The South of England is a bikepacking paradise, offering a mix of ancient trails, rolling countryside, coastal paths, and historic landmarks. Whether you’re looking for a multi-day adventure or a weekend escape, these top bikepacking routes in Southern England will take you through some of the most scenic landscapes in the country.
1️⃣ King Alfred’s Way – The Ultimate Southern England Loop 🏰🚲
📍 Start: Winchester (Winchester Cathedral)
📌 Google Maps: Click Here
✅ Distance: 350 km (217 miles)
✅ Duration: 3-5 days
✅ Terrain: Gravel, bridleways, forest trails, ancient Roman roads
✅ Difficulty: Intermediate
🚴♂️ Why Ride It?
• A stunning circular route passing through the South Downs, Ridgeway, and Salisbury Plain.
• Takes you past Stonehenge, Winchester Cathedral, and Avebury’s ancient stone circles.
• Mostly off-road, with a mix of gravel paths, chalk trails, and quiet countryside lanes.
📌 Best for: Gravel bike enthusiasts and history lovers wanting a scenic, historical adventure with plenty of variety.
🛏️ Accommodation: Wild camping (where legal), B&Bs, or campsites along the route.
2️⃣ South Downs Way – The Classic Chalk Ridge Ride ⛰️🌿
📍 Start: Winchester (South Downs Way Trailhead)
📌 Google Maps: Click Here
✅ Distance: 160 km (100 miles)
✅ Duration: 2-3 days
✅ Terrain: Chalk trails, gravel paths, rolling hills
✅ Difficulty: Challenging
🚴♂️ Why Ride It?
• One of the UK’s most famous off-road routes, running from Winchester to Eastbourne.
• Spectacular ridge views across the Sussex and Hampshire countryside.
• Mostly gravel and chalk paths, with some steep climbs but rewarding descents.
📌 Best for: Riders looking for a tough but scenic multi-day ride through some of the most beautiful countryside in the South.
💡 Tip: Pack extra water, as refueling stops can be spread out.
3️⃣ The Ridgeway – Britain’s Oldest Road 🏛️🚲
📍 Start: Avebury (Avebury Stone Circle)
📌 Google Maps: Click Here
✅ Distance: 139 km (87 miles)
✅ Duration: 2-3 days
✅ Terrain: Gravel, bridleways, historic paths
✅ Difficulty: Intermediate
🚴♂️ Why Ride It?
• Follows a 5,000-year-old route used since prehistoric times.
• Passes through the Chiltern Hills and North Wessex Downs, with rolling landscapes and ancient landmarks.
• Mix of gravel tracks, farm trails, and forest paths, making it great for gravel and hardtail MTB riders.
📌 Best for: Riders wanting to experience Britain’s oldest trail with a mix of history, nature, and quiet countryside.
4️⃣ The New Forest Explorer – Woodland Bikepacking Bliss 🌲🦌
📍 Start: Lyndhurst (New Forest Visitor Centre)
📌 Google Maps: Click Here
✅ Distance: 100-150 km (Customizable)
✅ Duration: 1-2 days
✅ Terrain: Gravel, forest tracks, heathland trails
✅ Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate
🚴♂️ Why Ride It?
• Perfect for beginners or a relaxed weekend escape.
• Ride through ancient woodlands, open heathlands, and wild ponies roaming free.
• Plenty of campsites and cozy pubs along the way for easy stopovers.
📌 Best for: Bikepackers looking for a gentle, scenic ride with plenty of wildlife and nature.
💡 Tip: The New Forest’s cycling routes are well-marked and family-friendly.
5️⃣ The Jurassic Coast Ride – A Coastal Bikepacking Gem 🌊🦖
📍 Start: Exeter (Exeter Quay)
📌 Google Maps: Click Here
✅ Distance: 170 km (105 miles)
✅ Duration: 2-3 days
✅ Terrain: Coastal paths, bridleways, country lanes
✅ Difficulty: Intermediate
🚴♂️ Why Ride It?
• Stunning coastal cliffs, hidden coves, and fossil-filled beaches along the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast.
• Mix of quiet roads, gravel trails, and rugged coastal sections.
• Ride from Exeter to Poole via Lyme Regis, Durdle Door, and Lulworth Cove.
📌 Best for: Bikepackers who love seaside views and coastal adventures with a mix of terrains.
💡 Tip: Expect some hilly sections—the coastline isn’t flat!
🌟 Bonus: Shorter Bikepacking Getaways in the South of England
🔹 Isle of Wight Loop (105 km / 65 miles) – A scenic island adventure with coastal views.
📍 Start: Ryde Pier Head
📌 Google Maps: Click Here
🔹 The Chiltern Hills Gravel Ride (80 km / 50 miles) – A rolling countryside escape near London.
📍 Start: Wendover Woods
📌 Google Maps: Click Here
🔹 Dartmoor Crossing (130 km / 80 miles) – A wild, rugged adventure across Devon’s moors.
📍 Start: Okehampton
📌 Google Maps: Click Here
🚴♂️ Tips for Bikepacking in the South of England
✔️ Use a gravel or mountain bike – Most routes mix off-road tracks and bridleways.
✔️ Pack light but smart – Carry essentials like bike tools, spare tubes, and a waterproof jacket.
✔️ Plan water & food stops – Some rural areas have few refueling points.
✔️ Check for legal wild camping spots – While Scotland allows wild camping, in England you need permission or must use campsites.
✔️ Be prepared for weather changes – The South Downs and coastlines can be windy and wet!
🔥 Final Thoughts: Why Bikepack in the South of England?
The South of England is perfect for bikepacking, offering a mix of gravel trails, historic sites, stunning countryside, and coastal rides. Whether you’re tackling King Alfred’s Way, riding the Jurassic Coast, or exploring the New Forest, there’s an adventure waiting for every cyclist.
🚴♂️ Have you ridden any of these routes? Drop your experiences, tips, or questions in the comments! 🔥💬
