The best traffic-free bike rides around St. Leonards And St. Ives

There are 7 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around St. Leonards And St. Ives listed in this guide. These routes offer a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

Yes, for an easier, family-friendly option, consider the Ashley Heath Halt – Moors Valley Forest Trails loop from St. Leonards and St. Ives. This 24.9 km route is rated easy and takes you through the scenic Moors Valley, which is known for its family-friendly outdoor pursuits.

The trails in St. Leonards And St. Ives traverse diverse landscapes, including extensive heathland and woodlands, as well as areas along the Moors River and River Avon. Many routes utilize sections of the historic Castleman Trailway, offering a mix of quiet lanes, dedicated cycle paths, and unpaved bridleways.

Yes, most of the routes in this guide are circular. For example, the Bratley Water Crossing – Castleman Trailway loop from Ringwood School is a moderate 50.6 km circular route that incorporates a significant portion of the Castleman Trailway.

Many trails pass by or near interesting natural features. You might encounter Whitten Pond, a popular spot for wildlife viewing, or the Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve. Some routes also offer views of the Old Oak Tree in New Forest National Park.

Many routes start from locations with accessible parking, such as Ringwood School or areas near St. Leonards and St. Ives. For trails that utilize country parks like Avon Heath or Moors Valley, dedicated parking facilities are usually available. Always check local signage for parking regulations and fees.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.66 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes, the varied terrain of heathland and woodlands, and the well-maintained sections of the Castleman Trailway, which make for enjoyable gravel riding.

For experienced riders seeking a longer and more challenging adventure, the View of Hampton Ridge – Beechen Lane Gravel Track loop from Ringwood School is a difficult 67.1 km route. It offers significant elevation gain and takes you through varied terrain, including the Beechen Lane Gravel Track.

While some starting points might be accessible by local bus services, public transport options directly to trailheads can be limited. It's advisable to check local bus routes and schedules in advance, especially for routes starting further from town centers. Many routes are designed to be accessed by car, with parking available at or near the start.

The heathlands and woodlands of St. Leonards And St. Ives offer pleasant riding conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery with comfortable temperatures. During summer, the shaded woodland sections offer respite from the heat, while winter rides can be invigorating, though some trails might be muddier after heavy rain.

Yes, the Castleman Trailway is a significant feature in many routes. The Castleman Trailway – Ashley Heath Halt loop from Ringwood School is a moderate 46 km route that prominently features this disused railway line, known for its excellent gravel sections and traffic-free environment.

The region is situated between the Moors River to the west and the River Avon to the east. While specific routes might not run directly alongside the rivers for their entire length, the general landscape and some sections of trails, such as the Avon Causeway Gravel Track – Ashley Heath Halt loop from St. Leonards and St. Ives, will bring you close to these waterways and their associated natural beauty.