The best gravel rides around Bentley

Bentley offers nearly 20 diverse gravel bike trails, catering to various skill levels. These routes explore woodlands, common lands, and canal paths, providing a rich cycling experience.

Yes, Bentley has several easy routes. A great option for beginners or families is the Mytchett Lake Road Bridge – Ash Lock (Basingstoke Canal) loop from Fleet. This 14.6-mile (23.4 km) trail follows canal-side paths, offering a relatively flat and scenic ride.

For a more challenging experience, consider the Frensham Ponds, Thursley Common & Hankley Common loops from Farnham. This route spans 28.8 miles (46.4 km) with over 400 meters of elevation gain, featuring varied terrain across common lands and around ponds.

Many of the gravel routes around Bentley are circular. For example, the Longmoor Ranges Fire Roads – Woolmer Ranges Gravel Track loop from Kingsley is a moderate 22.3-mile (35.9 km) circular path exploring fire roads and gravel tracks. Another option is the Ash Lock (Basingstoke Canal) – Mytchett Lake Road Bridge loop from Hart, a 36.9 km circular route.

Bentley's gravel routes often pass through picturesque areas. You can find stunning vistas at viewpoints like Stony Jump Viewpoint and Crooksbury Hill Viewpoint. The trails also offer views of common lands, woodlands, and the tranquil Basingstoke Canal.

The gravel biking routes around Bentley are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over a dozen reviews. Riders frequently praise the diverse terrain, from quiet woodlands to open common lands, and the well-maintained canal paths.

Yes, the area is rich in attractions. You can explore historical sites like Odiham Castle Ruins and Farnham Castle Keep. Natural highlights include Frensham Little Pond and the ancient Yew Tree at St. Mary’s Church.

While specific cafe or pub stops are not detailed for every route, the region's mix of natural and semi-urban environments means many trails are within reach of local amenities. Routes near towns like Farnham or Fleet, such as the Alice Holt Gravel Trail – View of Rural Landscape loop from Wrecclesham, often have options nearby for refreshments.

Gravel biking in Bentley is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also great, though some trails might be busier. Winter rides are possible, but be prepared for potentially muddier sections, especially in woodland areas.

Bentley is well-connected by rail, with Bentley station providing access to the area. Many routes start from nearby towns like Farnham or Fleet, which are also accessible by public transport. It's advisable to check local bus routes for closer access points to specific trailheads.

Parking is generally available at or near the starting points of many popular routes, especially those originating from towns or well-known recreational areas. For example, routes around Frensham Ponds or Alice Holt Forest typically have designated parking areas. Always check local signage for any parking restrictions or fees.