Cycling Weekend - Poole & Countryside
Overview
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.
Cycle hire is available, the option to book appears once you have clicked "BOOK NOW"
Guided by the very experienced Graham Hills. These weekends are not Spice Exclusive so you will meet other people. There are usually around 12 people on each of the weekends, a mixture of Spice and non Spice members.
Includes
- 2 nights accommodation.
- 2 breakfasts.
- 2 days fully guided cycling.
- Basic tool kit carried to undertake minor repairs.
- Accident insurance cover.
- Trained first aider.
Extras
- Cycle hire if required
- Evening meals
- All drinks
- Lunches and refreshments on Saturday and Sunday rides
Location & Itinerary
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.
Travel & Stay
Travelodge Poole
- Comfy king size Dreamer™ bed
- Ensuite bathroom with shower and complimentary hand, hair & body wash
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- USB charging points by the bed
- Bedside reading light
- Spacious desk with lamp and plug sockets, and desk chair
- Blackout curtains
- Comfortable armchair
- TV with Freeview
- Cosy 10.5 tog duvet, 4 plump pillow
- Set of fresh white towels
| Type | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Member Twin Share | £205.00 | Sold Out |
| Member Twin Share MALE | £205.00 | Sold Out |
| Member Sole Occ | £255.00 | Sold Out |
Booking Options
| Option | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle Hire | £30.00 | Sold Out |
Not enough spaces left for you? Join the waitlist
Host & Everything Else
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