The best traffic-free bike rides around Bournemouth
4.3
(184)
3,301
riders
45
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Bournemouth offer a diverse landscape for exploration, characterized by extensive coastal promenades, sandy beaches, and serene inland spaces. The region features a blend of flat coastal paths, chalk ridgelines, and ancient woodlands, including parts of the New Forest National Park. These routes provide varied terrain, from easy seaside rides to more challenging excursions through heathland and forests. The area's natural features make it suitable for touring cyclists seeking routes away from vehicular traffic.
Best…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
4.9
(23)
139
riders
52.3km
03:03
220m
220m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
153
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(6)
158
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
113
riders
22.5km
01:20
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(6)
86
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
To explain the patronage of this place of worship, which is dedicated not to one person, but to the "Holy Trinity" – that is, God the Father, God the Son, and Holy Spirit; ONE God in THREE Persons – from the publisher's information for the book "GOD, YOU THREE" by Father Reinhard Körner: "For Father Reinhard Körner, the Trinity is... a living, tangible certainty. He takes the reader on a journey of discovery through his personal faith story: toward the one God in three Persons – toward God who is community. He finds this... Christian view of God in spiritual literature from the past and present, in art, and in theology. Living with the triune God can change one's own faith, one's way of praying, and one's coexistence with other people in the church, and ultimately in society as well. For a God who is in himself community, relationship, and love means hope for all people. A mystery worth rediscovering." (Source: https://www.borromedien.de/produkt-1994/gott_ihr_drei/11241557)
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Iford Bridge is a historic bridge that crosses the River Stour, connecting Christchurch and Bournemouth. It is a Grade II listed building by English Heritage. Easternmost section: Dates back to the late 18th or early 19th century and is constructed of red brick with stone coping. Middle section: Built in the mid-17th century, it is made of ashlar stone and features four round-headed arches. This section is particularly old, with some sources indicating it dates back to 1184. Westernmost section: Also from the late 18th century, it complements the middle section's architectural style.
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Quiet fast smooth road especially if your cycling down hill, Just watch out for the tourist in the summer time due to the campsites nearby.
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Not somewhere you're likely to want to walk or cycle along. The local occupants of the area are partial to their substances here.
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Lovely tree lined trail - it’s a shared trail so look out for pedestrians
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Wick Fields form an important part of the Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve and constitute a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Hengistbury Head, Wick Fields and adjacent land were declared a Local Nature Reserve on 18 May 1990 under Section 21 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949. The meadows here have not been improved for agriculture and are therefore regarded as ‘ancient grassland’, rich in flowering plants and rushes. An increase in birds has been reported here, including the rare Dartford warbler and the Cetti's warbler. Other birds include the song thrush, skylark, kestrel, barn owl and little owl. The otter is seen here occasionally, as is the now 'uncommon' water vole. A herd of Galloway cattle graze the land; these cattle are ideally suited to the harsh conditions of the coast and estuary and help manage the land by chewing and trampling down any overgrowth.
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The Bournemouth Big Wheel can be found at Bournemouth’s Pier Approach area and runs from 10am – 10pm daily. As you would expect from a structure standing more than 100 feet tall (30m) the wheel offers stunning, panoramic views of the Pier, beach and the Lower Gardens. This attractions offers good value for money and, from my experience, you typically get 2 full rotations of the wheel which is plenty of opportunity to take some stunning photos. They don’t have a website so it’s not possible to book in advance. Buy your ticket on arrival at the ticket booth, you rarely have to queue for long. Ticket Price Adult £8 Child £5 Family (2A + 2C) £22
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Short gravel path that runs alongside the rivers edge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Bournemouth?
There are over 50 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Bournemouth, offering a wide range of experiences for all skill levels. Most of these, around 38, are classified as easy, with 10 moderate and 2 more challenging options.
Are there any easy, family-friendly no-traffic cycling routes in Bournemouth?
Yes, Bournemouth offers many easy, family-friendly routes. A great option is the View of Bournemouth Pier – Bournemouth Pier Beach loop from Southbourne, which is just over 12 km and relatively flat, perfect for a relaxed ride along the coast. The coastal promenades are generally flat and scenic, though be aware of peak summer restrictions (10 am to 6 pm in July and August).
What kind of landscapes can I expect on no-traffic cycling routes around Bournemouth?
Bournemouth's no-traffic routes offer a diverse mix of landscapes. You can cycle along stunning coastal promenades with golden sandy beaches, explore serene inland spaces like the New Forest National Park with its ancient woodlands and open heathland, or discover nature reserves such as Hengistbury Head. Routes like the Hawthorne Road – New Forest Airfields Memorial loop from Bournemouth take you through the enchanting New Forest.
Are there any circular no-traffic cycling routes in the area?
Yes, many of the no-traffic routes around Bournemouth are circular, making planning easier. For example, the Christchurch Priory – Southbourne Beach loop from Bournemouth offers a pleasant circular ride exploring coastal areas and historic sites. Another option is the Coastal Woods Path – View of Mudeford Beach Huts loop from Christchurch.
What attractions can I see along the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
You'll find several interesting attractions. Along coastal routes, you can pass by Boscombe Pier or enjoy the views from Hengistbury Head. The town's Bournemouth Lower Gardens and Upper Gardens also offer picturesque cycling paths. For a unique experience, consider the Mudeford Ferry to Mudeford Quay.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Bournemouth?
The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. While summer is popular, coastal promenades have cycling restrictions between 10 am and 6 pm in July and August. Winter can be enjoyable on quieter routes, but be prepared for potentially wet and windy weather, especially along the coast.
Are there any cafes or refreshment stops along the no-traffic cycling routes?
Yes, many routes pass by or are close to places where you can grab a refreshment. For instance, the Kingfisher Barn Visitor Centre and Wildflower Meadow is a good spot for a break. Coastal routes often have cafes and kiosks along the promenades, particularly in areas like Boscombe and Southbourne.
Can I take my dog on the no-traffic cycling routes?
Many of the no-traffic routes, especially those through parks and natural areas like the New Forest or Moors Valley Country Park, are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, often on a lead. Always check local signage for specific rules regarding dogs, particularly in nature reserves or protected areas.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about no-traffic cycling in Bournemouth?
The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic touring cycling in Bournemouth, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse scenery, from the stunning coastal paths to the tranquil woodlands of the New Forest, and the well-maintained, car-free routes that make for a relaxing and enjoyable ride.
Are there any long-distance no-traffic routes suitable for touring?
While many routes are shorter, you can combine sections or explore longer trails like the Castleman Trailway, which offers up to 26.5 km of easy to intermediate cycling. The New Forest National Park also provides an extensive network of dedicated cycle trails, allowing for longer, traffic-free touring experiences through ancient woodlands and open heathland.
Where can I find parking for these quiet cycling routes?
Parking is available at various points near the start of many routes. For example, you can often find parking near the coastal promenades, at country parks like Moors Valley or Avon Heath, and in town centers such as Christchurch. For routes starting in Bournemouth, consider parking near the Bournemouth Lower Gardens or other public car parks, then cycling to your chosen route.
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