Hilly Circular Cycle Route from Winchester

About

This short but hilly ride visits the western end of the South Downs National Park and the Itchen valley between Alresford and Winchester. 

The ride starts at Winchester, the ancient capital of England, a city well worth exploring before or after the ride. The route leaves Winchester on the former Didcot to Southampton railway line, now a cycle track, before climbing up to Owlesbury via Twyford. The ride reaches its highest point at Lane End before dropping down to the river Itchen at Ovington. A beautiful and almost car-free ride via Avington Park (watch out for Highland Cattle on the road) along the south side of the river brings the rider back into the heart of Winchester.

Cycling: Road

Difficulty: 6/10

Distance: 20 miles/2.5hrs

OS Explorer Map: OL32

OS Landranger Map: 185

Nearest Railway Station: Winchester (start and finish)

Download Route

Some highlights: Winchester, South Downs National Park, Avington Park and River Itchen 

Refreshments: 

Coffee on arrival: Hadlebar Cafe, eighteen71 and Flat Whites

Mid-ride refreshments (13mi): The Bush Inn, Ovington 

Afternoon tea or end of ride pint (20mi): Plenty of cafes, resturants and pubs to choose from in Winchester.

​​​​​​​Download Route