The best gravel rides around Harston
4.5
(35)
97
riders
7
rides
Gravel biking around Harston offers a diverse landscape characterized by low-lying terrain, gentle elevations, and a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces. The region features expansive agricultural fields, interspersed with woodlands, and picturesque riverside paths along the River Rhee. Subtle chalk hills, such as St Margaret's Mount (43m) and Rowley's Hill (50m), add interest without being overly strenuous. The underlying geology includes gault near the river and chalk to the south-east, overlaid with valley gravels in many areas.
Best gravel…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.6
(7)
15
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(8)
18
riders
48.0km
02:58
190m
190m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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4.5
(8)
32
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(10)
19
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
11
riders
44.7km
02:40
290m
290m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Small village really worth visiting on a bike tour with several nice houses.
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The Windmill at Fulbourn stands on an outlier of the Gog Magog Hills 4 miles east of the City of Cambridge. Low chalk hills run to the south of it; northwards the Windmill overlooks the Fens which are at most only a few feet above sea level. The cap of the Windmill rises to 160 feet above sea-level and from it there is an uninterrupted view of the roofs and towers of Ely Cathedral. It has long been an outstanding landmark in the south Cambridgeshire countryside. It was the enclosure of the parish for the improvement of cultivation that led to the building of the present Windmill. Much of the land in the north of the parish was low-lying and waterlogged and needed draining to convert it into profitable arable land. Fulbourn Fen was a peat fen only 20 feet above sea level over which the Great Wilbraham River spread its waters in times of flood. The Act of Enclosure for Fulbourn was passed in 1806 and the Commissioners completed their work two years later. The drainage of the parish reduced the level of water in the upper reaches of the Great Wilbraham River on which the manorial watermill was situated. The loss of power brought to an end the life of a mill which had first been recorded in Domesday Book. In 1808 the machinery of the watermill was put up for sale. A new mill was therefore needed and the Enclosure Commissioners allotted one acre on Mill Hill, on which to build a mill and miller’s cottage, to John Chaplin, a considerable landowner and farmer. He used copies of Old Moore’s Almanack as a diary, entering personal events and business notes in the margins of the calendar. In 1808 he recorded against 11 July, ‘I laid the first brick of my mill’; 22 November, ‘Mill sails put up’; 15 December, ‘Began grinding’. It is a large octagonal smock mill with a brick base and wooden superstructure. Its outline is squat with a shallow conical cap. The fantail, as usual in Cambridgeshire mills, is close against the cap. The mill holds three stones, one of French burr and two of Derbyshire stone. With floors 24 feet in diameter, there is exceptional space for working the mill. (https://fulbournwindmill.org.uk/history.html)
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Great double-track circumventing Hauxton High St, incl. underpass of M1, leading all the way to Great Shelford
0
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After being closed for 9 months, the bakery has reopened as a cafe/deli. There’s not really anywhere to park a bike but you can prop a couple outside while you sit at the bar just inside the door. Great coffee, pastries, cakes & toasties. Open Wed-Fri 9am-4pm, Sat 9am-2pm.
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Haslingfield is a charming, thriving village in South Cambridgeshire. It has two beautiful churches, a number of quaint properties, and a pleasant, serene village ambience. The village easily dates back to mediaeval times, and even Queen Elizabeth I stayed here back in 1564.
2
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Delicious freshly baked pastries and cakes, and good coffee too. Opposite you can sit in the garden and browse the art gallery. Highly recommend
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Harston?
Harston offers a selection of over 20 gravel bike trails, providing a diverse range of options for riders. These routes include a good mix of easy, moderate, and some more challenging paths.
What kind of terrain will I encounter on Harston's gravel bike trails?
You can expect a varied landscape around Harston, ideal for gravel biking. The routes feature a blend of paved roads, unpaved segments, and trails winding through expansive agricultural fields, small woodlands, and picturesque riverside paths along the River Rhee. While largely low-lying, you'll also find gentle chalk hills, adding subtle elevation changes to your ride.
Are there any easy gravel bike trails suitable for beginners or families in Harston?
Yes, Harston has several easy gravel bike trails perfect for beginners or family outings. Out of the available routes, 11 are classified as easy, offering gentle terrain and manageable distances. These routes often follow riverside paths or quieter country lanes, providing a pleasant experience for all skill levels.
What are some scenic points of interest or landmarks I can see while gravel biking near Harston?
Many routes around Harston offer scenic views and connect to interesting landmarks. You might cycle past historic villages like Hauxton and Haslingfield, or explore the natural beauty of the River Rhee. Some trails also lead towards the historic Wimpole Estate. Additionally, you can find highlights like the DNA Path Rainbow Cycleway and the Cambridge Guided Busway Cycle Path, which are popular sections of many routes.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the trails in Harston?
The gravel bike trails around Harston are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 40 reviews. Riders frequently praise the diverse terrain, which combines paved and unpaved sections, and the peaceful scenery of agricultural fields, woodlands, and riverside paths. The ability to create 'epic loops' that connect various landscapes is also a highlight for many.
Are there any challenging gravel bike routes for experienced riders in Harston?
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, Harston offers a few more demanding routes. For instance, the Wimpole Estate – Wimpole Hall loop from Shepreth is classified as difficult, covering 17.1 miles (27.5 km) and featuring moderate elevation gains through agricultural fields to the historic estate.
Where can I park my car when visiting Harston for gravel biking?
While specific parking areas for gravel biking in Harston are not detailed in the guide, the village itself has local parking options. Many routes start from nearby towns like Cambridge, which offer various parking facilities. It's advisable to check local council websites or parking apps for the most current information on parking availability and restrictions in Harston or your chosen starting point.
Can I access Harston's gravel bike trails using public transport?
Harston is accessible by public transport, particularly buses connecting it to Cambridge and other nearby villages. Many gravel routes in the area, such as the DNA Path Rainbow Cycleway – Southern Busway Cycle Path loop from Cambridge, are designed as loops starting from Cambridge, which is well-served by train and bus networks. This makes it convenient to reach the starting points of many trails without a car.
Are there any cafes or pubs along the gravel bike routes in Harston?
While the guide doesn't specify exact cafe or pub locations on every route, Harston and its neighboring villages like Hauxton and Haslingfield are known for their local amenities. Many routes connect these charming villages, making it likely you'll find opportunities for refreshment stops. It's a good idea to check local listings for cafes and pubs in the villages you plan to pass through.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Harston?
Harston's gravel trails can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. The mixed terrain, including unpaved sections, means conditions can vary with weather. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. While winter riding is possible, some unpaved paths might become muddy. Summer provides longer daylight hours, but can also be warmer. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any long-distance gravel cycling routes near Harston?
Yes, Harston's location allows for longer rides that connect to broader networks. For example, the A1301 Cycle Path – DNA Path Rainbow Cycleway loop from Cambridge is a substantial 27.8 miles (44.8 km) route, offering a good option for those looking for a longer gravel adventure. The interconnected nature of the trails also allows for combining shorter routes into extended journeys.
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