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Summary:

Poole and the surrounding Dorset countryside offer a rich mix of historic market towns, peaceful rivers and traffic-free cycle paths. This weekend explores the UK’s largest natural harbour, classic Dorset landscapes and a wealth of waterside cafes and pubs. All while staying in comfort near Poole centre and enjoying the beautiful quayside.

Distances: Approx. 34 miles Saturday & 30 miles Sunday.

Terrain: Mostly flat with a few gentle rolling sections inland.

Path/Road: National Cycle Network routes, shared-use paths and quiet country lanes. All bikes suitable.

Physical difficulty: Moderate. Cycling at a relaxed pace with plenty of stops.

Accommodation: Staying at Travelodge Poole

Cost: £205pp, based on 2 people sharing a twin room (£50 single supplement).

Itinerary:

Friday:

Check in to the hotel and head to a nearby pub for meet, greet and socialise.

Saturday: – Wimborne Minster and Blandford Forum.

After breakfast we head north picking up National Cycle Route 25, following the Castleman Trailway — a smooth, mostly traffic-free trail that hugs the edge of Holes Bay and rural Dorset countryside. You’ll pass pastures, river view and open farmland.

Our first destination is the beautiful market town of Wimborne Minster. There will be time to explore the medieval streets, op into independent shops, wander the square and admire the Minster itself before stopping for refreshments at Little Pickle at the Mill, perfectly positioned beside flowing water and old mill buildings.

From Wimborne we continue north through peaceful rural lanes towards Blandford Forum, a Georgian town rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1731. On arrival there’s time to explore the weekly market, wide streets and riverside before lunch at the Hall & Woodhouse Brewery Tap, home of Badger Ales and a fitting spot for a hearty midday break.

The return journey follows a similarly scenic route South. The final miles are gentle and unhurried, bringing us back to base with time to relax before the evening.

Evening:
Dinner out at one of the many restaurants along Poole Quay, with views across the harbour.

Sunday — Poole Harbour and Wareham

We begin with an easy ride through Poole Park, skirting the boating lake and shoreline before joining the paths that trace the edge of Poole Harbour. This vast natural harbour provides ever-changing views of water, islands and birdlife as we continue around through Hamworthy.

Stop for elevenses at Harbour’s Edge Café, a relaxed waterside stop ideal for coffee and cake while watching harbour activity drift by.

We continue past tidal creeks and marshland views towards Wareham, the “Gateway to the Jurassic Coast”. Wareham’s historic quay, ancient Saxon walls and riverside setting make it a highlight of the weekend. Lunch is taken at a riverside pub, with outdoor seating overlooking the River Frome when weather allows.

The final leg of the journey heads south via Upton Country Park, a tranquil estate of woodland, parkland and formal gardens. This peaceful stretch provides a fitting finale before we return to Poole.

Sadly, it’s time for goodbyes after a weekend of classic Dorset riding.

Bike hire:

We can arrange – £30 for the weekend.

Included:

2 nights accommodation.

2 breakfasts.

2 days fully guided cycling.

Basic tool kit carried to undertake minor repairs.

Accident insurance cover.

Trained first aider.

Refund policy:

Contact us to cancel 2 weeks before event 100% refund, 1 week 50%, 2 days 25%, < 2 days 0%.