Ashford Hill With Headley
Ashford Hill With Headley
The best gravel rides around Ashford Hill With Headley
4.6
(5)
52
riders
11
rides
Gravel biking around Ashford Hill With Headley features a landscape characterized by rolling hills, open common land, and sections along historical waterways. The region offers a mix of gravel tracks, bridleways, and quiet country lanes suitable for off-road cycling. Elevations are generally moderate, with some routes incorporating longer climbs. The terrain provides varied surfaces, from compacted gravel to more natural, unpaved paths.
Best gravel bike trails around Ashford Hill With Headley
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Crookham Common Gravel Trail – Greenham Common Bunkers loop from Thatcham, a 13.4 miles (21.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 34 minutes to complete, traversing open common land with historical points of interest.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Kennet and Avon Canal – Nunhide Lane Gravel Track loop from Thatcham, a moderate 23.4 miles (37.7 km) path. This route follows the Kennet and Avon Canal, offering flat sections alongside a dedicated gravel track.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Ridgeway Track to Streatley – Goring Lock and Weir loop from Beenham, a 30.8 miles (49.6 km) trail leading through the historic Ridgeway Track and along river features, often completed in about 3 hours 7 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Ashford Hill With Headley is defined by open common land, canal paths, and sections of ridgeway. The network offers options for moderate to difficult ability levels.
- The routes in Ashford Hill With Headley are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from a few reviews. More than 60 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Ashford Hill With Headley's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
5.0
(1)
15
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
49.6km
03:07
480m
480m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.5
(2)
6
riders
37.7km
02:14
170m
170m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Pure Bliss! had a super lunch of gels, carb mix and bars ver the sweeping vistas of traffic and noise! Jokes aside a highlight of my ride back to Bristol from London. I don't know why.
0
0
If you’re looking for a spot with a "dark history meets beautiful views" vibe, Combe Gibbet is exactly that. Perched high on Gallows Down (the name gives it away, doesn't it?) on the border of Berkshire and Hampshire, it’s one of the most atmospheric places in the North Wessex Downs. Here’s the story behind this lonely landmark: The "Double Trouble" Origin Story The gibbet isn't just a random decoration; it was built in 1676 for a very specific and grim reason. A local man named George Broomham and his mistress, Dorothy Newman, were convicted of murdering George's wife and son. As a warning to others, the authorities built a massive double-arm gibbet to hang them in chains right on the parish boundary. The one you see today is a replica (the 7th or 8th version!), but it stands in the exact same spot, looking quite eerie against the skyline. Why It’s Actually a Lovely Visit Despite the macabre history, people flock here for reasons that have nothing to do with 17th-century crime: The Views: Because it sits on the crest of the ridge (near Walbury Hill, the highest point in South East England), you can see for miles. On a clear day, you can look across the Kennet Valley all the way to the Cotswolds. The Paragliders: It’s a legendary spot for paragliding and hang-gliding. It’s incredibly relaxing to sit in the grass and watch them launch off the steep scarp and circle over the valley like giant birds. Ancient History: The gibbet is actually built on top of a Neolithic Long Barrow (a 5,000-year-old burial mound). So, it’s been a significant "high place" for humans for a very, very long time.
0
0
Not a gravel riding track. Only suitable for mountain bikes due to the road conditions, big rocks, and large potholes. If you must ride a gravel bike here, do not cruise and always go slowly.
0
0
All cyclists are able to pass the toll bridge for free
0
0
Although most riders finish King Alfred’s Way in Winchester, I wrapped up my journey in Reading—making this stunning Ridgeway section into Streatley one of my final and most memorable stretches. The open chalk track offers incredible views over the Thames Valley, followed by a flowing descent into Streatley & Goring—an ideal place to pause, refuel, and take in the last big skies before rolling to the end. 🚴♂️ Fast but rideable chalk descent (even in damp conditions), watch for walkers and ruts. 📍 Café and rest stop options in Streatley/Goring.
1
0
Not only are these old Cold War Cruise missile bunkers but Star Wars used them in the Force Awakens film as the rebel base
0
0
Any climb is generally worth it for the views at the top, this is in the top few for a far reaching vista.
0
0
Yellow Route around Greenham and Crookham Commons is straightforward, mostly flat, and accessible for various ages and fitness levels. Be aware of livestock along the way, best to keep pups on a lead.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Ashford Hill With Headley?
There are over 15 gravel bike routes in the Ashford Hill With Headley area, offering a diverse range of experiences from moderate to more challenging rides.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly gravel bike routes?
While many routes are moderate to difficult, the region's landscape of open common land and canal paths can be suitable for less experienced riders. For example, the Crookham Common Gravel Trail – Greenham Common Bunkers loop from Thatcham is generally considered an easier option, traversing open common land.
What are some challenging gravel cycling routes in the area?
For those seeking a challenge, routes like the Ridgeway Track to Streatley – Goring Lock and Weir loop from Beenham offer significant elevation changes and longer distances, leading through historic tracks and along river features. Another challenging option is the Crookham Common Gravel Trail – Greenham Common Bunkers loop from Wash Common, which is rated as difficult.
What is the typical length of gravel bike routes near Ashford Hill With Headley?
Gravel bike routes in this area vary in length. You can find shorter loops around 13 miles (21 km), such as the Crookham Common Gravel Trail, up to longer rides of nearly 31 miles (50 km), like the Ridgeway Track to Streatley.
Are there circular gravel bike trails available?
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in the Ashford Hill With Headley area are designed as circular loops. This allows you to start and finish at the same point, making logistics easier. Examples include the Kennet and Avon Canal – Nunhide Lane Gravel Track loop from Thatcham and the View from Combe Gibbet – Combe Gibbet on Gallows Down loop from Newbury Racecourse.
When is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Ashford Hill With Headley?
The region's rolling hills and varied terrain are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also great, but be prepared for potentially busier trails. Winter can be ridden, but some unpaved paths might become muddy or slippery, especially after heavy rain.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the gravel bike trails?
You can expect a mix of surfaces, including compacted gravel tracks, bridleways, and quiet country lanes. The landscape features rolling hills, open common land, and sections alongside historical waterways like the Kennet and Avon Canal. Elevations are generally moderate, though some routes incorporate longer climbs.
Are there scenic viewpoints or natural attractions along the gravel trails?
Yes, the area offers several scenic spots and natural attractions. You might encounter viewpoints such as View from Plantation Hill or View from White Hill. The routes also pass by natural features like Thatcham Reedbeds Nature Reserve and historical sites such as Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the routes in Ashford Hill With Headley?
The gravel routes around Ashford Hill With Headley are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the peaceful sections along canal paths, and the historical points of interest found on routes traversing open common land.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to see while gravel biking?
Absolutely. The region is rich in history. You can explore sites like Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort and Grimsbury Castle Hillfort. Some routes also pass by significant structures such as The Vyne, a historic country house.
Can I find places to stop for refreshments like cafes or pubs along the routes?
While specific cafes and pubs are not detailed for every route, the trails often pass through or near villages and towns like Thatcham and Beenham, where you can typically find options for refreshments. Planning your route in advance and checking local amenities is recommended.
Is public transport available to access the gravel bike trails?
Many routes start near towns like Thatcham, which has a railway station, potentially offering public transport access. However, specific public transport links directly to trailheads can vary, so it's advisable to check local bus and train schedules for your chosen starting point.
Most popular routes around Ashford Hill With Headley
Most popular attractions around Ashford Hill With Headley
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Gravel rides in other regions.
