Explore the King Alfred’s Way cycle route

Published October 2020

Are you ready to take on your next cycling adventure? Grab your bike and helmet and challenge yourself to the 220-mile King Alfred’s Way cycle route.

Launched at the end of August 2020, this picturesque new bike route will take you on a journey through the heart of Hampshire, Surrey, Wiltshire and Berkshire. Make your way along gravel tracks and off-road trails as you explore some of the most beautiful countryside in Southern England.

The route connects four of England’s treasured National Trails – North Downs Way, South Downs Way, Ridgeway and Thames Path and creates a loop around historic Wessex, the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Alfred the Great. The route journeys along bridleways, byways, quiet country lanes and upgraded footpaths to now allow cycling.

The route officially begins at the Westgate Museum at the top of Winchester high-street – pop into the museum and begin your historic adventure by immersing yourself in Winchester’s Tudor and Stuart history. Visit the rooftop for a view over the city centre, see if you can spot a café for a pre-ride treat. The 350 km off-road route will take you on a multi-day adventure – perfect for people with off-road cycling experience – bringing you back to the historic city of Winchester ending at the iconic King Alfred Statue. Why not treat yourself to a celebratory meal at the end of your journey at one of the Winchester’s tempting restaurants or extend your stay and book a night in the district.

This is the perfect staycation for any adventurous traveller, take on this challenging ride through an ever changing landscape exploring 10,000 years of history.

Directions out of Winchester

From the official start at the Westgate Museum follow Upper High Street keeping The Westgate Pub on your left and continue over the railway bridge. At the mini roundabout turn left onto Elm Road then left onto Avenue Road. Take the right onto Cheriton Road and you will pass Westgate School on the left. At the mini roundabout turn left onto Stockbridge Road and continue down the hill before turning left onto Dean Lane. Follow this road to continue along the route and for your first views of the countryside.

The route has been developed over the past three years and launched by Cycling UK – a national cycling charity who inspires and helps people to cycle and keep cycling. The charity has been shouting about the joys and benefits of cycling in the countryside for 140years. Find out more about Cycling UK here.