The best traffic-free bike rides in Ringwood Forest
4.6
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10,517
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237
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No traffic touring cycling routes in Ringwood Forest traverse a landscape characterized by extensive pine forests and varied terrain. The area features gentle elevations, with no hills exceeding 200 meters, making it suitable for a range of cycling abilities. Disused railway lines and quiet country lanes offer scenic paths away from vehicle traffic. The South Fork of the Bad River also flows through parts of the forest, adding to the natural features.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in Ringwood…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
4.7
(13)
497
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(13)
516
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.9
(13)
501
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
99
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
63
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Ringwood Forest
Tips from the Community
Lovely place overall, but the visitor centre area can get very busy. We found the trails a bit tricky to locate at first—look out for the “dog wash area” and then the “bike hire” just after it; they’re good waypoints to find the trail access, which is to the right and slightly behind the visitor centre (when facing it from the car park). Also worth noting there’s free parking at Potterne Park, not far from the centre.
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The Through the Forest route is a great ride for somebody who has some basic off-road riding skills, but exciting enough for everyone. It’s a nice narrow single track that winds its way through a super cool forest with nice tight bends and turns. It is a good route for the younger riders too, as long as they have a decent amount of bike experience. Just follow the rectangular posts with blue arrows.
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Free parking spot. not many spaces though, so get here early if you don't want to be waiting for a spot.
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Very busy during the summer months, very muddy during the winter. pick your poison lol
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A pleasant section of the wooded area. nothing sketchy along this bit. a few sticky out roots if going off the track. Good tyres recommended.
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Enjoy a ride on an authentic steam train around Moors Valley Country Park. Carrying over 100,000 passengers annually, the railway provides a picturesque journey of just over a mile. Travel along the banks of Moors Lake, through tunnels, a forest incline, and a spiral loop around the play areas. The railway is run by an extended family team and many dedicated volunteers. With over 20 locomotives, many built in the railway workshop, it prides itself on providing an authentic steam railway experience. Opening times vary depending on the month. Times are mainly 1045am to latest of 5pm
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Moors Valley Country Park is a great place for a family day out. There is such a range of activities here, from Go Ape, to mountain bike trails, to fishing. The tracks for cycling range from wide open forest tracks to singletrack through the forest. There is also a bike park and pump track where you can test your bike handling skills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many traffic-free touring cycling routes are available in Ringwood Forest?
There are over 230 dedicated traffic-free touring cycling routes in Ringwood Forest, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. This includes more than 100 easy routes and over 100 moderate routes, ensuring a suitable ride for everyone.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Ringwood Forest?
Ringwood Forest offers a diverse mix of terrain, ideal for touring cyclists seeking quiet paths. You'll find extensive networks of managed trails, wide-open gravel tracks, and quiet country lanes. Many routes incorporate former railway lines, such as sections of the Castleman Trailway, providing smooth, scenic rides. While elevations are generally gentle, the varied surfaces cater to different bike types, including gravel, hybrid, and e-bikes.
Are there any family-friendly traffic-free cycling routes in Ringwood Forest?
Yes, Ringwood Forest is excellent for family cycling with many easy, traffic-free options. Routes like the Moors Valley Railway – Moors Valley Forest Trails loop from Moors Valley Country Park are particularly suitable, offering a gentle 10.7 km ride. The area's focus on managed trails and disused railway lines ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.
What attractions or points of interest can I find along the traffic-free touring routes?
Many routes pass by or lead to interesting attractions. You can explore the Castleman Trailway, a scenic gravel route, or visit Moors Valley Country Park, which features a Play Trail and the Moors Valley Tree Top Trail. The Through the Forest Trail is another popular highlight, offering a serene journey through the pine forests.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Ringwood Forest?
The spring and autumn months are generally ideal for touring cycling in Ringwood Forest. The weather is typically milder, and the forest scenery is particularly vibrant with new growth or autumnal colours. While routes are accessible year-round, these seasons offer comfortable temperatures and often less crowded trails.
Are there any circular traffic-free touring routes available?
Yes, many of the traffic-free routes in Ringwood Forest are designed as loops, providing convenient circular journeys. An example is the Through the Forest Singletrack – Through the Forest Trail loop from Ringwood Waldorf School, which offers a pleasant 16.5 km ride through the forest, bringing you back to your starting point.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the traffic-free routes in Ringwood Forest?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Ringwood Forest, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 740 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, car-free environment, the well-maintained trails, and the beautiful pine forests. The diversity of routes, from easy family rides to more moderate explorations, is also frequently highlighted.
Can I bring my dog on the traffic-free touring cycling routes?
Yes, many of the trails in Ringwood Forest are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy your touring cycle with your canine companion. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife or other trail users, and to check specific park regulations if entering designated country park areas like Moors Valley.
What is the typical distance of the easy traffic-free touring routes?
Easy traffic-free touring routes in Ringwood Forest vary in length, but many are designed for shorter, more relaxed rides. For instance, the Through the Forest Trail – Moors Valley Forest Trails loop from Ringwood Waldorf School is an easy 9.4 km route, perfect for a gentle outing. Other easy routes can extend up to around 20 km, such as the Through the Forest Trail – Moors Valley Forest Trails loop from Verwood at 21 km.
Are there any moderate difficulty traffic-free touring routes for more experienced cyclists?
Yes, for those seeking a bit more challenge, Ringwood Forest offers moderate traffic-free touring routes. The Pylon Path – Steep Forest Path loop from Ebblake Bridge is a moderate 22.5 km route with some elevation gain, providing a more engaging ride while still keeping you away from vehicular traffic.
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