The best road cycling routes around Buckhurst Hill
4.2
(677)
11,540
riders
312
rides
Road cycling around Buckhurst Hill offers diverse landscapes, primarily defined by its immediate access to Epping Forest, an ancient woodland featuring dense woods, open grasslands, and varied terrain. The region also includes picturesque areas like Roding Valley Meadows with its species-rich water meadows, and serene water features such as Connaught Water. The terrain is characterized by a mix of paved paths and gentle hills, providing a range of experiences for road cyclists.
Best road cycling routes around Buckhurst Hill
- The most popular road cycling route is Scenic Country Road in Essex – Flowing Country Lanes loop from Chingford, a 77.9 miles (125.4 km) trail that takes 5 hours 33 minutes to complete, offering a challenging ride through varied Essex countryside.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Rolling Hills of Essex – Flowing Country Lanes loop from Loughton, a moderate 40.9 miles (65.9 km) path that winds through the undulating landscape of Essex.
- Local road cyclists also love the Hollow Pond – Woodford Green loop from Loughton, a 12.8 miles (20.6 km) trail leading through Epping Forest, often completed in about 54 minutes.
- Road cycling around Buckhurst Hill is defined by ancient woodlands, open grasslands, and gentle hills, with routes catering to various fitness levels. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more demanding rides.
- The routes in Buckhurst Hill are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 600 reviews. More than 11,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Buckhurst Hill's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 23, 2026
5.0
(4)
397
riders
128km
05:40
900m
900m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(3)
42
riders
20.6km
00:55
130m
130m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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4.0
(1)
39
riders
65.9km
03:07
540m
540m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3.0
(1)
36
riders
50.6km
02:13
360m
360m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.5
(6)
40
riders
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Don't forget to pay for your parking (Ringo)
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A stone's throw from central London, Epping forest offers an immersive countryside experience, with its Oak, Beech and Hornbeam forests, grasslands, heaths and flowing waterways.
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Leyton Flats and Hollow Pond are great places to explore by bike. On warm summer days, it's an ideal place to bring a picnic and watch the local wildlife. There's even the option of hiring a rowing boat and getting out onto the lake.
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Hollow Pond is on the southern tip of Epping Forest in London. It was built in the 18th century as a reservoir for water supply. Today it's a lovely recreational area ideal for walking, picnics and activities. It's easily accessible by transport and a real escape into nature right in the heart of the city.
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If you want to get the feel that you have escaped the city grime, this is the road for you. Gently rolling, quiet and bordered with lush countryside. A great place to drop the pace to look at the views, or pick it up because of its quiet. Take your pick.
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Epping Green is a quaint village between Epping and Harlow and lies mainly within Epping Forest land. It’s quite small and cozy but it has little to no amenities. It has a 14th century church but with the lack of a coffee stop you won’t be stopping here for long.
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The Queens Head is such a nice pub with a garden to stop for a pint and lunch.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Buckhurst Hill?
There are over 300 road cycling routes around Buckhurst Hill, catering to various fitness levels. This includes more than 160 easy routes, 140 moderate routes, and 11 challenging options for experienced cyclists.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes near Buckhurst Hill?
The terrain around Buckhurst Hill is quite varied, primarily influenced by its proximity to Epping Forest. You'll find a mix of paved paths, ancient woodlands, open grasslands, and gentle to moderate hills. The name 'Buckhurst Hill' itself hints at the undulating landscape, offering both scenic flat sections and some rewarding climbs.
Are there any challenging climbs for road cyclists in the area?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Mott Street Climb in Epping Forest is a notable attraction. It features a well-surfaced stretch with a significant 12% gradient, making it a popular spot for cyclists looking to test their climbing abilities.
What are some scenic natural features or landmarks I can see along the routes?
Road cycling routes around Buckhurst Hill often pass through beautiful natural features. You can expect to see the ancient woodlands of Epping Forest, the picturesque Roding Valley Meadows, and serene water bodies like Connaught Water and Strawberry Hill Pond. Some routes also take you past Hollow Pond.
Are there any long-distance road cycling routes starting from Buckhurst Hill?
Yes, for cyclists looking for longer rides, there are several options. A challenging route is the Scenic Country Road in Essex – Flowing Country Lanes loop from Chingford, which covers approximately 125 km. Another substantial option is the Rolling Hills of Essex – Flowing Country Lanes loop from Loughton, a moderate 66 km ride.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Buckhurst Hill?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 600 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the immediate access to Epping Forest's varied terrain, and the well-maintained paths that cater to different skill levels.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly road cycling routes?
Absolutely. For beginners or those preferring a more relaxed ride, the Hollow Pond – Woodford Green loop from Loughton is an excellent choice. This easy 20.6 km trail leads through Epping Forest and can typically be completed in under an hour. Another easy option is the Mott Street Summit – Wake Road, Epping Forest loop from Chingford, which is about 25 km.
Can I find circular road cycling routes around Buckhurst Hill?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes in the Buckhurst Hill area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Scenic Country Road in Essex – Flowing Country Lanes loop from Chingford and the Rolling Hills of Essex – Flowing Country Lanes loop from Loughton, providing convenient circular options for exploration.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Buckhurst Hill?
The region offers enjoyable cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery as the forest changes colors. Summer is also popular, though some routes might be busier. Winter cycling is possible, but it's advisable to check route conditions, especially after rain or frost, as some paths within Epping Forest can become slick.
Are there any routes that pass by significant water features?
Yes, several routes offer views of significant water features. The area includes serene spots like Connaught Water and Strawberry Hill Pond within Epping Forest. The Roding Valley Meadows also feature the River Roding, providing picturesque waterside scenery on some routes.
Are there any moderate difficulty routes for road cyclists?
Certainly. For those looking for a moderate challenge, the Rolling Hills of Essex – Flowing Country Lanes loop from Loughton is a popular choice, covering about 66 km through undulating landscapes. Another good moderate option is the High Beach Church – Epping Upland Dash loop from Loughton, which is around 50 km.
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