The best gravel rides around East Hampshire

East Hampshire offers nearly 40 gravel bike trails, providing a diverse range of options for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars.

You'll find a varied landscape perfect for gravel biking, including forest gravel tracks, bridleways, quiet country roads, and chalk paths. The region is characterized by rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and sections within the South Downs National Park, offering both smooth stretches and more challenging off-road experiences.

Yes, East Hampshire has several easy gravel bike routes. For instance, the Gravel loop from Clanfield is a shorter, less demanding option. Many routes also incorporate sections of the Meon Valley Trail or the Liss Riverside Railway Path, which are generally flatter and more accessible.

Many routes offer stunning views, especially those traversing the South Downs National Park. You might encounter elevated vistas from areas like Old Winchester Hill or Harting Down. Highlights such as Butser Hill, the highest point on the South Downs, and the View from Small Down offer panoramic scenery. The region also features picturesque chalk streams and water meadows in the Meon Valley.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in East Hampshire are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Harting Down National Trail – View from Cocking Down loop from Clanfield and the Great Ridge Trail – Harting Down loop from Liphook, which offer extensive loops through varied terrain.

While specific routes aren't explicitly designed around pub stops, East Hampshire's charming rural setting means many villages along the trails offer pubs and cafes. The Cadence Café – Cadence Café loop from Petersfield is an example of a route that starts and ends at a known cycling-friendly spot, and you'll often find opportunities for refreshments in towns like Petersfield or Liss.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in East Hampshire, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be excellent, though some chalk paths might be dustier. Winter rides are possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy sections, especially in wooded areas, and shorter daylight hours.

Absolutely. The Woolmer Ranges Gravel Track and the Liss Riverside Railway Path are well-known for their dedicated gravel surfaces. Additionally, sections of the King Alfred's Way and routes through Queen Elizabeth Country Park provide excellent gravel riding opportunities.

Many trailheads, especially those starting from towns like Petersfield, Clanfield, or Liphook, offer parking facilities. For public transport, train stations in towns like Petersfield and Liss provide access to the region, and some routes are accessible directly from these points. It's advisable to check specific route starting points for detailed parking and public transport information.

The komoot community highly rates East Hampshire's gravel biking, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Riders frequently praise the diverse terrain, from ancient woodlands to open chalk paths, and the stunning views across the South Downs National Park. The extensive network of trails, catering to various fitness levels, is also a popular highlight.

Yes, East Hampshire offers several challenging routes for experienced gravel bikers. The Old Winchester Hill – Meon Valley Trail loop from Petersfield, for example, is a difficult 46.3-mile route with significant elevation changes and extensive views. Other difficult options include the Cadence Café – Graffham Down Nature Reserve loop from Petersfield, which features over 1,100 meters of ascent.