Whatever your cycling ability, riding at Thursley Common it is a great way to get around.
There are plenty of bridleways and permissive paths to explore. We have selected some routes for differing levels of ability. In general, given the sandy soil, there may be stretches which are difficult. Normally, there are ways past or its just a short walk and you can cycle again. Do take care in deep sand, it is difficult to cross. In some areas water run-off creates dangerous terrain, please be aware and ride accordingly. If in doubt dismount and walk down.
The routes avoid the centre of the common, called the mire, in winter the bridleway can be 600mm under water for large stretches and even during summer the ground is very boggy.
Please respect other users of the common. It’s great to traverse the single track or through the trees at pace. BUT please be prepared to stop, not to pass walkers at speed, announce your presence before passing and take great care with horses. Every horse is different and could rear up if you approach with bright lights or at speed. We can all enjoy the common together if we are considerate to other users.
Parking is available in Thursley Village, the Moat Car Park and In Elstead, details are elsewhere on this website.
The Website also has maps which are displayed at main entry points to the common.
Do’s and Donts
Do
Please keep to the well trodden paths.
Please tread lightly and leave no trace
Please moderate your speed and give way to other users of the common.
Respect other users of the common. Every horse or dog or person is different. Announce your presence and be ready to stop if required.
Please do not
Please do not go off piste there are many rare plants and insects.
Please do not create new paths or worse still a jump or berm
Pass other visitors at speed, startle horses or ignore dogs. Please respect the other visitors right to be there too.
Under no circumstances cycle on the boardwalk. It is dangerous for you and other users and it causes the boards to become loose. A tyre puts all of the weight on a small area, which works the boards loose.
A Google satellite view of the well trodden paths
A map view of the Bridleways
Easy Cycle Routes
A simple loop for all abilities
The ground conditions are generally good with areas of soft sand and trees/roots. Stop for refreshments at the Three Horseshoes. Starts and ends in Thursley.
A harder route with sandy sections
Explore the varied terrain and conditions on the common. Starts and ends in Thursley.
Medium hard Cycle Routes
A harder route for expereinced MTB/Gravel riders
The ground conditions are generally good with areas of soft sand and trees/roots. Stop for refreshments at the Three Horseshoes. Starts and ends in Thursley.
A harder route with a big climb and difficult ground sections
Climb from Thursley up to Gibbets hill and circle the punchbowl to return. Stop at the NT cafe en-route.
Hard Cycle Route
A harder route for expereinced MTB/Gravel riders
The ground conditions are generally good with areas of soft sand and trees/roots. Stop for refreshments at the Three Horseshoes. Starts and ends in Thursley.
A harder route with a big climb and difficult ground sections
Cross under the A3 and climb up to Thursley from Brook.
Disclaimer
These routes are on public rights of way, Byways or Bridleways unless on a permissive path on the common. You follow the route at your own risk.
FOTC
Please ensure that you are prepared for your ride. Take a mobile phone. Do not take risks or ride where not permitted..
FOTC
Friends of Thursley Common NNR 