Your ultimate guide to Dorset cycle routes

There are many ways to explore Britain’s hidden gems and lush countryside away, including by car and by foot. One of the best ways to discover Dorset’s natural beauty and picturesque villages is to wind along by bicycle.

Dorset cycle routes stretch from Lyme Regis in the far west right along the coastline to the lively hub of Bournemouth. Ranging in difficulty and length, the county’s long list of routes cater to beginners and younger cyclists all the way up to intermediate and advanced peddlers. Here at Campsites UK, we have compiled the ultimate guide to Dorset’s much loved cycle routes to aid you during your next family camping trip in the south.

Popular routes

The Purbeck Ride is one of the most popular routes for experienced, more ambitious riders. The 47-mile route weaves its way along the coastline past rural scenery and historical points of interest, including Corfe Castle. You’ll find a range of bike hire outlets, cycle shops and cycling groups on this route. Alternatively, the long distance National Route 2 cuts across the whole of Dorset, winding through the south from Kent to St. Austell in Cornwall to the far west. This route is great to hop onto to discover more of the Dorset countryside away from the coast.

Other trails can be found along Thomas Hardy country and Wareham Forest in the south. There are also an abundance of routes further north around the North Dorset Cycleway and the family-friendly North Dorset Trailway. Ideal for all ages, this trailway gently ambles along the old Somerset and Dorset Railway line with plenty of pretty villages along the way in Blackmore Vale.

Attractions to cycle to

Due to the sheer volume of cycle routes in Dorset, most of the county’s attractions are accessible by bike. If you fancy something a bit different during a trip, there are number of attractions which don’t involve the coast. Around the larger towns of Dorchester and Weymouth are a number of museums as well as Kingston Maurward Gardens and Animal Park for the kids.

Cycle along National Route 26 from Portland Castle in the south and stop off at the Sherborne Castle and Gardens in the north for a day wandering around the castles and the grounds. Or head down along National Route 25 to sunny Bournemouth on the seafront where you can find Adventure Wonderland and Splashdown Water Park near to Poole. You will also find a variety of campsites between Abbotsbury and Poole that make the perfect base for exploring by bike.

Health and Safety

No matter where you are, health and safety precautions should always be taken, particularly during a cycling holiday. Be prepared for all kinds of weather and visibility by packing a fluorescent jacket to allow other road users and pedestrians to see you clearly. Always wear a helmet and protective pads on your arms and legs to reduce damage in the event of an accident. Your children should cycle behind you whilst on roads and wider paths. You can then make eye contact with vehicles and steer them in a safe line along the road. 

Etiquette

Whatever your surroundings, you should adhere to a few cycling etiquette rules. Weaving in and out of traffic should be avoided at all times and always use your bell to inform pedestrians of your presence. Use road signs provided to read the road ahead and always give way to pedestrians.

We have only informed you of the most popular cycle routes in Dorset. The list of cycle routes in the county would be too long to fit on the page! Head down to Dorset with a bike, a tent and a rucksack to discover your favourite routes for exploring the coastline and countryside.