The best cycling routes around Ringwood

There are over 60 touring cycling routes available in and around Ringwood, offering a wide variety of experiences. These routes cater to different fitness levels, with nearly an equal number of easy and moderate options, plus a few more challenging rides.

Ringwood's touring cycling routes offer diverse terrain. You'll find extensive ancient woodlands, open heathlands, and picturesque villages within the New Forest. Many routes utilize quiet country lanes and dedicated cycle tracks. Sections of disused railway lines provide generally flat paths, while some routes extend into Cranborne Chase, offering more varied landscapes and elevation changes.

Yes, Ringwood serves as a great starting point for longer touring rides. For example, the Bolderwood, Brockenhurst & Sway loop from Ringwood covers over 57 km (35 miles) through the heart of the New Forest. Another option is the National Byway and Cranborne Chase Loop, which is approximately 51 km (31 miles) and offers varied landscapes including rolling terrain.

For families, routes that utilize disused railway lines or dedicated cycle tracks are often ideal due to their flatter, traffic-free nature. Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, located near Ringwood, offers many miles of paths and tracks suitable for cycling, including waymarked routes. The Through the Forest Trail – Moors Valley Forest Trails loop from Poulner is a moderate option that explores this area.

Many of the touring cycling routes around Ringwood are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Bolderwood, Brockenhurst & Sway loop from Ringwood and the National Byway and Cranborne Chase Loop. The Highwood Ford – Ocknell Plain loop from Poulner is another excellent circular option through New Forest heathlands.

The routes often pass through the stunning New Forest National Park, where you can spot the famous New Forest ponies and enjoy ancient woodlands and open heathlands. You might also encounter parts of the Stour Valley Way, following the River Stour. For specific points of interest, consider exploring nearby highlights such as Whitten Pond or the Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve.

Ringwood itself offers various parking options. For routes venturing into the New Forest or Moors Valley Country Park, designated car parks are usually available at trailheads or visitor centers. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking facilities.

Yes, the area is well-equipped for cyclists, with many routes offering opportunities for stops at cafes and pubs, particularly in the picturesque villages within the New Forest. Planning your route with komoot allows you to see points of interest, including refreshment stops, along your chosen path.

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in Ringwood, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, the New Forest's landscapes are beautiful year-round, and autumn provides stunning foliage. Winter cycling is also possible, but be prepared for colder, potentially wetter conditions and shorter days.

The touring cycling routes around Ringwood are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 70 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from ancient woodlands to open heathlands, and the variety of routes that cater to different abilities. The presence of quiet country lanes and dedicated cycle tracks also contributes to a positive experience.

While popular routes can see more traffic, especially on weekends, exploring some of the routes that venture deeper into Cranborne Chase or lesser-known sections of the New Forest can offer a more tranquil experience. The Bluebell Path — Broomy Inclosure – Gravel Path from Splash Bridge loop from Poulner is a moderate option that provides a lovely ride through varied terrain.