The best traffic-free bike rides around Knight Reservoir

There are over 10 dedicated traffic-free gravel bike trails in the broader Knight Reservoir area, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and challenging routes to explore.

The trails in this region offer a diverse range of difficulties. You can find easy routes like the Hampton Court Bridge – Hampton Court Palace Gardens loop from Hersham, which is mostly flat. There are also moderate options, such as the Horses head sculpture – Prince's Coverts Gravel Path loop from Esher, and more difficult rides with significant elevation gain, like the View from Newlands Corner – View of Shere loop from Oxshott.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families. The Hampton Court Bridge – Hampton Court Palace Gardens loop from Hersham is an excellent easy option, offering a relatively flat and scenic ride perfect for a family outing. Another good choice is the Bushy Park Gravel Path – Chestnut Avenue, Bushy Park loop from Walton-on-Thames, which provides a pleasant, traffic-free experience within a historic park.

Many of the traffic-free gravel trails in the area pass through public parks and woodlands where dogs are generally welcome, often on a lead. Always check local signage for specific rules regarding dogs in nature reserves or private estates that the routes might traverse. For example, areas like Bushy Park are usually dog-friendly, but specific rules may apply to certain sections.

The routes offer a variety of scenic views, from historic parklands and riverside paths to elevated viewpoints. For instance, the View from Newlands Corner – View of Shere loop from Oxshott provides expansive vistas over the Surrey Hills. Other routes feature picturesque sections along the Thames and through ancient woodlands, offering a tranquil escape from urban life.

Yes, many of the recommended traffic-free gravel routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Horses head sculpture – Prince's Coverts Gravel Path loop from Esher and the Bushy Park Gravel Path – Chestnut Avenue, Bushy Park loop from Walton-on-Thames, which are both excellent circular options for exploring the area.

Parking is generally available near the starting points of many routes. For trails around Hampton Court or Bushy Park, public car parks are usually accessible. For routes starting in towns like Esher or Walton-on-Thames, town center parking facilities can be used. Always check local parking regulations and fees before your ride.

Many of the starting points for these traffic-free gravel routes are well-connected by public transport, particularly train services from London. Towns like Hampton Court, Esher, and Walton-on-Thames have train stations, making it convenient to access the trails without a car. Check national rail services for specific routes and timetables.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the trails, the beautiful scenery through woodlands and along rivers, and the variety of routes suitable for different fitness levels. The ability to escape the city and enjoy nature on well-maintained gravel paths is a recurring highlight.

Yes, several routes pass near or through towns and villages where you can find cafes, pubs, and other amenities. For example, routes around Hampton Court and Bushy Park offer opportunities to stop for refreshments. It's always a good idea to plan your route and check for establishments along the way if you intend to make a stop.

Spring and autumn are often considered the best times for gravel biking in this region. The weather is generally milder, and the natural scenery is particularly beautiful, with blooming flowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer can also be pleasant, but trails might be busier, and winter can be muddy or icy, requiring more caution.

While the guide focuses on traffic-free gravel trails in the broader region, the specific Knight and Bessborough Reservoirs in Surrey, England, are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest primarily for their birdlife. Public access for activities like gravel biking is generally not permitted directly around these reservoirs to protect their natural habitat. However, the surrounding areas offer numerous excellent traffic-free gravel routes.