The final day of our King Alfred’s Way adventure. Leaving the heathland of Thursley Common and the Surrey Hills behind, we head south through quiet lanes and tracks, passing the dramatic landscape of the Devil’s Punch Bowl before skirting towns and villages on our way towards the South Downs.
Reaching the South Downs and the famous South Downs Way, we stop for lunch at Queen Elizabeth Country Park, where Peter receives a rousing rendition of Happy Birthday from fellow bike packers as he celebrates his 76th birthday.
Refuelled and in good spirits, we tackle the climb up Butser Hill, the highest point on the South Downs. A helpful tailwind and clear views make for superb riding as we roll westwards past Old Winchester Hill, one of the finest hill forts in southern England.
The route drops down to cross the crystal-clear waters of the River Meon before climbing once more onto the chalk ridges. Eventually the trail leads us towards Winchester via St Catherine’s Hill and alongside the beautiful River Itchen.
A final spin into the city brings us to the iconic King Alfred the Great Statue and the end of a memorable 215-mile bikepacking journey around one of England’s great off-road cycling routes.
Thanks for following along.