Are you looking for the best places to take your mountain bike in the UK? From North Wales to the Lake District, we’ve rounded up some of the top spots for mountain biking. Whether you’re an experienced rider or just getting started, these trails have something for everyone. So, get ready to explore some of the best mountain bike trails in the UK!
1. Coed Y Brenin, North Wales
Considered by many to be the birthplace of mountain bike centres, Coed Y Brenin is a great option for those looking to really test their mountain bike out. Here you can find bike hire facilities, changing rooms, a café and a variety of trails to choose from, ranging from those that suit beginners right through to those more suited to expert riders.
2. Cannock Chase, Staffordshire
Cannock Chase is a great trail centre with a visitor centre, bike hire and shop all in one package. Cannock Chase is undergoing upgrades this year, meaning the routes should be in top condition and there is news of new routes being built in the pipeline. There is a range of trails and routes to choose from, including the famous ‘Dog Trail’, which offers a decent challenge to more experienced riders.
3. Dalby Forest, Scarborough
Dalby Forest is a top-notch mountain biking destination. It hosted the UCI MTB World Cup in 2011 and offers trails that are truly top quality. That’s not to say you need to be an elite rider to ride these – many of their routes fall more into the ‘Cross Country’ category meaning they can be comfortably ridden by all abilities. There are many technical routes for those who really want to test themselves. It also offers activities for non-cyclist, including a Go-Ape course and an adventure playground, so why not take the whole family?
The Fathom is a fun hardtail that puts you in control – perfect for those XC trails
4. Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
The Forest of Dean is a woodland area that really offers something for everyone. The Forest of Dean is very popular with all types of riders – for those into downhill riding, they offer an uplift service to access the super-fast downhill trails. If cross-country is more your thing, then take advantage of the wide forest tracks and marked routes, or if you like Singletrack trails there’s a wealth of them still waiting to be discovered.
Their 17.5km Family Trail is perfect for children and they also offer great beginners trails. They even host regular racing events for those of you who are a little more competitive.
5. Grizedale, Lake District
Grizedale is a great spot for those looking to cover some distance. The Lake District is a well-known mountain biking hotspot and offers some of the best riding landscapes in the UK. Grizedale has trails ranging from 3km to 23km, all of which aren’t particularly technical, meaning it’s well suited to all. Whilst it’s not too technical, be prepared for the odd incline as this part of the country isn’t particularly flat – it’s worth the effort though, as the views at the top of the hills are incredible and there are even forest sculptures scattered throughout to give you something to look out for whilst on your ride.
6. Swinley Forest, Bracknell
For city dwellers in London, Swinley Forest is ideally located to escape the bustling city life and hit some real woodland trails. It’s an up and coming centre with several trails just introduced in the last year and with more in the pipeline. Furthermore, regular group rides take place, meaning it’s a great place for those looking to make some riding buddies. Their red trail provides a challenge for those looking for something technical whilst their 1.2km green trail is perfect for younger riders who are just getting into the sport.
7. Sherwood Pines, Mansfield
Located in the Midlands (making it easily accessible for most) is Sherwood Pines Forest Park. The park boasts over 45km of unmarked trails as well as several marked routes for those who prefer to know where they’re going. A few unique features included a skills area and a purpose-built bike park with a set of dirt jumps to practice getting some air as well as a specific Downhill zone.
How about riding the Reign on some real trails?
8. Gisburn Forest, Lancashire
Gisburn Forest is a great spot for mountain biking. It regularly scores highly in polls for the UK’s best trail centre and for good reason. It is home to some of the oldest purpose-built tracks in the UK and offers a challenging red trail, as well as a shorter blue trail for casual riders.
In December 2017, they introduced a brand new red trail, giving riders even more to go at. It is home to two separate downhill tracks, which include some huge jumps and is strictly reserved for the more advanced rider. Although the facilities aren’t as good as other centres, you’ll be lucky to find a spot in the car park on weekends.
9. Whinlatter, Lake District
Whinlatter is home to the longest purpose-built mountain bike trails in the Lake District. The forest itself rises to 790 meters above sea level and is England’s only mountain forest; as a result, offers stunning views of the whole of the Lake District. Although it only offers two main trails, it still boasts over 25km of tracks to be ridden and there a shorter version of both trails available for those not wanting to ride the full loop. The centre has a good range of facilities including a café and bike hire available.
10. Your Local Area
Don’t forget to explore your local area! People often overlook their local area and spend hours in the car travelling to ride their bike, but you might be surprised at just how much fun riding around your own locality can be. Whether it’s a local canal path, a nearby forest
Are you looking for some amazing mountain biking destinations in the UK? Look no further; Giant Bicycles UK has you covered! When it comes to mountain biking, the UK has some of the best trails in the world. From the rugged hills of Scotland to the rolling moorlands of England, Giant Bicycles UK has compiled a list of the top 10 mountain biking destinations in the UK.
Beginners and experienced mountain bikers alike can explore the beautiful countryside of Wales at Afan Valley Bike Park. With a variety of trails from green runs perfect for beginners, to more technical black routes for the experienced riders, there’s something for everyone.
Head to Derbyshire for some of the best downhill and freeride trails in the UK. The famous trails at the CyclePark at Carrbrook Hill have been featured in mountain biking magazines and featured in racing events, making them some of the most sought-after trails in the UK.
Another great destination for mountain biking is Moelfre in North Wales. The trails that travel up the mountain allow you to take in some stunning views of the surrounding area. There’s also the nearby Lon Las and the Rhosgadfan Trails, allowing riders to explore the wild mountain landscapes with ease.
The Forestry Commission Wales Cycling Centre, located in Coed-y-Brenin, also delivers some of the best mountain biking in the UK. With trails designed to suit a range of abilities, riders of all levels can have a blast in this stunning spot.
Mabie Forest in Scotland is a must-visit destination for avid mountain bikers. This area boasts several cross-country trails, as well as the world-famous technical Red trails.
For those looking for a wilder experience, head to Kirroughtree near the Southern Upland Way. With fast flowing single-track and steep descents to contend with, this is an exhilarating ride that most experienced riders will love.
The Flow Trails at the Bike Park in Glentress are a mountain biker’s paradise. Featuring several trails for all levels of riders, Glentress has something for everyone.
The Lake District is also home to some great mountain biking trails. Here you can explore the many bridleways, connecting villages with picture postcard views.
If you’re looking for more extreme riding, then head to the Burnhead Trail, located in Sparkwell Woods in Plymouth. Featuring jumps, drops, and a variety of obstacles, this trail is not for the faint of heart.
Finally, the Bear Bones Trail, located in Thetford Forest, is an epic three and a half mile single track journey, offering riders some thrilling sections and jumps.
So, what are you waiting for? Gear up with Giant Bicycles UK and explore some of the best mountain biking destinations in the UK.