The best cycling routes in Ringwood Forest

Ringwood Forest offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 350 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and some more challenging trails.

The extensive pine forests of Ringwood Forest make it an enjoyable destination for touring cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Even in winter, the managed trails can be accessible, though some sections might be muddier after rain.

Yes, Ringwood Forest is very family-friendly and offers numerous easy routes. For instance, the Moors Valley Railway – Moors Valley Forest Trails loop from Moors Valley Country Park is an easy 10.7 km ride, perfect for a relaxed family outing. Moors Valley Country Park itself is designed with family activities in mind.

While elevations are generally gentle, some routes offer longer distances and varied terrain for experienced touring cyclists. The Castlemain Trailway – Lady Wimborne Bridge loop from St. Leonards and St. Ives is a moderate 48.5 km path that provides a longer journey through diverse forest scenery, ideal for those seeking a more extended ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 400 reviews. Reviewers often praise the serene environment of the extensive pine forests, the well-maintained managed trails, and the integrated recreational facilities, particularly within Moors Valley Country Park, which enhance the cycling experience.

Many of the touring cycling routes in Ringwood Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Through the Forest Singletrack – Through the Forest Trail loop from Ringwood Waldorf School, which is a 16.5 km circular trail navigating through the heart of the pine forest.

The routes primarily wind through extensive pine forests and managed landscapes. You can expect a mix of mostly paved surfaces and well-maintained forest trails. The terrain is generally gentle, with no significant climbs, making it suitable for touring bicycles.

Yes, Ringwood Forest is generally dog-friendly. Moors Valley Country Park, a central part of the forest, has designated trails where dogs are welcome, provided they are kept under control. Always check specific trail signage for any restrictions.

Moors Valley Country Park, located within Ringwood Forest, offers facilities including cafes and refreshment stops. While cycling through the wider forest, you might find options in nearby villages like Verwood or Ringwood, so it's advisable to plan your route accordingly or carry snacks and drinks.

Moors Valley Country Park provides ample parking facilities, which serve as a convenient starting point for many cycling routes within Ringwood Forest. Additionally, various trailheads and access points around the forest may offer parking, though availability can vary.

Beyond the cycling itself, Ringwood Forest and particularly Moors Valley Country Park offer several attractions. You can explore the Moors Valley Country Park — Play Trail, or discover the Castleman Trailway. The Through the Forest Trail also offers scenic views. These areas provide a blend of natural beauty and recreational facilities.

Access to Ringwood Forest and its cycling routes by public transport can be limited, as the area is primarily a natural forest setting. While some bus services might reach nearby towns like Ringwood or Verwood, direct access to trailheads often requires a short ride or walk from these points. Planning your journey in advance is recommended.

Absolutely! Moors Valley Country Park, a highlight within Ringwood Forest, offers a wealth of family-friendly activities. These include two large adventure play areas, Adventure Valley with Mini Land Rovers and Adventure Golf, Go Ape Treetop Adventures, and miniature steam train rides. The Play Trail also features Gruffalo and friends' sculptures, providing entertainment for younger visitors.

Given the forest environment, some unpaved sections of the touring cycling routes in Ringwood Forest can become muddy, especially after periods of heavy rain. However, many routes, particularly those within Moors Valley Country Park, feature well-maintained and often paved surfaces, which are less prone to mud. The Pylon Path – Steep Forest Path loop from Ebblake Bridge, for example, offers varied terrain where conditions might change.