4.5
(429)
2,810
riders
143
rides
Mountain biking around Alderholt offers a diverse landscape for riders. The region is characterized by a mix of open downland, such as Martin Down and Whitsbury Down, and extensive woodlands like Boulsbury Wood. Riders can expect varied terrain, from engaging forest singletrack to more open paths across rolling hills and ridges. The area provides a range of natural features suitable for different mountain biking experiences.
Last updated: May 22, 2026
3.7
(3)
8
riders
39.4km
03:03
380m
380m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.8
(15)
45
riders
30.1km
02:23
180m
180m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.1
(7)
13
riders
35.2km
02:44
360m
360m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
4.0
(2)
23
riders
27.7km
02:06
170m
170m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
14
riders
24.2km
01:51
270m
270m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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there's a few ways to climb here, all rewarding
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Bokerley Dyke is a substantial linear earthwork, approximately 5.75 kilometers (3.6 miles) long, located on Cranborne Chase. It runs along part of the border between Dorset and Hampshire, specifically between Woodyates and Martin. It is part of a larger Scheduled Monument that also includes Grim's Ditch and other earthworks. The dyke has a multi-period history. It is believed to have originated in the Bronze Age or Early Iron Age as an important political and cultural boundary. In the 1st century, it was cut through by a Roman road, Ackling Dyke, which ran between Old Sarum and Badbury Rings. In the 4th century, the dyke was remodeled and brought back into use. During this period, the Roman road was blocked. A coin of Valens found during excavations dates this activity to shortly after 364 AD, with some sources suggesting it was built between 367-368 AD. This remodeling may have been a defensive measure against attacks on Britain by Picts, Scots, and Saxons. The Roman road was eventually reopened, but the dyke may have continued to be used as a boundary after the Roman administration ended. Today, it still forms part of the border between the counties of Dorset and Hampshire.
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Don't actually lean your bike up against the black post box. It is a monument not a bike post. There are plenty of trees nearby!
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The black post box is a Victorian relic and hidden in plain sight in the edge of the woods on the right as you enter the car park from the road. It even has a little sign in front of it now I notice. This is at the 15km or half way mark on the ride and conveniently next to the Royal Oak pub. Which is well worth a visit. Real forest pub with a lovely large garden and welcomes cyclists with a dedicated cycle park.
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There are over 140 mountain bike trails available around Alderholt, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. This includes nearly 70 easy routes, over 70 moderate trails, and a few challenging options for experienced riders.
Yes, Alderholt offers a good selection of easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. For example, the Eyeworth Pond – View of Hampton Ridge loop from Fordingbridge is an easy 24.2 km route that takes around 1 hour 50 minutes to complete, offering gentle terrain and scenic views.
For advanced mountain bikers seeking a challenge, Alderholt has a few more difficult trails. The Viewpoint on Whitsbury Down – Bokerley Dyke loop from Fordingbridge is a difficult 35.5 km trail that leads through open downland and along historical earthworks, typically completed in about 2 hours 46 minutes.
Many of the mountain bike trails around Alderholt are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Boulsbury Wood & Martin Down loop from Fordingbridge, a 39.4 km moderate trail, and the Through the Forest Singletrack – Superworm Trail loop from Alderholt, a 30.1 km moderate path.
The terrain around Alderholt is quite varied, characterized by a mix of open downland, such as Martin Down and Whitsbury Down, and extensive woodlands like Boulsbury Wood. Riders can expect everything from engaging forest singletrack to more open paths across rolling hills and ridges, providing diverse experiences for different mountain biking styles.
The mountain bike trails in Alderholt are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from nearly 400 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscape, the mix of woodland paths and open downland views, and the engaging singletrack sections found on many routes.
Yes, the trails offer access to several scenic spots and natural attractions. You can find viewpoints on Whitsbury Down, or visit Eyeworth Pond, a tranquil spot often included in routes. The historic Bokerley Dyke is also a notable landmark along some trails.
Yes, several routes pass by or near lakes and water features. Eyeworth Pond is a well-known spot, and the wider area includes Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve, which features lakes like Mockbeggar Lake, offering pleasant views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Alderholt's diverse landscape makes it suitable for mountain biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Winter riding is possible, but trails may be muddier, especially in woodland sections, so checking local conditions is advisable.
Absolutely. The region is rich in history. The ancient Bokerley Dyke, a large linear earthwork, is a prominent historical feature that some trails follow. Additionally, the Castleman Trailway, a former railway line, offers a gravel route with historical significance.
While specific cafes directly on every trail are not guaranteed, the area around Alderholt and nearby Fordingbridge offers options. For example, The Royal Oak is a pub that can be found near some routes, providing a place for refreshments.


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