サウサンプトンのおすすめMTBライド

Large historic public park in the heart of Southampton, covering about 365 acres of open grassland, woodland, and ornamental lakes. Originally medieval grazing land, it became a formal public space in the 19th century and remains a vital green area for the city. The Common is home to a wide range of wildlife, including birds and bats, and contains notable features such as the Cemetery Lake, the Ornamental Lake, the Old Cemetery, and the Cenotaph war memorial. It’s a popular venue for community events, festivals, concerts, and sports, and offers extensive paths for walking, running, and cycling. Today, Southampton Common is valued as both a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a much-loved urban park, providing a mix of recreation, history, and natural beauty in the centre of the city.

The church building dates from before the 15th century, with some historians suggesting a church existed as early as 885.  Grade 2 listed building known for its history and various memorials to famous people.  A notable feature is its "One Hand Clock," which dates from the early 17th century.

I recommend using the cycle path as the road is busy and fast flowing , it takes you from Lyndhurst to Ashurst.

Bolton's Bench is a well-known landmark and natural knoll in the New Forest, located just outside Lyndhurst, named after an 18th-century Duke of Bolton. It features ancient yew trees at its summit and offers picturesque views over the village, heathlands, and surrounding landscapes. The site is popular for walks, dog walking, and picnics, and is home to free-roaming New Forest ponies and cattle. While the bench itself commemorates the Duke, a local legend also attributes the hill's formation to a battle with a dragon, with the yew trees growing from where the knight and his dogs fell.

The carpark here can get really busy especially on weekends or holidays. If you're planning on driving here to start your ride make sure it's early to beat the parking madness

The Itchen Bridge in Southampton, southern England, is an impressive and practical bridge that connects the city well. It offers beautiful views of the River Itchen and the surrounding countryside. The bridge's modern design and good maintenance make it a pleasant place for strolling or simply enjoying the view. The atmosphere here is particularly beautiful at sunset. Overall, the Itchen Bridge is an important and attractive link in Southampton, both functionally and aesthetically pleasing.

I tracked the ride, my mate led the way as he used to live in the area, with a lunch stop at the Happy Cheese.

A nice route, two or three gates, cycle friendly, steady climbs, excellent ride