Alice Holt Forest, Noor Hill Hanger and Selborne Common loop — South Downs National Park

Discover the most northern corner of the South Downs National Park with this loop that winds through forests, cuts across military ranges and traverses steep beech-clad hills known as the Hampshire Hangers.

From Bentley station, the route starts with a serene cycle through Alice Holt Forest, a royal forest in Hampshire with a dense section of ancient oak. Here, it traces the Shipwright's Way, a long-distance walking and cycling route that culminates at Portsmouth's historic dockyard.

The first climb is Noar Hill Hanger, an area of beech woodland on a steep slope. This is followed by another climb up to Selborne Common, National Trust managed woodland that’s a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest. Both areas are part of the hangers ridge, steep hills lined with ancient beech trees creating a woodland canopy for walkers and cyclists.

You'll cycle through Selborne, a charming village renowned for its association with the famous naturalist and ornithologist Gilbert White. On the final leg, an array of woodland tracks and scenic country lanes guide you back to your starting point at Bentley station.

This Tour strikes an equal balance between on and off-road cycling. The terrain gracefully undulates, offering a challenge while maintaining a relatively flatter elevation profile than other Tours in this Collection. The absence of technical sections makes it an ideal route for gravel bikes, but keep in mind that certain areas can become quite muddy following heavy rain.

The route offers a generous sprinkling of eateries along its way. From the outset, you'll encounter an inviting cafe in Alice Holt Forest. As you progress, you'll find the Cricketers Inn pub in Kingsley followed by The Hanger pub in Oakhanger. At the midway point, The Greatham Inn awaits.

Selborne, famous for being the abode of Gilbert White, has two cafes and a welcoming pub. If you'd prefer a pitstop closer to the journey's end, The Three Horseshoes in East Worldham is a good option.

Bentley station is served by regular trains from London Waterloo, Woking and Clapham Junction. It has a large chargeable car park. For free parking, try London Road in Bentley village, a short cycle from the station.