⚠️ Challenging route — for experienced cyclists only. 35km with significant hills on Cranborne Chase. Allow a full day. Carry plenty of food and water. Start early.
35km
Loop
5–6 hrs
With Stops
Hilly
Terrain
Full Day
Required
Loop Schematic — Heading south into Cranborne Chase AONB
Turn-By-Turn Directions
1
From Caboose, head south through Salisbury on the A354. Take the signed cycle lane south through Harnham.
2km
2
Continue south on the A354 towards Coombe Bissett. The road has a reasonable verge. Turn right into Coombe Bissett village — a pleasant stop.
7km
3
From Coombe Bissett, the route climbs steadily onto the chalk downland of Cranborne Chase. Follow the B3081 south into Bowerchalke. The views open dramatically.
12km
4
Continue south through Chase woods — some steep descents through ancient yew woodland. Enter Tollard Royal village (highest point of the route).
18km
5
In Tollard Royal, stop at the King John Inn for lunch. From the village, head east on quiet lanes through Win Green and down to Sixpenny Handley.
22km
6
From Sixpenny Handley, follow lanes north through Cranborne village. A long, gradual climb returns you to the plateau before the descent north.
28km
7
From Cranborne, follow the B3078 north back towards Salisbury. Join the A354 north and return through Harnham to Caboose.
35km
Points of Interest
🌿 Cranborne Chase AONB
One of England's most ancient landscapes. Chalk downland managed as a deer chase since medieval times — breathtaking scenery.
🌲 Tollard Royal Yews
Ancient yew woodland — some trees are hundreds of years old. Dramatic and atmospheric on any day.
🍺 King John Inn, Tollard Royal
An exceptional country inn serving outstanding food. Book ahead if you plan to eat — very popular. This is your halfway point.
⛰ Win Green
The highest point in Wiltshire at 277m. A short detour from the route — but the 360° views across five counties are worth it.
Practical Information
⚠
Terrain: Mostly tarmac country lanes — but with significant hills. Total elevation gain approx. 700m. Gravel bikes handle this well.
💧
Food & water: Carry at least 2 litres, plus energy snacks. Fill up in Coombe Bissett and plan lunch at Tollard Royal. Limited shops on route.
🌦
Weather: Exposed downland — check the forecast. In strong headwinds the return leg north can be very hard. Start by 09:00 to allow time.
📞
Emergencies: Call Bike Hire Salisbury on +441722 504858. Bikes must be returned to Caboose by 20:00.