Castleman Trailway and Moors Valley Country Park loop

Embark on an easy touring bicycle adventure along the Castleman Trailway and Moors Valley Country Park loop, a route that spans 12.0 miles (19.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 216 feet (66 metres). You can comfortably complete this loop in about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The trail offers a delightful mix of scenery, guiding you through East Dorset's internationally important heathland, across rivers, and into peaceful forestry plantations. Much of the route follows the old Southampton to Dorchester railway line, providing a largely flat and gentle ride on gravel and paved surfaces, with gentle twists and turns earning it the nickname "Castleman Corkscrew." Within Moors Valley Country Park, you will find a rich forest environment featuring meadows, woodlands, and lakes, including the unique Tree Top Trail offering a bird's-eye view.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as this loop is well-suited for touring cyclists of all skill levels. While the Castleman Trailway is mostly off-road, be aware of a 2.5-mile stretch between Canford Bottom roundabout and The Willett Arms in Wimborne where you will need to use the road. Moors Valley Country Park offers a mix of gravel and tarmac tracks, with easy waymarked paths for general cycling. The park also features more challenging singletrack mountain biking routes and the Watchmoor Bike Park, so you can choose paths that match your desired level of challenge. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned for accessing the trailway or the general cycling paths within the park.

This trail is notable for its historical significance, following the path of the