The best cycling routes around Salisbury

Salisbury offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with nearly 70 different options available on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy, leisurely rides to more challenging excursions across diverse landscapes.

The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for touring cycling in Salisbury, offering pleasant weather for exploring the open plains, ancient woodlands, and river valleys. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. Winter cycling is possible, but some routes might be muddy or less accessible, and weather conditions can be more challenging.

The touring cycling routes around Salisbury are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 390 touring cyclists have already used komoot to explore the area, often praising the diverse terrain, historical landmarks, and scenic beauty of the Wiltshire countryside.

Yes, Salisbury is very welcoming for beginners and families. Over half of the routes, 36 to be precise, are classified as easy. These often include relatively flat paths around the city center, such as the The Golden Way, or gentle rides along the River Avon and its water meadows, providing accessible and enjoyable cycling experiences.

Absolutely. While many routes are easy or moderate, there are also options for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge. The region includes routes that venture into the rolling hills of the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or the West Wiltshire Downs, offering more significant climbs and rewarding views. There are 2 routes classified as difficult on komoot, and longer routes like sections of the Wiltshire Cycleway or King Alfred's Way also provide extended challenges.

Salisbury's touring cycling routes traverse a rich tapestry of landscapes. You'll encounter the iconic open expanses of Salisbury Plain, the ancient woodlands and heathlands of the New Forest, and the picturesque rolling hills of the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Additionally, many routes follow the River Avon, offering views of tranquil water meadows and charming villages like those in the Woodford Valley.

Yes, Salisbury is a significant hub for several long-distance touring cycling routes. The National Cycle Network Routes 24 and 45 both pass through the city, with Route 45 linking Chester to Salisbury over 270 miles. The 160-mile circular Wiltshire Cycleway includes Salisbury, and for off-road adventurers, King Alfred's Way, a 350km route, also features Salisbury as a key stop.

Yes, many touring cycling routes around Salisbury are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include The Golden Way, the Old Sarum Loop, and the Salisbury and Wilton cycle loop. The extensive Wiltshire Cycleway is also a large circular route that can be tackled in sections.

Salisbury's routes are rich in history. You can cycle to the world-famous Stonehenge (via the Salisbury to Stonehenge Loop), explore the ancient site of Old Sarum, or admire the magnificent Salisbury Cathedral, which is visible from many routes. Other notable sites include Avebury Stone Circle (accessible via Route 45 or King Alfred's Way) and various historic villages and estates.

Yes, Salisbury is surrounded by beautiful natural areas. You can cycle to places like the Avon Valley Nature Reserve, Coombe Bissett Down Nature Reserve (known for its chalk downland, wildflowers, and butterflies), and Devenish Nature Reserve. These areas offer opportunities to enjoy local flora and fauna and often provide panoramic views of the countryside. For more information on local nature spots, you can visit Visit Wiltshire's blog.

Salisbury is well-connected by public transport, particularly by train, making it feasible to combine cycling with public transport. Many train services allow bicycles, though it's always advisable to check the specific operator's policy and book bike spaces in advance, especially during peak times. This allows for flexible touring options, such as cycling one way and taking the train back.

Many routes around Salisbury offer stunning scenic viewpoints. The elevated sections of the Cranborne Chase AONB and the West Wiltshire Downs provide expansive vistas. Cycling near Old Sarum offers panoramic views of the Wiltshire countryside, and the water meadows near Salisbury Cathedral, particularly Harnham Water Meadows, are famous for their picturesque scenery, as depicted in Constable's paintings.