4.7
(169)
1,519
riders
287
rides
Touring cycling routes around Hatfield Broad Oak traverse a landscape characterized by tranquil winding lanes and agricultural fields in the heart of Essex. The area features ancient woodlands, notably Hatfield Forest, which includes a lake and meandering river. Routes often combine mostly paved surfaces with some unpaved segments, offering varied terrain for cyclists. The region's generally quiet nature provides a suitable setting for exploring historical villages and natural features by bike.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
11
riders
29.2km
01:43
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
riders
38.4km
02:49
200m
200m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

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5.0
(5)
7
riders
36.4km
02:11
180m
180m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
22.7km
01:20
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
26.4km
01:32
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Large outdoor seating area with plenty of room for bikes through the archway. Open from 12pm, Wed-Sun.
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Ride westbound for the downhill. Deceptively tiring eastbound, especially the first half, followed by a slight uphill grade which doesn't let your legs recover.
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A more peaceful way of getting into/out of the west of Old Harlow. It is a bit up and down and in winter, the ruts in the surface can be hidden by mashed-up detritus from the trees.
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Whichever direction you take this, you have one gut-busting climb to do, but overall I think southbound is the best way. You get the climb immediately out of the way and are downhill or level for the rest of the ride. Heading northbound is fine until after the S-bend, then bring the pain up to Little Hallingbury FP 18.
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Typical information board and view along the Filtch Way.
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Sign and view on the Filtch Way, next to the entrance into Hatfield Forest.
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There are over 300 touring cycling routes to explore around Hatfield Broad Oak, offering a wide variety of options for different preferences and skill levels.
The routes around Hatfield Broad Oak primarily feature tranquil winding lanes and agricultural fields. While most surfaces are paved, some routes include unpaved segments, offering a varied experience. The area is known for its quiet roads, making it ideal for touring.
Yes, Hatfield Broad Oak offers routes suitable for all skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options. For instance, Flooded Road β Hellman's Cross Stocks loop from Takeley is an easy route, while Hatfield Forest Cafe β Hatfield Forest Lake loop from Hatfield Heath is considered difficult.
Cyclists can explore the ancient Hatfield Forest Lake within Hatfield Forest, known for its ancient trees and diverse wildlife. The region also features charming villages, historical architecture, and picturesque agricultural fields. You might also encounter areas with wild blackberries in late summer and sloe berries in the fall.
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can visit the 12th-century St. Mary the Virgin Church in Hatfield Broad Oak itself, known for its Norman architecture. Nearby, you might find historical sites like Remains of the Norman Castle Mound or Stansted Mountfitchet: Norman village and castle mound, offering cultural stops during your tour.
The quiet nature of the roads and the scenic countryside make Hatfield Broad Oak enjoyable for cycling throughout much of the year. Late summer and fall offer the added beauty of wild blackberries and sloe berries. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
While specific 'family-friendly' routes aren't explicitly highlighted, the abundance of easy routes and quiet lanes, such as Best traversed southbound β Downhill westbound loop from Hatfield Broad Oak, makes the area suitable for families looking for a relaxed cycling experience. Hatfield Forest itself offers tranquil settings for exploration.
Hatfield Forest, a significant natural feature in the area, is generally welcoming for dogs, making it a good option for exploring with your canine companion. When cycling on public roads and paths, ensure your dog is well-behaved and on a leash where appropriate, especially near livestock or in busy areas.
While specific parking facilities for cyclists are not detailed, villages like Hatfield Broad Oak and nearby attractions often have public parking options. It's advisable to check parking availability at your chosen starting point, especially if you plan to park a vehicle for an extended period.
The touring cycling routes around Hatfield Broad Oak are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 170 reviews. Cyclists often praise the tranquil winding lanes, the beauty of ancient woodlands like Hatfield Forest, and the opportunity to explore historical villages and quiet agricultural fields.
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Hatfield Broad Oak are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include Matching Green Common β Harlow Museum loop from Hatfield Broad Oak and Matching Green Common β Watery Lane loop from Hatfield Broad Oak, which are popular choices for exploring the region.
Yes, the region offers several charming villages that provide opportunities for refreshments. Villages like Fyfield and Hatfield Heath have pubs and corner shops. You might also find cafes, such as The Snug at High Easter, which can be incorporated into your cycling tour for a break.


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