The best cycling routes around Combe
4.6
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510
riders
110
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Touring cycling routes around Combe are situated within the North Hampshire Downs, characterized by dramatic elevated landscapes and extensive views. The region is part of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering a mix of rolling hills, quiet country roads, and picturesque farmlands. Walbury Hill, the highest natural point in South East England, provides panoramic vistas across four counties. This terrain offers diverse road cycling experiences.
Best touring cycling routes around Combe
- The most popular touring cycling…
Last updated: April 29, 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.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4
riders
22.8km
01:31
340m
340m
Moderate bike ride. 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.
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.
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Tips from the Community
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 touring cycling routes are available in Combe?
There are over 110 touring cycling routes around Combe, offering a wide variety of experiences through the North Hampshire Downs and the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
What is the general terrain like for touring cyclists in Combe?
The terrain in Combe is characterized by rolling hills, quiet country roads, and elevated landscapes. You can expect diverse road cycling experiences, from gentle gradients through picturesque farmlands to more challenging routes with significant ascents, especially around areas like Walbury Hill, the highest natural point in South East England.
What are the difficulty levels of touring cycling routes in Combe?
Combe offers a range of routes suitable for different abilities. You'll find approximately 27 easy routes, 59 moderate routes, and 27 difficult routes. This variety ensures options for both casual riders and those seeking a more challenging experience.
Are there any notable landmarks or viewpoints along the cycling routes in Combe?
Yes, the Combe area is rich with landmarks and scenic viewpoints. You can cycle past the historic Combe Gibbet, offering extensive views across four counties. Other points of interest include the View of North Wessex Downs and the Watership Down Climb.
What historical sites can I explore while cycling in the Combe area?
The region features several historical sites accessible by bike. You might encounter the Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort, Fosbury Hill Fort, or the intriguing Devil’s Waistcoat (Kenward Stone). The Lady Well at Speen also offers a glimpse into local history.
Are there circular touring cycling routes available in Combe?
Many touring cycling routes in Combe are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the challenging Honesty Café – View from Sandpits Down loop from Inkpen and the moderate View from Sandpits Down loop from Woolton Hill are popular circular options.
What kind of amenities (cafes, pubs) are available along the touring cycling routes?
Some routes, like the Inkpen Common – Honesty Café at Crown & Carter loop from Inkpen, specifically mention cafes, indicating that you can find places to refuel. The region's quiet country roads often pass through villages where local pubs and cafes may be available, particularly in areas like Inkpen and Woolton Hill.
Is Combe suitable for family-friendly touring cycling?
Yes, Combe offers several easy touring cycling routes, with approximately 27 options available. These routes typically feature gentler gradients and shorter distances, making them suitable for families or beginners. The picturesque farmlands and quiet roads provide a pleasant environment for a family outing.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Combe?
The North Wessex Downs, where Combe is located, offers beautiful scenery year-round. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Summer is also excellent, though some climbs can be more strenuous in warmer weather. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for potentially colder conditions and shorter daylight hours.
Are there options for parking when cycling in Combe?
While specific parking facilities for cyclists are not detailed, many touring routes start from villages like Inkpen and Woolton Hill. These villages typically offer local parking options, often near community centers or village greens, which can serve as convenient starting points for your ride.
How do other touring cyclists rate the routes in Combe?
The touring cycling routes in Combe are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 37 reviews. Cyclists often praise the panoramic views, the challenge of the rolling hills, and the tranquility of the quiet country roads.
Can I combine cycling with exploring waterways in Combe?
Yes, the region offers opportunities to combine cycling with exploring waterways. The Kennet and Avon Canal Path is a notable feature, and you can also visit Crofton Locks and Pumping Station, which are interesting historical sites related to the canal system.
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