The best cycling routes in Dorset
Best Cycling Routes in Dorset
With two-thirds of Dorset designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, cycling here promises some of the most magical scenery on the South Coast. If you’re planning to explore Dorset on two wheels, here are our top picks for some of the best cycling routes – all accessible from Silverlake Estate, where bikes are included with your Habitat Escapes stay.
The doorstep one
You don’t have to go far to enjoy incredible cycling right at your doorstep. Silverlake boasts an extensive network of quiet lanes and trails, offering miles of scenic routes. Within the Estate, bridleways highlight the area’s natural beauty, including the Island with its exhilarating zipwire over the lake and the historic Knighton Heath woodland, perfect for off-road cycling enthusiasts.
For a leisurely ride from Silverlake, try a circuit through the enchanting woodland, passing West Knighton and returning along the bridleway beside Beaumont Lake. This particular route is ideal for guests using the Estate’s bikes, which are fully equipped for off-road surfaces. Note that winter months can bring muddy conditions, so dress accordingly and enjoy the adventure!
The casual ones
Families will love the Portland Trail, a mostly flat 17-mile circular route starting at Overcombe Corner. It follows paths around Lodmoor Country Park and nature reserve, continues into Weymouth town centre (perfect for a cake stop!), and along the Rodwell Trail to the Isle of Portland. Pause at Chesil Beach for a picnic and make sure to visit Portland Castle along the way.
Another family-friendly ride is the Ashley Heath Railway Station to Moors Valley Country Park. A steady 10-mile route combines easy paved cycleways with gentle forest tracks. Little fans of the Gruffalo storybook will enjoy picnicking next to life-size sculptures of the Gruffalo and friends at Moors Valley.
With year-round bikes included in your Silverlake stay, the whole family can explore Dorset without worrying about packing bikes or extra kit.
The challenging ones
For cyclists seeking more of a workout, Dorset’s hilly terrain offers plenty of options. The Purbeck Trail is a 57-mile circular route from Corfe Castle, combining coastal views, rural landscapes, charming villages, and historic landmarks. The Smedmore Hill Climb is tough, so reward yourself with a refreshment stop at the Bankes Arms pub before continuing the undulating route.
Another option is the Canford Magna Bridge to Poole Quay loop from Hampreston. It’s mostly flat, but fitness is needed for steps and moveable bridges along the way. The route is perfect for getting acquainted with Poole and its picturesque Quay.
For mountain biking enthusiasts, Puddletown Forest is about a 20-minute ride from Silverlake via quiet country lanes. Its extensive network of bridleways provides an exhilarating experience. While there are also unofficial trails, always follow local signage and guidance.
The expert ones
For a full-day challenge, the Dorset Greatest Hits Tour stretches 73 miles, showcasing the region’s most spectacular sights, from Thomas Hardy’s birthplace to the prehistoric geology of Lulworth Cove and Lawrence of Arabia’s home.
For those seeking the ultimate test, the Corfe Castle loop from Wool is nearly 100 miles and includes the notorious “Kingston Leg Burner.” Both rides reward your efforts with the comfort of Silverlake’s luxury accommodation and spa, the perfect way to relax after a long day in the saddle.
