The best cycling routes around Cann
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1,167
riders
187
rides
Touring cycling routes around Cann traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, rural countryside, and areas of woodland. The region offers varied terrain suitable for cycling, often featuring quiet country lanes and paths alongside rivers. Elevations are generally moderate, with some routes including steeper ascents and descents.
Best touring cycling routes around Cann
- The most popular touring cycling route is Spetisbury Old Railway Station – River Stour at Spetisbury loop from Shaftesbury, a 49.3 miles (79.3 km) trail that…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
5.0
(2)
21
riders
79.4km
05:20
750m
750m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(2)
14
riders
48.6km
03:14
570m
570m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
12
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
riders
44.0km
02:48
500m
500m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Historic Significance: It is a Grade I Listed Building (the highest level of protection), noted for its special architectural and historic interest. Age: The first record of the bridge dates back to 1334, suggesting its medieval origins, with parts of the current structure likely dating to the 15th century. Construction: It is built of coursed rubble and ashlar stone and features nine semi-circular arches. Widening: The bridge was widened in 1819. The upstream side is the original, medieval part and features triangular cut-waters which extend up to form pedestrian refuges. The downstream side is the later, plainer widening. Inscriptions: There is a reset stone on the east side of the bridge inscribed with the year 1719. Name Origin: The bridge is named Crawford Bridge because it carries the road from Spetisbury to Tarrant Crawford. The nearby area of Spetisbury was historically one of three manors, including Great Crawford.
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Single lane beware of on coming vehicles
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St Peter's Church is the oldest church in Shaftesbury, located at the top of the famous Gold Hill, right next to the ruins of Shaftesbury Abbey. It is a key historic building and a prominent part of the town's landscape. St Peter's Church was originally built in the 14th century to serve pilgrims visiting the nearby Shaftesbury Abbey. Due to economic hardships, such as the Black Death, its construction was prolonged, resulting in a mix of architectural styles, including Decorated and Perpendicular Gothic. The lower part of the tower is the oldest section of the current building. The nave and its arcades are from the 14th century, while the clerestory and the panelled oak roofs were added in the 15th and 16th centuries. The church also features a crypt under its south aisle. Decline and Restoration: By the late 19th century, St Peter's fell into disuse and disrepair. It was even used as a grain store during World War II. In 1971, it was officially declared redundant. However, a major restoration effort was launched by local groups, and in 1977, it was rededicated and became the parish church of Shaftesbury once again. It was the first church in the country to be re-established as a full-time parish church after being declared redundant.
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Holy Trinity Church in Shaftesbury is a Grade II listed building with a rich history, but it is no longer a consecrated place of worship. Today, it is known as the Trinity Centre, a vibrant community hub. The current building, designed in the Early English Gothic Revival style by the famous architect Sir George Gilbert Scott, was largely built between 1841 and 1842 on the site of an even older medieval church. The new building featured a 100-foot-tall western tower and a chancel that was added in 1908. It was the principal Anglican parish church in Shaftesbury for over a century, even as the nearby St Peter's Church fell into disuse. However, with declining congregation numbers, Holy Trinity was made redundant as a parish church in 1977. Its congregation was transferred back to the newly restored St Peter's Church, and the Holy Trinity building was sold. I find it weird how a church can be sold off to become a selection of business's, while still keeping its graveyard.
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Using the power of moving water to drive a mill wheel is an ancient invention of the human spirit of discovery, the origins of which can be traced back to times long past. Thanks to such a construction, a watercourse - natural or artificial - could simply replace human or animal muscle power with the power of the natural elements, for example to grind grain into corn or to press oil from fruit. There are essentially two different ways of driving watermills: * Either the flowing water simply hits the blades of the water wheel from below to set it in motion; or * the water is guided - usually through a so-called "mill channel" - above the wheel and falls onto the blades; this type of construction is more efficient due to natural gravity.
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Was nice to see the Hod from a distance. On a hike route I'd done Hambledon and Hod on same day, in really bad conditions. worth a go up there
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A very nice route indeed. Nothing too demanding at all. Give it a whirl!!!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Cann?
There are nearly 200 touring cycling routes available around Cann, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars.
What types of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Cann?
The routes around Cann traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, rural countryside, and areas of woodland. You'll often find yourself on quiet country lanes and paths alongside rivers. While elevations are generally moderate, some routes do include steeper ascents and descents.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Cann?
Yes, Cann offers a good selection of routes suitable for beginners. Out of nearly 200 routes, 36 are classified as easy. These routes typically feature gentler gradients and less challenging terrain, making them ideal for a relaxed ride.
What are some notable landmarks or scenic viewpoints I can discover while cycling in Cann?
While cycling around Cann, you can explore several interesting landmarks and scenic viewpoints. Highlights include Win Green Summit, the historic Hambledon Hill Iron Age hill fort, and Fontmell Down, all offering expansive views of the surrounding countryside.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling routes in the Cann area?
Yes, for those looking for a longer ride, the region offers routes like the Spetisbury Old Railway Station – River Stour at Spetisbury loop from Shaftesbury. This challenging route covers 49.3 miles (79.3 km) and explores the River Stour valley and former railway lines.
Where are good starting points for touring cycling routes around Cann?
Many popular touring cycling routes around Cann, including several featured in this guide, start from Shaftesbury. This town serves as a convenient base for exploring the surrounding countryside.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Cann?
Given the rolling hills and rural nature of Cann, spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it may be warmer. Winter cycling is possible but be prepared for colder, potentially wetter weather.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Cann?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Cann are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the moderate St Peter's Church, Shaftesbury – Gold Hill, Shaftesbury loop from Shaftesbury, which includes the iconic Gold Hill.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Cann?
The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Cann, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 70 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the quiet country lanes, and the opportunity to explore forested sections and river valleys.
Can you recommend a touring cycling route that goes through forested areas?
For a route that takes you through woodlands, consider the Narrow Forest Singletrack – King Alfred's Kitchen loop from Shaftesbury. This 30.2-mile (48.6 km) trail leads through forested sections, offering a different kind of scenic experience.
Are there any moderate touring cycling routes for experienced riders looking for a challenge?
Absolutely. The majority of routes in Cann, 115 out of nearly 200, are classified as moderate. These routes provide a good balance of distance and elevation, such as the St Peter's Church, Shaftesbury – Stalbridge Market Cross loop from Shaftesbury, which covers 36.3 miles (58.3 km).
Are there any touring cycling routes that pass by historical sites?
Yes, some routes will take you near historical sites. For instance, you might encounter areas close to ancient hill forts like Hod Hill or the ramparts of Hambledon Hill, offering glimpses into the region's past.
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