The best cycling routes around Savernake Forest

Savernake Forest offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 150 different options available for exploration. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy rides to more challenging journeys.

The terrain in Savernake Forest is diverse, featuring ancient woodlands, extensive trail networks, and gentle hills. You'll encounter a mix of surfaced paths, gravel tracks, and natural trails. While many paths are well-maintained, some areas can become muddy after rain, adding to the adventure.

Yes, Savernake Forest has routes suitable for all skill levels, including beginners and families. There are over 25 easy touring cycling routes, providing gentle loops through the forest. An example is the Humble Oak – Savernake Forest – Savernake Forest Gravel Track loop from Marlborough, which is an 8.1-mile (13.1 km) trail leading through ancient woodlands.

Savernake Forest is rich in historical and natural features. You can cycle past ancient veteran trees like the Big Belly Oak and the Old Paunchy Oak, both over a millennium old. The Ailesbury Column, a 90-foot stone column, is another notable landmark. The forest also boasts the longest beech avenue in England, a picturesque feature designed by Capability Brown.

The touring cycling routes in Savernake Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 70 reviews. Cyclists often praise the tranquil ancient woodlands, the variety of trails, and the opportunity to explore historical features and veteran trees. The diverse landscapes and well-maintained paths are frequently highlighted as key attractions.

For those seeking a challenge, Savernake Forest offers over 40 difficult touring cycling routes. One such route is The Ridgeway Trail – Avebury Stone Circle loop from Savernake, a 30.6-mile (49.3 km) path that includes sections of the historic Ridgeway Trail and offers expansive views.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Savernake Forest are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the popular Marlborough Town Centre – Avebury Stone Circle loop from Marlborough is a 19.5-mile (31.4 km) circular route connecting the historic town with the ancient Avebury Stone Circle.

Savernake Forest is largely open to the public and includes several car parks, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. These parking areas provide good access to the extensive network of trails within the forest.

Savernake Forest offers a beautiful cycling experience year-round. Spring brings vibrant new growth and wildflowers, while autumn showcases stunning foliage. Summer provides pleasant conditions for longer rides, and even winter offers a unique, tranquil atmosphere. Be aware that some trails can become muddy after heavy rain, particularly in wetter seasons.

Beyond the forest itself, the area around Savernake offers additional points of interest. You can explore the historic Marlborough Town Centre, which is often connected by cycling routes. The ancient Avebury Stone Circle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also accessible via some of the longer touring routes, such as the Hackpen White Horse – Marlborough Town Centre loop from Marlborough.

As a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) with diverse habitats, Savernake Forest is home to a variety of wildlife. While cycling, you might spot deer, various bird species, and a rich array of insects. The ancient trees also support rare species of lichens, fungi, and mosses, particularly on the older oaks.

Yes, Savernake Forest is renowned for its ancient woodlands and unique natural heritage. It's recognized as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its rich biodiversity and historical significance. For more general information about the forest, you can visit Visit Wiltshire.