Moors Valley Country Park — Play Trail
Moors Valley Country Park — Play Trail
Highlight • MTB Park
Moors Valley Country Park — Play Trail
Cycling
4.9
(103)
Gravel riding
5.0
(3)
Mountain biking
5.0
(1)
Hiking
5.0
(1)
Road cycling
5.0
(1)
Tips
October 3, 2023
Cycling
The tracks for cycling range from wide open forest tracks to singletrack through the forest. There is also a bike park and pump track where you can test your bike handling skills.
May 7, 2020
Cycling
May 10, 2020
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Moors Valley Country Park — Play Trail
5.0
(3)
9
riders
50.9km
03:19
430m
430m
Embark on a moderate touring cycling adventure through the Cranborne Chase National Landscape, covering 31.7 miles (50.9 km) with an elevation gain of 1395 feet (425 metres). This route offers about 3 hours and 18 minutes of riding through diverse scenery. You will pedal across undulating chalk landscapes, ancient woodlands, and peaceful river valleys, enjoying views of rolling chalk grassland. Keep an eye out for the Moors Valley Country Park — Play Trail as you pass by. On clear days, you might even catch glimpses of the Isle of Wight from higher elevations.
Planning your ride on this loop is straightforward, as there are no specific permits or seasonal closures to worry about. Parking is generally available in towns like Ringwood, which makes for a convenient starting point for this loop. Be aware that some sections, especially off-road bridleways, can become rutted and very muddy. This is particularly true after rain, so consider conditions before you set out.
This route stands out for its journey through the Cranborne Chase National Landscape, an area celebrated for its rich heritage. You will encounter historic villages and ancient sites that add significant charm to your cycling experience. The diverse environment, from chalk landscapes to ancient woodlands, showcases the unique natural beauty of the region. It offers a rewarding experience for those who appreciate both natural scenery and historical context.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
19.3km
01:30
70m
70m
Embark on an easy touring bicycle adventure along the Castleman Trailway and Moors Valley Country Park loop, a route that spans 12.0 miles (19.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 216 feet (66 metres). You can comfortably complete this loop in about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The trail offers a delightful mix of scenery, guiding you through East Dorset's internationally important heathland, across rivers, and into peaceful forestry plantations. Much of the route follows the old Southampton to Dorchester railway line, providing a largely flat and gentle ride on gravel and paved surfaces, with gentle twists and turns earning it the nickname "Castleman Corkscrew." Within Moors Valley Country Park, you will find a rich forest environment featuring meadows, woodlands, and lakes, including the unique Tree Top Trail offering a bird's-eye view.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as this loop is well-suited for touring cyclists of all skill levels. While the Castleman Trailway is mostly off-road, be aware of a 2.5-mile stretch between Canford Bottom roundabout and The Willett Arms in Wimborne where you will need to use the road. Moors Valley Country Park offers a mix of gravel and tarmac tracks, with easy waymarked paths for general cycling. The park also features more challenging singletrack mountain biking routes and the Watchmoor Bike Park, so you can choose paths that match your desired level of challenge. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned for accessing the trailway or the general cycling paths within the park.
This trail is notable for its historical significance, following the path of the
4.7
(13)
519
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 30 m
Weather
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Monday 11 May
17°C
1°C
18 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
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