LOCAL KNOWLEDGE WINCHESTER

Rolling lanes, short climbs and plenty of history

The magnificent ancient capital of England is a great base for day rides with beautiful, compact downs landscape all around. Traffic is rarely far away, but the manicured villages and well-tended countryside make every mile a scenic delight. No epic climbs, but several stiff little ascents and picture-postcard pubs and cafes aplenty.

ROUTE ONE EASTERN LOOP 66 MILES SOUTH DOWNS SPECIAL

A full day of hills and scenery. Ride along lovely Itchen valley, then to West Meon (cafe) and a climb up Old Winchester Hill to enjoy fine views. Then on to pretty East Meon and a stiff climb to Butser Hill’s panorama. Downhill to Hambledon, then up Meon Valley and a climb up Beacon Hill before enjoying the country lanes back. GET THE ROUTE: komoot.com/ tour/238661992

ROUTE TWO NORTHERN LOOP 52 MILES FAST RURAL ROMP

Easy lanes ride through lush landscapes and villages. Test Valley to Whitchurch, and back roads to Hurstbourne Tarrant (cafes) and short climb to highest point just after Upton. Enjoyable run back along quiet roads with downhill trend.

GET THE ROUTE: komoot.com/ tour/238662519

ROUTE THREE WESTERN LOOP 34 MILES HALF-DAY GRAVEL JAUNT

Mostly tarmac with several chalky tracks – gravel/hybrid are ideal. Out to Sparsholt and hilltop views, before descent to Test Valley. Lanes to Barton and good tracks before quiet lanes to Kings Worthy. Walk over river footbridge; back to Winchester. GET THE ROUTE: komoot.com/ tour/238662917