Bikepacking King Alfred's Way : 353km gravel loop from Winchester

Bikepack King Alfred's Way and explore 353km of ancient trackways, rolling chalk downs, and quiet rural lanes through the historic landscapes of Wessex. This circular loop from Winchester links some of England's most iconic off-road trails, including the Ridgeway, North Downs Way, and South Downs Way, making it one of the most historically rich and accessible bikepacking routes in the country.

Suitable for both beginner and experienced MTB and gravel riders, the full route is broken into 7 stages of 40–60km, completable in 3 to 7 days depending on your pace. Flexible alternative schedules for wild camping, campsites, and hostel and B&B accommodation make it easy to tailor your adventure to your style and available time. You'll ride through the Test Valley, Salisbury Plain, the Vale of Pewsey, the Thames Valley, the Forest of Eversley, and the North Downs, passing unforgettable highlights including Old Sarum, the Neolithic landscape of Salisbury Plain, Stonehenge, Avebury's famous stone circle, the White Horse of Uffington, Wayland's Smithy, and the rolling heathland of the South Downs.

Navigate with confidence using 1:150,000 maps and downloadable GPX files for every stage, clear rider-focused route descriptions, route summary tables, and a full accommodation appendix. The guide also includes bike shop listings, recommended kit lists, and practical getting there information. Winchester is well connected by rail from London and the north and west of the UK, making it easy to access this rewarding bikepacking adventure.