Just moved to Portsmouth after 20 glorious years in Cornwall. Knew the tracks there like the back of my hand - anyone got any good steers for riding/ shops up here?
These will help to begin with:
http://www3.hants.gov.uk/cycling/cycling-route-finder.htm
http://www.testvalley.gov.uk/Default.aspx?page=9586
www.hampshiretrailwatch.co.uk
I don't know Portsmouth but you are not far from Queen Elizabeth Country Park near Petersfield. The South Downs Way National Trail goes through here.
I'm sure some locals will be along soon.
Following from the 'whats Portsmouth like' thread from a few weeks ago, i'd say the best direction you should ride in would be west, back to Cornwall.
P.S, welcome to Hampshire, home of the 'ampshire 'ogs.
Oi rusty! Suppose you're going to say Dorset is better??!!
Hampshire has a varied range of riding from the South Downs to the Hampshire Downs, including Watership Down, in North Hampshire. The border with Berkshire and Wiltshire is fabulous and also known as the Northern Test Valley.
The Itchen Valley is very pretty with chalkland streams.
Do let me know if you need any more info!
No c_g, Northern Test Valley (well Bourne Valley to be specific) is home and always will be. I've just retired to the seaside 🙂
😆 @ rusty.
Head north up the A3 to Petersfield: some hills ('Little Switzerland') and decent trails around there , though they get pretty claggy in the winter.
Get in touch with Velocity in portsmouth, they do some great off road rides at QE, and occasional trips up to wales and such. They know all the unofficial tracks, and do a lot of building themselves. Also got some good mechanics if you want something fixed.
Also if you're close enough get in touch with fareham wheelers (I think the biggest cycling club in hampshire). Night riding off road, sunday club runs, gym spin sessions, mid week rides, everything you could want.
http://fareham-wheelers.org.uk/
http://www.velocitybikes.co.uk/
Hi David
I live in Fareham and there is loads of riding near Portsmouth, you just nned to be a bit more open minded! You are never going to get "Welsh" style tracks or even South West landscapes as the geography is different.
If you want someone to ride with and show you around then drop me a line ( email in profile) or come out with Fareham Wheelers on Tuesday or Thursday nights.
Velocity is indeed the finest bike shop in the area and have just moved to a gleaming new property in Cosham. Dave the shop manager leads most of the Tuesday/Thursday night "Wheeler" rides and is a wealth of local trail knowledge.
I hope that helps?
Matt
Another reason to move back to Cornwall:
http://www.jobsite.co.uk/job/mountain-bike-development-officer-937004452?src=search
"This post is to develop the economic value of downhill mountain bike facilities in the Tamar Valley by: establishing a new social enterprise to manage site facilities; developing income streams for the social enterprise; working with local businesses to promote and develop business opportunities, products and services; increasing use by underrepresented groups; procuring the development of a new cabin and associated facilities; procuring the design and development of one new downhill trail.
You can apply online for both roles by visiting cornwall.gov.uk/vacancies or an application form and further details can be obtained from: Telephone: 01872 322670 "
Petersfield/QE can be a bit lethal in the wet (chalk)
Plenty of riding about.
.
Lordswood southampton is my local spot and pretty good - although I wouldn't agree with it being 'amazing' as described in the months mbuk!
UKBP is definitely worth a look