The best cycling routes around West Woodhay
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1,109
riders
209
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Touring cycling around West Woodhay offers diverse terrain and scenic landscapes, primarily characterized by the picturesque Enborne Valley. The region features undulating countryside with a mix of gentle slopes and more challenging ascents, often running parallel to the foothills of the highest downland in Southern England. Cyclists can explore lightly trafficked roads connecting charming villages and pass through pleasant wooded areas. The area provides a variety of routes suitable for different fitness levels.
Best touring cycling routes around West Woodhay
…Last updated: May 3, 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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8
riders
15.1km
00:57
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
37.1km
02:27
510m
510m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
9.24km
00:33
70m
70m
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 West Woodhay?
There are over 200 touring cycling routes around West Woodhay, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. You can find routes ranging from easy to difficult, with many exploring the scenic Enborne Valley.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while touring cycling in West Woodhay?
West Woodhay's touring cycling routes primarily traverse the picturesque Enborne Valley, featuring undulating countryside with a mix of gentle slopes and more challenging ascents. You'll often ride parallel to the foothills of Southern England's highest downland, pass through pleasant wooded areas, and connect charming villages via lightly trafficked roads.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in West Woodhay?
Yes, West Woodhay offers a good selection of easy touring cycling routes. There are approximately 47 easy routes available, many on mostly paved surfaces. An example of an easy route is the Bike loop from Enborne Row, which covers about 9.2 km with minimal elevation gain.
Are there challenging touring cycling routes in the West Woodhay area?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, West Woodhay has around 59 difficult touring cycling routes. These routes often feature significant elevation gains and can include unpaved or more demanding segments. A popular challenging option is the Honesty Café – View from Sandpits Down loop from Inkpen, which is nearly 47 km long with over 490 meters of ascent.
What is the typical length of touring cycling routes around West Woodhay?
The touring cycling routes around West Woodhay vary significantly in length. You can find shorter rides, such as the Bike loop from Enborne Row at about 9.2 km, to longer, more demanding tours like the Honesty Café – View from Sandpits Down loop from Inkpen, which is nearly 47 km.
Are there circular touring cycling routes in West Woodhay?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in West Woodhay are circular, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location. Examples include the Bartlettsdown Copse – Kydd's Copse loop from Woolton Hill and the Honesty Café – View of Wayfarer's Walk loop from Enborne Row.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in West Woodhay?
While specific parking areas for each route are not always listed, many routes originate from villages like Inkpen, Woolton Hill, or Enborne Row, where local parking options may be available. For broader information on cycling in the district, West Berkshire Council provides resources and maps that might indicate parking facilities; you can check their website at westberks.gov.uk.
Are there places to stop for refreshments along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, the region has charming villages connected by lightly trafficked roads, offering opportunities for refreshment stops. For example, the Bowlers Arms in Wash Common is a known spot where cyclists can take a break. Some routes are even named after cafes, such as those starting near the Honesty Café.
What can I see along the touring cycling routes in West Woodhay?
Beyond the scenic countryside, you can explore several interesting landmarks and natural features. Highlights include the historic Combe Gibbet, the ancient Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort, and the Greenham Common Control Tower. Some routes also pass near sections of the Kennet and Avon Canal Path.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in West Woodhay?
The touring cycling routes in West Woodhay are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 70 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, the scenic views of the Enborne Valley, and the quiet, lightly trafficked roads that connect charming villages and wooded areas.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in West Woodhay?
While specific 'family-friendly' designations can depend on the family's experience, many of the easy and moderate routes on mostly paved surfaces would be suitable for families. Routes with less elevation gain and shorter distances, such as the Kennet Shopping Centre loop from Woolton Hill (16.4 km, easy), are good starting points for family outings.
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