Goring - Portsmouth

This is one of a number of routes published by Goring Gap Cycling.

The first leg of a continental or even around the world tour, or a challenging one-way day ride in its own right.

Highlights
Beautfiful back roads through the Hampshire countryside.

The feeling of accomplishment on reaching the top of Portsdown Hill, to be rewarded by the view of Porstmouth Harbour and the Isle of Wight.

Hazards
The usual: main road crossings and loose gravel on corners at the bottom of descents.

The shared pedestrian and cycle route past the schools in Portchester can be very busy at school times, and taking the road could be safer as well as quicker.

Hospitality
The most obvious stopping points en route are Kingsclere, which has a good café, and Alresford, which has several, at roughly one- and two-thirds distance.

Hints
This route has been classified as hard because of the distance, the amount of climbing encountered and the likelihood of extra weight due to touring kit. It would be possible to make it a two-day ride, for example by stopping at Alresford (41 miles).

See Ferries from Portsmouth for details of overseas destinations and the companies serving them.

For more information about the Goring Gap and cycle facilities in the area, go to www.goringgapcycling.co.uk.