpen Crocus Fields. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially muddier sections, especially on unpaved paths.
Are there any routes that offer particularly expansive views?
Many routes in Inkpen provide stunning vistas, particularly those that ascend Walbury Hill or Inkpen Hill. The View from Combe Gibbet – View from Combe Gibbet loop from Combe is a moderate 21.9 km route that specifically highlights the panoramic views from Combe Gibbet across the Kennet Valley and beyond. You'll also find highlights like View of North Wessex Downs and View of the Wiltshire Downs along various trails.
Can I find cafes or pubs along these no-traffic routes?
While the routes prioritize a traffic-free experience, many are designed to pass near or through villages where you can find amenities. For instance, the Inkpen Common – Honesty Café at Crown & Carter loop from Inkpen specifically mentions the Honesty Café, indicating a refreshment stop. It's always a good idea to check opening times in advance, especially in smaller villages.
What is the difficulty level of the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Inkpen?
The routes around Inkpen offer a range of difficulties. There are 5 easy routes, 9 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route. The terrain includes both gentle stretches and more challenging ascents, particularly on the prominent hills like Walbury Hill, ensuring options for all fitness levels.
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