The best cycling routes around Enborne
4.5
(118)
1,538
riders
250
rides
Touring cycling routes around Enborne are situated in a rural parish within West Berkshire, England, characterized by its tranquil setting and low-traffic minor roads. The region features the meandering River Enborne and is adjacent to the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), offering varied terrain from chalk downland to woodlands. The Kennet and Avon Canal, a significant waterway, also runs nearby, providing largely flat, car-free paths. This landscape provides a mix of gentle canal-side routes and more…
Last updated: June 17, 2026
5.0
(1)
25
riders
16.7km
01:09
60m
60m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
15
riders
21.2km
01:25
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
11
riders
21.1km
01:23
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
22.1km
01:39
250m
250m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
7
riders
32.9km
02:40
450m
450m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
IT’S NOW A FLOWER SHOP - don’t do this route if you are expecting a bakery.
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If you’re looking for a spot with a "dark history meets beautiful views" vibe, Combe Gibbet is exactly that. Perched high on Gallows Down (the name gives it away, doesn't it?) on the border of Berkshire and Hampshire, it’s one of the most atmospheric places in the North Wessex Downs. Here’s the story behind this lonely landmark: The "Double Trouble" Origin Story The gibbet isn't just a random decoration; it was built in 1676 for a very specific and grim reason. A local man named George Broomham and his mistress, Dorothy Newman, were convicted of murdering George's wife and son. As a warning to others, the authorities built a massive double-arm gibbet to hang them in chains right on the parish boundary. The one you see today is a replica (the 7th or 8th version!), but it stands in the exact same spot, looking quite eerie against the skyline. Why It’s Actually a Lovely Visit Despite the macabre history, people flock here for reasons that have nothing to do with 17th-century crime: The Views: Because it sits on the crest of the ridge (near Walbury Hill, the highest point in South East England), you can see for miles. On a clear day, you can look across the Kennet Valley all the way to the Cotswolds. The Paragliders: It’s a legendary spot for paragliding and hang-gliding. It’s incredibly relaxing to sit in the grass and watch them launch off the steep scarp and circle over the valley like giant birds. Ancient History: The gibbet is actually built on top of a Neolithic Long Barrow (a 5,000-year-old burial mound). So, it’s been a significant "high place" for humans for a very, very long time.
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Replacements and Legacy: The original gibbet from 1676 eventually deteriorated. The current gibbet is actually the seventh to stand on the site. Previous versions were replaced due to rotting, being struck by lightning, vandalism, or being blown down by strong winds. The current replica was erected in 1992. While the gibbet was only ever used for the display of George Bromham and Dorothy Newman, its grim history has made it a local landmark and a popular spot for walkers, hang-gliders, and paragliders, offering expansive views across Berkshire, Hampshire, and Wiltshire. The story of the murders even inspired a 1948 silent film called "The Black Legend," made by a young John Schlesinger.
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The Gibbet's Purpose: After their execution, their bodies were brought back to Inkpen and prepared for public display. A large, double gibbet was hastily erected on the long barrow. The bodies of George and Dorothy, bound in chains, were then displayed on either side of the gibbet on March 6, 1676, as a stark and gruesome warning to the local community to deter similar crimes. The location was chosen due to its prominence and being on the border of the two parishes, as there was a dispute over which parish should bear the cost of the gibbet.
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The Murders and Gibbeting: The Crime: George Bromham, a married farm labourer from Combe, and Dorothy Newman, a widow from Inkpen, were having an illicit affair. To be together, they murdered George's wife, Martha Bromham, and their son, Robert. Accounts vary, but it's believed they waylaid Martha and Robert and beat them to death with staves near where the gibbet now stands. One dramatic, though likely far-fetched, version suggests George killed his wife by thrusting her head into a hornet's nest. The Witness: The crime was reportedly witnessed by a villager known as "Mad Thomas," who alerted the authorities. Trial and Execution: George Bromham and Dorothy Newman were tried at Winchester Assizes. They were found guilty and hanged in Winchester on March 3, 1676.
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Newbury is in Berkshire, not Hampshire, and the canal never enters Hampshire either.
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Any climb is generally worth it for the views at the top, this is in the top few for a far reaching vista.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Enborne?
Enborne offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 260 options available. These routes cater to various preferences, ranging from easy canal-side paths to more challenging rides through the rolling hills of the North Wessex Downs.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Enborne?
You can expect a diverse range of terrain. Many routes follow the largely flat, car-free towpath of the Kennet and Avon Canal. However, venturing into the broader North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) will introduce you to rolling hills, chalk downland, and woodlands, offering more undulating and challenging sections. The area also features tranquil, low-traffic minor roads.
What are the difficulty levels of touring cycling routes in Enborne?
The routes around Enborne offer a good mix of difficulty levels. Approximately 66 routes are classified as easy, perfect for a relaxed ride. There are 141 moderate routes for those seeking a bit more challenge, and 60 difficult routes for experienced touring cyclists looking for significant climbs and longer distances.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy about the routes in Enborne?
The touring cycling routes in Enborne are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 120 reviews. Cyclists often praise the tranquil setting, the scenic beauty of the Kennet and Avon Canal, and the varied landscapes of the North Wessex Downs. The low-traffic minor roads are also a frequently appreciated feature.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Enborne?
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Enborne are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the View of North Wessex Downs – View of Wayfarer's Walk loop from Enborne offers a challenging 22 km ride with significant elevation, while the View of Wayfarer's Walk – View from Sandpits Down loop from Enborne is a longer, difficult option at 32.7 km.
What interesting landmarks or natural features can I see while cycling around Enborne?
The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can encounter impressive viewpoints such as View from White Hill and View of North Wessex Downs. Historical sites like Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort and Grimsbury Castle Hillfort are also accessible. The Kennet and Avon Canal itself features historic locks, and the iconic Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey filming location) is just three miles from Enborne.
Are the touring cycling routes in Enborne suitable for families?
Many of the easy routes, particularly those along the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath, are well-suited for families. These paths are largely flat and car-free, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists of all ages. The Kintbury Canal Side loop from Newbury is an easy 16.7 km option that follows the canal.
Can I bring my dog on touring cycling routes in Enborne?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes, especially those along the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath and quiet rural lanes, are suitable for cycling with a dog, provided your dog is well-behaved and on a lead where necessary. Always be mindful of other path users and local regulations.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in Enborne?
While Enborne itself is a rural parish, the nearby town of Newbury, just three miles away, offers various parking options. From Newbury, you can easily access routes that lead into Enborne or along the Kennet and Avon Canal.
Is public transport available to access touring cycling routes in Enborne?
Newbury, located close to Enborne, is well-connected by public transport, including train services. Many routes can be started from Newbury, allowing you to combine public transport with your cycling adventure. Always check if your chosen public transport allows bikes onboard.
Are there cafes or pubs along the touring cycling routes in Enborne?
Yes, the touring cycling routes often pass through charming villages and market towns, particularly along the Kennet and Avon Canal and within the North Wessex Downs. These settlements provide opportunities for refreshment at local cafes and traditional pubs, perfect for a break during your ride.
What is the best time to visit Enborne for touring cycling?
The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Enborne, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. The landscapes are particularly vibrant during these seasons. However, the canal towpaths can be enjoyed year-round, weather permitting.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling options from Enborne?
Absolutely. Enborne's proximity to the Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath (National Cycle Network Route 4) provides access to a significant long-distance route. This path stretches approximately 140 km (87 miles) from Bristol to Reading, offering a largely flat and scenic journey. You can also connect to sections of the Wiltshire Cycleway within the North Wessex Downs for extended rides.
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