4.7
(175)
1,404
riders
264
rides
Touring cycling around Quendon and Rickling is characterized by a gently rolling plateau, situated approximately 300 feet above sea level, which acts as a watershed for the Cam and Stort rivers. This area, designated an Area of Special Landscape Value, features "North West Essex chalk farmland" with a sense of rural peace, individual farms, and historic manors. The fieldscape is dominated by irregular fields, and many lanes away from main roads are sunken and winding, some holding Protected Lane Status.
โฆLast updated: May 9, 2026
4.8
(4)
19
riders
27.5km
01:39
220m
220m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(13)
20
riders
34.0km
02:11
320m
320m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

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12
riders
27.7km
02:01
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
8
riders
23.3km
01:26
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
7
riders
82.9km
05:05
680m
680m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Passes under the railway line and motorway between Catmere End and Audley End.
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The Bridleway goes direct to it from behind so you donโt have to go on the road at all, just donโt turn into the actual farm, the bridleway is just after, itโs all well signposted
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Easy going southbound and a massive downhill into Clapgate. A gut-buster northbound, as you're not out of the woods by a long chalk after your first massive climb. There's more to come, which isn't as bad, but is made so by the degree to which you haven't recovered from the initial climb at the time you reach the next, past the pub.
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For me, there's only one way to travel this stretch - southbound. Apart from between Potash Lane and Ginns Road, there's just no respite northbound. It's constant uphill, slight grades and sharp climbs. Southbound, while it does have some climbs, is far more manageable.
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Not for the faint of heart northbound, in terms of both the steepness and traffic rushing by (and darting back into your path as they see a car coming the opposite way). A pleasure to fly down southbound, though watch for the road surface, as it's not entirely smooth.
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There are over 280 touring cycling routes in Quendon and Rickling, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. This includes 76 easy routes, 183 moderate routes, and 28 difficult routes.
The region is characterized by a gently rolling plateau, about 300 feet above sea level, acting as a watershed for the Cam and Stort rivers. You'll find picturesque "North West Essex chalk farmland" with a sense of rural peace. Many lanes away from main roads are sunken and winding, some even holding Protected Lane Status, ensuring scenic and quieter cycling opportunities. While many routes feature mostly well-paved surfaces, some segments may be unpaved.
Yes, Quendon and Rickling offers 76 easy touring cycling routes, making it suitable for beginners and families. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and shorter distances, allowing for a more relaxed ride through the scenic countryside.
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 28 difficult touring cycling routes available. These routes often feature significant elevation gain and longer distances, such as the The Railway Arms โ Chestnut Avenue loop from Newport, which covers 21.1 miles (34.0 km) with varied terrain, or the Cromer Windmill โ Aspenden Village Green loop from Newport, a demanding 82.9 km ride with over 680 meters of ascent.
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Quendon and Rickling are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include The Brewery Tap โ Flood-prone ford loop from Clavering and Roos Byway โ Pepple's Lane loop from Newport, providing convenient options for exploring the region.
The area is rich in history and offers several notable attractions. You can cycle past the impressive 17th-century Audley End House, explore historic villages like Newport with its 13th-century church, or pass by The Cricketers Arms on Rickling Green, a historical pub where cricket has been played since 1850. Both Quendon and Rickling also boast churches over 800 years old.
Yes, the region is known for its natural beauty. You might encounter the ancient trees and diverse wildlife of Hatfield Forest, considered one of the best-preserved medieval forests globally, or spot the vibrant bluebell woods in spring. The gently rolling landscape and rural setting provide opportunities to observe various bird species and other local fauna.
Yes, the area caters to cyclists with several options for refreshments. The "Waffle" cafe (formerly Bicicletta) is known for being cyclist-friendly, offering bike racks and outdoor seating. Additionally, historic pubs like The Cricketers Arms on Rickling Green can serve as pleasant rest stops during your ride.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 180 reviews. Reviewers often praise the rural peace, the charm of the historic villages, and the quiet, winding lanes that offer a sense of escape from main roads. The varied terrain and options for all skill levels are also frequently highlighted.
While specific parking locations for each route are best checked on individual tour pages, many villages in the area, such as Newport, offer public parking facilities that can serve as convenient starting points for your cycling adventures. It's advisable to check local parking regulations before your visit.
Spring is particularly beautiful, with bluebell woods coming into bloom, offering a vibrant spectacle. The generally pleasant weather from spring through early autumn makes these seasons ideal for touring cycling, allowing you to fully enjoy the picturesque landscapes and historic charm of the region.
Yes, some routes will take you near significant natural features. For instance, Hatfield Forest Lake is a beautiful natural attraction that can be incorporated into your cycling tours, offering a serene spot for a break amidst ancient woodland.


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