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Cycling from Hermitage to Hampstead Norreys

A lovely traffic-free cycle route near Newbury

A 2-mile stretch of cycleway along the old railway route that once ran from Didcot to Newbury. The wide surfaced path is shared with walkers, runners and horse riders enjoying the quiet leafy route away from the roads. As you pedal along there are glimpses of the surrounding fields through gaps in the trees and hedges.

You arrive at Hamsptead Norreys village hall and the pretty church in the village. Along the road or through the churchyard is the community shop and cafe, perfect for a cuppa before a walk in the woods (stunning when the bluebells are out), and return cycle to Hermitage or continuing your ride on the country lanes. Also close by is The Living Rainforest – an intriguing visitor attraction where you can immerse yourself in the flora and fauna of rainforest habitats.

If you start the route in Hermitage, there is parking at the village hall, next to the start of the route.