Best cycling routes
Boasting some of the best mountain biking terrains in the UK, Surrey is the place to be for two-wheeled action this month. From the impressive vista of the Devil's Punchbowl to routes that take you through rural splendour - not to mention past the exquisite country pub or two, there's something to match every time frame and level of expertise.
Aside from the physical benefits of cycling, studies have shown that more than 90% of people who cycle off-road cite mental health gains as a huge positive of the sport. You can see for yourself thanks to the Cycle Surrey Hills project. Launched in June and funded by the London Marathon Charitable Trust, it is a series of five interlinking routes, covering a total of 80km that can be undertaken in isolation or as one long loop.
Here are three to get you started, plus tips for maximising your off-road pleasure:
1. Frensham Loop
- Frensham Great Pond
- Distance: 17km
- Best for: History
Watch out for medieval bridges, World War II pillboxes and the 'Atlantic Wall', used by Canadian troops during practice for D-Day landings.
Plan your route here
2. Devil's Punchbowl
- Devil's Punch Bowl, GU26 6AB
- Distance: 16km
- Best for: Views
Enjoy the spectacular site of sweeping purple heather and golden grasses across the iconic open heathland of the Devil's Punch Bowl. Expect to see views that will blow you away, which makes for the perfect Sunday afternoon cycle.
Plan your route here
3. Puttenham
- Littleworth Rd, Farnham GU10 1JH
- Distance: 10km
- Best for: Wildlife
Keep your eyes peeled for the many birds that visit the reserve, including great, crested grebe, green woodpecker and grey heron. So, if you love wildlife and love a nice bike ride, then why not combine the two?
Plan your route here
Top Tips To Cycle With Success:
- Plan for a comfy ride by remembering these differences between mountain and road biking:
- Have the front end of your mountain bike higher to increase stability on downhill sections
- Ease the strain of uphill segments, by lowering your saddle a few millimetres and keeping your gaze lifted
- Aim for a tyre pressure of 30-40psi for rocky terrain
- When tackling muddy strips, keep to a low gear
- Relax into the ride - tension through the body only slows you down and can make the bike wiggle and weave
- Prefer to walk? Check out the best walks in Surrey here
