The best gravel rides around Padworth Gully

There are nearly 10 gravel bike routes available around Padworth Gully on komoot, offering a variety of experiences across common land, canal paths, and historic tracks.

The routes around Padworth Gully cater to various skill levels. While there are no easy-rated tours, you'll find 5 moderate and 4 difficult routes. The terrain ranges from flat canal paths to more challenging sections with minor ascents, particularly on historic tracks like the Ridgeway.

Yes, for those new to gravel biking or looking for a more relaxed ride, routes like the Crookham Common Gravel Trail – Greenham Common Bunkers loop from Thatcham offer an easy experience. This 13.4-mile (21.6 km) path explores open landscapes and passes by historic bunkers.

For a longer adventure, consider the Ridgeway Track to Streatley – Goring Lock and Weir loop from Beenham. This challenging route spans 30.8 miles (49.6 km) and features sections of the historic Ridgeway Track with significant elevation changes.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Kennet and Avon Canal – Nunhide Lane Gravel Track loop from Thatcham, which is a moderate 23.4-mile (37.7 km) ride along canal towpaths and rural tracks.

The routes often feature a mix of natural beauty and historical sites. You can expect to see sections of the historic Ridgeway Track, views of the Goring Lock and Weir, and the open landscapes of Crookham Common. Some routes also pass by the historic Greenham Common Bunkers and alongside the Kennet and Avon Canal.

Gravel biking around Padworth Gully is enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for potentially muddy sections, especially on unpaved common land and canal paths, as the terrain can become soft after rain.

Routes along the Kennet and Avon Canal are generally flatter and can be more suitable for families, offering a gentler ride away from traffic. The Theale Lake – Kennet and Avon Canal loop from Thatcham is a moderate 25-mile (40.2 km) option that includes canal sections and views of Theale Lake.

The gravel biking routes around Padworth Gully are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.75 stars from over 3 reviews. Many of the 40+ visitors praise the varied terrain, from scenic canal paths to open commons and historic tracks, offering a diverse riding experience.

Yes, the Greenham Common Bunkers – Crookham Common Gravel Trail loop from Thatcham is an easy 20.3-mile (32.6 km) route that specifically explores the Greenham Common area, allowing you to cycle past the historic bunkers and enjoy the expansive common land.

The terrain primarily consists of common land, canal paths, and historic tracks. You'll encounter a mix of surfaces suitable for gravel bikes, from relatively smooth towpaths to more rugged sections on open commons and ancient routes. The landscape is generally flat to gently rolling, with some routes incorporating minor ascents.