These pages details the route for the OnYerBikes 2 on Saturday 16th July 2011.
The full route is around 20 miles or there is a shorter 11 mile route available.
The ride starts in the morning from the Charlton Inn, Charlton Marshall, Dorset and heads straight for the disused railway line (trailway) which is ideal for cycling. Into Blandford, across the meadows and the River Stour (twice), then onto the back roads following the Stour through Langton Long, Shapwick and on towards Sturminster Marshall. We then head off to Pamphill near Wimborne. The return stretch takes a route through the back of Kingston Lacy, back to Shapwick and then to Spetisbury, taking up the remainder of the trailway back to Charlton Marshall.
We've made the route as safe, rural and enjoyable as we can. There are no huge hills (but one small one in Pamphill). There is only one small stretch (around 150 metres) on a main road near the start of the route, the A350 at the end of the trailway before Blandford. We cross the A350 again at Spetisbury and in both cases we'll have lots of marshals around to make the traffic aware. There is a small stretch through the Kingston Lacy pathways that is slightly off-road but there is a simple way to avoid this stretch if you're worried that you or your bike won't suit.
There will be water and pub stops, a rescue vehicle and first aid cover.
Our marshals will guide you across the main road straight up The Close, through Hopegood Close past the village playground and on to the trailway.
This section takes you from the playground, past the old Chalton Holt and on nearly to Blandford.
The route then takes a cycle path through Blandford Meadows, along a back road and another cycle path under the River Stour.
The route follows the course of the River Stour through Langton Long and into the picturesque Dorset village of Shapwick, home of The Anchor pub.
After Shapwick, the route nears Sturminster Marshall, then heads away to Pamphill.
The route continues around the back of the Kingston Lacy estate. There is an optional off-road section or you can rejoin the outgoing route. Either option takes you back towards Shapwick.
From Shapwick, the route takes you into Spetisbury to rejoin the trailway.
The trailway brings you back to Charlton Marshall where you can join your companions in the pub for some well-earned refreshments and a hero's welcome!
You can view an interactive map of the OnYerBikes 2 route here.
If the full route is a little too far, why not try the shorter route ?
| The Route |
