Links: The National Cycle Network ; Cycling in West Dorset

Visitors and local residents are being encouraged to explore West Dorset's beautiful countryside, varied towns and pretty villages on two wheels using a brand new leaflet `Cycling in West Dorset'.

The leaflet is produced by West Dorset District Council's tourism team in partnership with Dorset County Council and with support from Dorchester Cycles and promotes the National Cycle Network Route 2. The main route is approximately 30 miles and highlights the diversity of the area from the gentle Bride Valley to the more undulating section around the Marshwood Vale. There are also opportunities to take detours to West Dorset's spectacular World Heritage Coast at West Bay, Charmouth and Lyme Regis. The route is signed from just outside Dorchester to the Devon border near Lyme Regis.

The leaflets are available from West Dorset Tourist Information Centres, Tourist Information Points and Leisure Centres.

West Dorset is a wonderful area and there's no better way to enjoy it than on a bicycle! The route encapsulates rural West Dorset at its very best:historic towns and picturesque villages en route; spectacular countryside and breathtaking views. The key

Dorset County Council is currently working to install further routes within Dorchester and into Lyme Regis and to link Route 2 with other routes on the National Cycle Network including Route 26 from Dorchester to Sherborne.