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Where to Ride: Purbeck
Words and Images: Eddie Allen | Routes: Rob Jefferies
The Isle of Purbeck isn't really and island at all. However, bounded by the English Channel to the south and the vast Poole Harbour to the east and north, the area certainly has an island flavour, a difference that separates it from ‘mainland' northern Dorset. The pretty seaside town of Swanage is its focal point and is indeed the starting point for all three of our rides. Swanage is a hugely popular holiday destination, with a fine sandy beach, restaurants and plenty of accommodation, all within easy reach of the areas many attractions; the World Heritage Site of the Jurassic Coast, the ruin and romance of Corfe Castle and the famous primates of Monkey World being just three.
As far as cycling goes, the area is a real sweet spot, between the A351 and the coast, there's a great network of quiet, narrow roads and lanes that are ideal for anything from a gentle few miles to a long day in the saddle. And while there's no handy man-made trail centre, mountain biking options abound, with an extensive network of trails and tracks within Wareham Forest or, like our chosen ride, a healthy selection of bridleways on the ridges and headlands near the coast, affording stunning views of Dorset's unique and majestic coastline.
Perhaps you're planning a holiday in the area? If so, we've hand picked three rides that will allow you to explore the beauty of the area by bike.
LEISURE
Swanage to Corfe Castle - a short, yet rewarding backroad ride on quiet lanes linking sunny Swanage and tea-room nexus Corfe (with a heritage railway return option!) Some steep sections so low gears are recommended. Read More...
MTB
Ballard Down - A stunning 8.5 mile bridleway/backroad ride on the imposing Ballard Down, allowing you to get up close and personal with 200ft cliffs, Old Harry, and his wife. Two big climbs onto Ballard Down. Read More...
ROAD
Corfe, Frome Valley and Clouds Hill - A 37 mile road ride taking in Corfe Castle, quiet lanes following the wooded Frome valley, the superb tea rooms at Moreton and the gorse, heathland and woodland of Clouds Hill, before returning to Swanage for more cream teas! Read More...
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