Cycling & Mountain Biking in Hampshire

Cycling is a great way to see Hampshire, with over 750 miles of off-road cycle routes for beginners and challenging trails for the enthusiast.

There are over 30 different trails available to download from the Hampshire County Council website, from a 2.6 mile route at Staunton Country Park in Havant to the more difficult 15 mile trail to the north of Petersfield.

The more adventurous cyclist may want to try out the Ox Drove off road cycle trail which takes you through 25 miles of rolling hills and woodlands at the heart of rural Hampshire. You can also stop off at the Mid Hants Railway's Watercress Line along the way.

Families and Off Road Routes in Hampshire

There are also many trails particularly suitable for families or newcomers to cycling.
The Hayling Billy Hill Path on Hayling Island and the Test Way Path near Romsey have been created on disused railway lines and offer flat, easy-going cycling.

The West Wood Trail at Farley Mount is a gentle 3.5 mile trail through peaceful woodland.
The New Forest National Park offers over a hundred miles of gravel tracks for cyclists across scented heathlands, woodland and picturesque villages.

Find out more about Family Cycling in Hampshire

Road Cycling in Hampshire

Sweeping country lanes, scenic countryside, sunken lanes and spectacular views are just some of the features you’d expect to see whilst road cycling in Hampshire. From the rolling south downs to picturesque chocolate box villages and quiet country lanes, there are many fantastic areas to explore. And the South also has its fair share of challenging hills to test keen riders.

Find out more about road cycling in Hampshire

Mountain Biking in Hampshire

The chalk downlands of Southern England provide some of the country’s iconic mountain biking. Whilst the 100 mile South Downs Way from Winchester to Eastbourne has almost legendary status, there’s so much more on offer.

Find out more about mountain biking in Hampshire

Cycling in the South Downs National Park

Whilst the 100 mile South Downs Way National Trail from Winchester to Eastbourne has almost legendary status, there’s so much more on offer.  This is one of the most popular destinations for both road and off-road cyclists in Southern England.You can explore the rolling hills, ancient woodland, water meadows and the bustling market towns of the South Downs National Park. Here you’ll find unspoilt rural villages, dramatic views, superb café stops and great pubs serving local beers and food.

A direct rail service from London to Petersfield places you in the heart of the western South Downs and opens up some fantastic on and off-road rides, including ‘Little Switzerland’ an area known for its mountainous feel.

Winchester also provides a perfect gateway to a range of superb cycling areas, including the beautiful Itchen and Meon Valleys with their watercress beds and trout streams. A wonderful network of quiet lanes allows riders to link pretty market towns such as Alresford, Bishops Waltham and Alton with their abundance of cafe stops.

Explore the New Forest National Park by Bike

The New Forest is a popular destination for road bike riders wanting to take advantage of its rolling open roads and easy accessibility. This has made it a favourite destination for sportive events. The New Forest National Park has over 100 miles of waymarked off-road cycling routes which are ideally suited to families and those looking for a more relaxed day-out. There are plenty of welcoming pubs such as the Oak Inn, Lyndhurst that is perfect for cyclists.

Whether you’re an expert or complete beginner you can also track cycle at Calshot Velodrome the only indoor banked velodrome just next to the New Forest

If you are looking to create your own route around the New Forest National Park, a good place to start is by downloading the New Forest Cycle Route Map.

Cycling in North Hampshire

The North Wessex Downs is an area of outstanding natural beauty in northern Hampshire, Wiltshire and Berkshire. These rolling chalk downlands make ideal on and off-road cycling territory and offer a comprehensive network of surprisingly quiet bridleways, country lanes, challenging climbs and stunning views.

This is the land of Watership Down and Walbury Hill, the highest point in Southern England. Close to mainline rail stations at Newbury, Basingstoke and Andover, this area is easily accessible from London and its surrounds.

Cycling in the Test Valley

Discover the quintessential Englishness of the Test Valley in West Hampshire. Follow the river Test as it meanders through ancient woodlands, tranquil water meadows and rolling chalk hills. The area is famous for its fly fishing and clear chalk streams of the Test, producing some of the finest trout in the UK. 

Road cycle around some of Hampshire’s most picturesque villages such as Wherwell, Chilbolton, Longstock and Longparish. Here you’ll find thatched cottages, welcoming country pubs and pretty bridges criss-crossing the Test. Stockbridge lies at the heart of the Test Valley, midway between Winchester and Salisbury and provides a fine place for a rest stop with an array of tea rooms and cafes. There’s also some great cycling to be had towards Salisbury in Wiltshire and its famous plain, with plenty of open rolling countryside.

Cycling Breaks and Holidays in Hampshire

A cycling holiday or break is one of the best ways to see the whole county over on your bike. Hampshire has a whole host of on road and off road cycle routes which make the county, it's accommodation, attractions and places to eat accessible by bike. Plan a route around the whole county or base yourself at one of Hampshire's cycle friendly accommodation providers and plan days out on your bike to the coast, to one of Hampshire's National Parks or one of Hampshire's amazing attactions. 

If you want to take the stress out of organising and running your own cycling trip or would prefer to cycle in the company of others, there a number of specialist cycling holiday and guided ride providers in Hampshire. 

Want to do a cycling break to Hampshire but can't travel with your bike? Do not fear there are a number of bike hire shops across the county.