Look for traces of the Roman aqueduct which once brought water to Dorchester and for the flash of Kingfishers, Marsh Marigolds and Brown Trout.

Ancient Sydling is pure Thomas Hardy Country, one of Dorset’s prettiest villages. The chalk downs bring skylarks and windy open views.

Be impressed by the 180ft naked figure of the Cerne Abbas Giant, make your own mind up about the popular legend! Round off in Dorchester with shopping for Dorset food.

This route follows mainly minor roads but is not signposted – you will need an OS map to follow the route. Some of the route is off-road, following the Route 26 of the National Cycle Network.

You can hire an electric bike at Dorset Cycle Life in Dorchester.

Start your ride in Dorchester, which can be accesses by train or by car.

For further public transport information, including route planner, visit dorsetforyou.gov.uk

Before you set off, it is worth checking location and opening times of the Dorset Food & Drink businesses we have listed in the route guides and maps as some of the food producers listed in the Guide have changed over the past year. Please see the Dorset Food & Drink map to take your pick of the great tastes that Dorchester has to offer!