The best gravel rides in Berkshire

Berkshire offers over 20 gravel bike trails, providing a diverse landscape for riders. These routes feature a mix of canal paths, open common lands, and rolling hills, catering to various skill levels.

Yes, Berkshire has several routes suitable for families. The canal paths, in particular, offer generally flat and scenic rides. An excellent easy option is the Crookham Common Gravel Trail – Greenham Common Bunkers loop from Thatcham, which explores open common land and historical sites over 13.4 miles.

You can expect a varied terrain, including flat sections along the Kennet and Avon Canal, paths across historic common areas, and sections of ancient tracks like the Ridgeway. The routes offer a balanced experience with both scenic stretches and gentle ascents.

For those seeking longer rides, Berkshire offers several options. The Ridgeway Track to Streatley – Goring Lock and Weir loop from Beenham is a challenging 30.8-mile trail that leads through the historic Ridgeway Track and along the River Thames. Another option is the Theale Lake – Kennet and Avon Canal loop from Thatcham, covering over 24 miles.

Many routes pass by interesting landmarks and natural features. You might encounter Hosehill Lake or Thatcham Lake. The Ridgeway Track to Streatley – Goring Lock and Weir loop from Beenham takes you near the Whitchurch Bridge over the River Thames. The View from Combe Gibbet – Combe Gibbet on Gallows Down loop from Newbury Racecourse offers views from Combe Gibbet.

Yes, most of the featured gravel bike routes in Berkshire are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Kennet and Avon Canal – Nunhide Lane Gravel Track loop from Thatcham and the River Lambourn at Bagnor – Kintbury Canal Side loop from Kintbury.

Berkshire's gravel trails are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. While some routes are suitable for winter, it's always advisable to check local weather conditions and trail reports, especially after heavy rain, as canal paths and unpaved sections can become muddy.

Yes, Berkshire offers routes with more challenging elevation gains and varied terrain for advanced riders. The Ridgeway Track to Streatley – Goring Lock and Weir loop from Beenham, for instance, is rated as difficult with significant elevation changes. Another challenging option is the Crookham Common Gravel Trail – Greenham Common Bunkers loop from Wash Common.

Many of Berkshire's gravel routes pass through or near charming villages and towns, offering opportunities for pub or cafe stops. Routes along the Kennet and Avon Canal, for example, often have amenities nearby. While specific stops aren't listed in every route description, planning your ride through areas like Thatcham or Kintbury will likely provide options.

The komoot community highly rates gravel biking in Berkshire, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 17 reviews. Riders often praise the region's diverse landscape, the mix of canal paths and common lands, and the balance of easy and more challenging sections. The historical sites and scenic waterways are also frequently highlighted.

Parking is generally available near the starting points of many routes, especially in towns like Thatcham, Newbury, or Hungerford. For instance, routes starting from Thatcham or Newbury Racecourse typically have accessible parking options. It's always recommended to check specific parking details for your chosen starting location before your ride.

Absolutely. For beginners, routes that primarily follow the Kennet and Avon Canal are ideal due to their relatively flat profile. The Kintbury Canal Side – Kennet and Avon Canal Path loop from Newbury Racecourse is a moderate 20.6-mile route that offers a good introduction to gravel biking in the area without excessive climbing.