The best road cycling routes around Little Thurlow
4.1
(47)
2,585
riders
254
rides
Road cycling routes around Little Thurlow traverse a landscape characterized by country roads, agricultural fields, and small villages. The area features gently undulating terrain, offering a mix of flat sections and mild ascents suitable for road cyclists. Routes often connect market towns and pass by local landmarks like parish churches and country parks.
Best road cycling routes around Little Thurlow
- The most popular road cycling route is Country Road Through Ashdon loop from Haverhill, a 29.1 miles (46.9 km)…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
4.3
(4)
75
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
61
riders
47.9km
01:58
300m
300m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5.0
(2)
35
riders
44.6km
01:50
250m
250m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
3.0
(3)
30
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
29
riders
50.0km
02:05
300m
300m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Now in a new and much better location on the High Street in Clare. Pastry lovers (and coffee lovers) should make a trip to Small Town a priority!
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Beware: management does not welcome cyclists, and do not want cycles near enough to the cafe to keep an eye on while you’re there. Bring a lock or avoid.
1
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Now relocated around the corner to larger premises on the High Street. No cycle parking out front but they have a back garden and they're happy for cyclists (even a group of 10!) to wheel your bike through the cafe to the garden.
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A lovely cafe serving a selection of cakes and savouries - their scotch eggs!! They also serve breakfast sandwiches, frittatas and all the usual hot / cold drinks - their coffee beans are roasted locally, the fizzy drinks are from indie producers and there is a theme of sustainability running through everything they do. There is a lunch menu but I've not been late enough to see it! They also make celebration cakes to order!
1
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Someone in the Cambs highways department clearly has a sense of humour. 😂 One of the best sign combinations I’ve seen.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Little Thurlow?
There are over 250 road cycling routes available around Little Thurlow, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and some more challenging options to explore the local countryside.
What is the typical terrain for road cycling in Little Thurlow?
The terrain around Little Thurlow is characterized by gently undulating country roads, agricultural fields, and charming small villages. You can expect a pleasant mix of flatter sections and mild ascents, making it suitable for a diverse range of road cyclists.
Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Little Thurlow?
Yes, Little Thurlow offers a good selection of easy routes perfect for beginners. For instance, the Clare Parish Church – Clare Castle Country Park loop from Haverhill is an easy 27.4-mile (44.1 km) ride that takes you through pleasant scenery without significant climbs.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Little Thurlow?
The routes in Little Thurlow are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet country roads, varied scenery connecting villages and market towns, and the overall pleasant experience of riding through the agricultural landscape.
Are there any circular road cycling routes around Little Thurlow?
Many of the road cycling routes in the Little Thurlow area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Country Road Through Ashdon loop from Haverhill, a moderate 29.1-mile (46.9 km) route that offers a complete circuit through rural scenery.
What are some scenic viewpoints or interesting landmarks to see while cycling?
While cycling around Little Thurlow, you'll encounter various local landmarks and scenic spots. Routes often pass by parish churches and country parks. For specific points of interest, consider visiting Rivey Hill Water Tower, which also features an off-road climb, or exploring the quiet lanes like Quiet Lane Between Sturmer and Steeple Bumpstead.
Are there routes that include stops for refreshments like pubs or cafes?
Yes, many routes in the Little Thurlow area connect charming villages and market towns, offering opportunities for refreshment stops. You might pass by places like The Fox Inn in Ousden or The Old Butchers Coffee Shop, perfect for a break during your ride. The Smalltown Coffee | Bread – Clare Parish Church loop from Haverhill is an example of a route that could incorporate such stops.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Little Thurlow?
The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Little Thurlow. During these seasons, you can expect milder weather, longer daylight hours, and the countryside to be at its most vibrant, making for an enjoyable riding experience.
Are there any hidden gem routes or less-trafficked roads for road cyclists?
The Little Thurlow area is known for its network of quiet country roads, making many routes feel like hidden gems. The region's agricultural landscape means you'll often find peaceful stretches away from main thoroughfares. Routes like The Straight Climb – Winding Road into Balsham loop from Haverhill offer open countryside and gentle hills, providing a serene cycling experience.
What are the typical distances and durations for road cycling routes in this area?
Road cycling routes around Little Thurlow vary in length, but many popular options range from 25 to 30 miles (40 to 50 km), typically taking between 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours to complete. For example, the Country Road Through Ashdon – Saffron Walden — Market Town loop from Weston Colville is 26.9 miles (43.3 km) and takes around 1 hour 50 minutes.
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