What better way to explore our local Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty by bike. Pedal power is a wonderful way to discover the diverse collection of different landscapes we have here, from rich heathland, chalk downlands, fertile valleys, picture box villages and a stunning ever changing coastline. And of course you will then have a perfect excuse to indulge in our fantastic country pubs and village tea rooms!
A nice warm up ride from the cottages would be to cycle to Rodden and take the New Barn Road (stunning coastal views) to Abbotsbury (about 3 miles) where you can visit the Swannery, have a pint at the Ilchester Arms Hotel, or afternoon tea at Abbey House Tea Rooms. If you continue through Abbotsbury, you can visit the Tropical Gardens and if you follow past the gardens you get to the beach and a very good little ice cream shack! Another local ride is to explore the Rodwell Trail (part of the National Cycle Network Route 26) which provides a pleasant 3.5km cycle ride, traffic free, from Westham Bridge in Weymouth Town Centre to Ferry Bridge – continue a little further and you can reward yourself at Billy Winters beach Café. (Map download – rodwell-trail)
For more inspiration West Dorset Pedal has a selection of 5 rides ranging from 11-17 miles. These routes take in the Marshwood Vale, 2 routes explore West Dorset’s finest hillforts, and the Frome Valley. Possibly one to start with is the route exploring the Bride Valley as it take you through Rodden and Langton. A copy of the map can be downloaded here –Cycle maps
Recently some guests mentioned Jack at Weymouth Bike Hire. He has an excellent collection of well maintained bikes for all abilities and ages and will drop them off free of charge to your cottage. He also has helmets, puncture repair kits etc.
Contact details Weymouth Bike Hire
Happy Cycling!