Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN SOUTHAMPTON
Planning a trip to Southampton with your bike? This guide covers the most scenic and bike-friendly touring routes in and around the city. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned cyclist, get ready to explore hidden gems, waterfront paths, and nature reserves across 30–50 km loops that blend adventure with culture.
Best urban and coastal loops
If you're rolling into Southampton with your bike in tow, you’re in for a treat. The city’s combo of vibrant coastal views, urban charm, and green spaces makes it a paradise for cyclists. Whether you're after a chilled scenic ride or want to rack up some kilometers, these urban and coastal routes are where it's at.
City centre to Weston Shore loop
Start in the heart of the city, heading through parks like Palmerston and Queen's, where you’ll dodge traffic and pedal under leafy canopies. Make your way toward Ocean Village Marina, snap a photo or two, then follow the National Cycle Network Route 2 down to Weston Shore. It's flat, breezy, and perfect for taking in views across the Solent.
Distance: ~20 km round trip
Surface: Mixed (paved, compact gravel)
Highlights: Ocean Village, Weston Shore promenade
Skill level: Easy
Itchen River and Riverside Park ride
Ride along the River Itchen, a peaceful, mostly traffic-free route that takes you past Cobden Bridge, through Riverside Park, and into leafy suburban stretches. There are plenty of benches for picnic breaks and even a few riverside cafés if you’re in the mood to refuel.
Distance: ~18 km loop
Surface: Paved paths
Highlights: Riverside Park, St Denys views
Skill level: Beginner-friendly
These loops are ideal if you want a quick spin with plenty of scenery and low effort. Plus, they’re super accessible from most hotels or Airbnbs in the city centre.
Parks, forests, and nature rides
Southampton isn’t all concrete and ships—it’s got a lush green side perfect for those craving forest trails and longer adventures. If you love mixing pedal power with a bit of nature immersion, these routes should be on your radar.
The New Forest loop
Hop on a ferry from Town Quay to Hythe with your bike and unlock access to the New Forest. This ancient woodland is a cyclist’s dream with wild ponies, shaded gravel paths, and wide-open heaths. The Lyndhurst–Beaulieu loop is especially magical, threading you through quiet forest lanes and historic villages.
Distance: 40–50 km
Surface: Mostly gravel and forest paths
Highlights: Beaulieu village, New Forest wildlife
Skill level: Intermediate
Test Valley green corridor
Start near Redbridge and follow National Cycle Route 24 northwest toward Romsey. It’s peaceful, with old railway paths, meadows, and rolling countryside. The route is well-signposted and you’ll encounter far fewer cars than you’d expect this close to a city.
Distance: ~35 km return
Surface: Mostly paved, some gravel
Highlights: Romsey Abbey, scenic rural landscapes
Skill level: Moderate
These routes are a dream for nature lovers who prefer fewer crowds and more greenery. Don’t forget your water bottle and maybe a few snacks—there are plenty of picnic-perfect stops along the way.
Day-long adventures and full loops
If you’ve got the legs and want to put in a solid day on the saddle, these full-day rides offer everything from coastal breeze to rolling countryside. Bring your repair kit, charge your phone, and get ready to ride like a local on these epic circuits.
Southampton–Winchester–Southampton loop
This loop takes you north through quiet suburbs into classic Hampshire countryside. You’ll pedal past fields, small villages, and tree-lined backroads before reaching Winchester, an ancient cathedral city packed with history and cafés. After a lunch stop, loop back on a slightly different route to keep the ride fresh.
Distance: ~60 km
Surface: Roads, some light gravel
Highlights: Winchester Cathedral, rural lanes
Skill level: Advanced
Southampton–Lepe Beach coastal ride
If you want seaside vibes, this ride is perfect. Head southwest out of Southampton, through Eling and Marchwood, before skimming the coast down to Lepe Beach. It’s a quiet spot, ideal for a long break with views across to the Isle of Wight. Return through the southern edge of the New Forest for a beautiful mix of terrain.
Distance: ~55 km
Surface: Coastal roads, forest paths
Highlights: Lepe Beach, New Forest coastal paths
Skill level: Intermediate to advanced
Both of these rides are ideal for travelers wanting to squeeze the most out of a full day. Make sure to bring layers—the weather can shift quickly, especially near the water.
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