The best traffic-free bike rides around Savernake Forest

Savernake Forest offers a good selection of routes for gravel biking. This guide features 12 carefully curated no-traffic gravel bike trails, ranging from moderate to difficult, ensuring a varied experience for different skill levels.

The forest is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Be aware that some areas with clay soil can become muddy after heavy rain, so drier periods are generally preferable for the best gravel biking conditions.

While many routes are moderate, Savernake Forest does offer paths suitable for beginners. Look for routes described as having less elevation gain and smoother surfaces. For example, the forest's historic Grand Avenue provides a relatively flat and wide track, ideal for those new to gravel biking.

Yes, experienced riders seeking a challenge will find routes with more significant elevation changes and longer distances. For instance, the Vernham Dean Climb – Wiltshire Lanes loop from Marlborough is a difficult route covering over 77 km with substantial climbing, offering a demanding ride through the wider region.

Absolutely. Savernake Forest is an excellent choice for family-friendly gravel biking, especially on its well-maintained, wider tracks like the Grand Avenue. The 'no traffic' focus of these routes ensures a safer and more relaxed experience for families with children.

Savernake Forest is rich in natural and historical landmarks. You can cycle past the impressive Ailesbury Column, a 90-foot stone monument. The forest itself is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, known for its ancient trees and diverse ecosystems.

Yes, Savernake Forest is famous for its ancient trees. You can encounter iconic oaks like the Big Belly Oak and the Old Paunchy Oak, both estimated to be over 1,000 years old. Many routes will take you through areas where these magnificent trees stand.

There are several parking areas around Savernake Forest. For quieter access to the trails, consider parking at one of the smaller, less-frequented car parks within or on the periphery of the forest. Specific parking details are often provided within individual route descriptions on komoot.

While Savernake Forest itself is largely undeveloped, the nearby town of Marlborough offers a good selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants where you can refuel after your ride. Some routes, like the Marlborough Town Centre – Ramsbury Distillery Company loop, start and end in Marlborough, making it convenient to access amenities.

Public transport options to Savernake Forest are limited. The nearest major town with bus services is Marlborough. From Marlborough, you might need to cycle a short distance to reach the forest's main entrances. Planning your route in advance to incorporate public transport links is advisable.

The komoot community highly rates Savernake Forest, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the serene, traffic-free environment, the beauty of the ancient woodlands, and the variety of well-maintained gravel paths that make for an enjoyable and peaceful cycling experience.

Savernake Forest is a rich habitat for wildlife. You might spot various bird species, deer, and smaller mammals. The forest is also known for its exceptional biological diversity, including rare lichens, fungi, and mosses, particularly around the ancient trees. Keep an eye out for White Park cattle grazing in areas like Red Vein Bottom, which helps maintain the forest's unique ecosystem.