Cycling In Bournemouth

Whether it’s ambling along taking in the picturesque scenery, a sunset cycle along the promenade or an off-road inland adventure, cycling in Bournemouth is a fantastic place for getting on two wheels.

Bournemouth has it all when it comes to options for cycling, there is something available to every age and ability. From rough and exciting downhill rides, areas where you can race against your friends or even quiet routes for the family with young ones just learning to ride.

From scenic flat routes to exhausting hill rides, Bournemouth and its surrounding areas, are a magnet for cyclists. There are several bike hire options if you haven’t got your own bikes with you. Bike hire in Bournemouth is great for groups and families and can easily be organised in advance.

Bournemouth beach has a wonderful promenade for cycling which stretches from Hengistbury Head in the East, to Sandbanks in the West. Although it’s not permitted to cycle on the promenade between 10am and 6pm in July & August due to the high volume of people, you can however ride between the piers on the road at all times throughout the year which still makes a great way to get around the wonderful coastline.

A few popular cycle routes include:

Challenging:
For cyclists, nothing beats the Purbeck Ridgeway. Work your way up to the top of this challenging hill and then breeze down through the paths for a really thrilling ride.

To the west:
Enjoy a relaxing cycle from Bournemouth to Sandbanks. Then jump on the Sandbanks-Shell Bay Chain Ferry which is a 15 minute crossing across to Studland.

New Forest:
It may be slightly further afield but taking your bikes on the train from Bournemouth to Brockenhurst is a great day out.