The best gravel rides around Newtown

Newtown offers a good selection of gravel biking routes, with 14 trails currently available. These include 8 moderate and 6 more difficult options, providing variety for different skill levels.

While most routes are moderate to difficult, beginners can find suitable options. For example, the Crookham Common Gravel Trail – Greenham Common Bunkers loop from Thatcham is rated as easy and covers 21.6 km, offering a gentle introduction to gravel biking in the area.

For a more challenging ride, consider the Crookham Common Gravel Trail – Greenham Common Bunkers loop from Wash Common. This 31.9 km route is rated difficult and features common land and historical bunkers, providing a good test for experienced riders.

The duration varies depending on the route and your pace. Shorter, easier trails like the Crookham Common Gravel Trail – Greenham Common Bunkers loop from Thatcham can take around 1 hour 34 minutes. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Kintbury Canal Side – Kennet and Avon Canal Path loop from Newbury Racecourse, might take over 2 hours 30 minutes.

For families, routes with flatter sections and well-maintained paths are ideal. The Crookham Common Gravel Trail – Greenham Common Bunkers loop from Thatcham is an easy option that could be suitable, offering a mix of gravel paths and open common land without significant elevation.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes around Newtown are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Kennet and Avon Canal – Nunhide Lane Gravel Track loop from Thatcham and the View from Combe Gibbet – Combe Gibbet on Gallows Down loop from Newbury Racecourse.

Absolutely. The region boasts several scenic spots. The View from Combe Gibbet – Combe Gibbet on Gallows Down loop from Newbury Racecourse is specifically designed to take you past stunning vistas. Other highlights offering great views include Grimsbury Castle Hillfort and View from Plantation Hill.

While specific routes aren't always designed around refreshment stops, the area does have options. The The Rowbarge pub is a notable highlight in the region, and many routes pass through or near villages where you might find local establishments.

The trails often pass by historical and natural landmarks. You can explore sites like the Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort, the Greenham Common Control Tower, or the challenging Watership Down Climb. Many routes also follow the scenic Kennet and Avon Canal.

The gravel biking routes in Newtown are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 5 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, which includes countryside paths, common land, and canal-side sections, offering diverse and enjoyable experiences.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Newtown, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be good, but be prepared for potentially warmer weather. Winter rides are possible, but trails may be muddier and require appropriate gear.

Many of the public bridleways and common land paths around Newtown are suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept under control. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock. The common land sections, such as those found on the Crookham Common Gravel Trail, are often popular with dog walkers and cyclists alike.