Top 10 places to go Mountain Biking in the UK
The UK is home to some of the best places to go mountain biking in the world. Here's our rundown of ten of the best mountain bike trail centres in the UK.
Let us know if you agree, and if there are any glaring omissions, feel free to get really angry in the comments section. We love that.
Oh, and PS… We’ve got awesome travel posters of all of the places mentioned. Just click on the corresponding name to check them out.
Unsurprisingly, Scotland features more than once on the list. Glentress in the Tweed Valley is a must-visit for mountain bikers. With trails ranging from green to black, catering to all abilities. A particular highlight is the ‘Red Route’ featuring not only fun descents, but breathtaking views across the Scottish Borders.
Coed y Brenin is found within the boundaries of Snowdonia National Park and has bragging rights as the UK's first dedicated mountain bike trail centre. Highlights include the Beast of Brenin and the Minotaur Trail.
Dalby Forest in North Yorkshire boasts over 70km of trails. For those in search of a real challenge, the UCI World Cup Trail is a black-graded route that will test even the most experienced riders.
Afan Forest Park in Port Talbot is the perfect mix of scenic beauty and an abundance of trail offerings. Particular highlights are the Whites Level or if you want to make a day of it, the 46km Skyline Loop.
BikePark Wales, near Merthyr Tydfil is a popular and well set up trail centre, which has the benefit of regular uplift services, making it a haven for gravity riders. In short, maximise your time on the trail by jumping in the back of a van with your bike and being deposited a short while later at the Summit of Mynydd Gethin at 491 metres. Rinse and repeat.
Cannock Chase in Staffordshire is home to the award winning Follow the Dog trail. This trail was first designed by a mountain biker quite literally (you guessed it) following a dog.
Grizedale Forest is the second location on our list found within a National Park, this time the Lake District. You’ll find a great mix of natural and man made trails at Grizedale, many with incredible views over Coniston Water.
Forest of Dean Cycle Centre in Gloucestershire has something for everyone. From easy going family-friendly trails (see: Family Cycle Trail) to the 6 mile Verderers’ Trail, often hailed as one of the best blue graded MTB runs in the UK.
Swinley Forest in Berkshire is home to 24km of purpose built trails, as well as ‘The Summit’, a 10 acre skills development and park area. You’ll also find Swinley Bike Hub, an independent bike hire and trail shop.
Part of the renowned 7stanes network, Kirroughtree in Dumfries and Galloway is home to a good mix of easy going trails and challenging singletrack and technical sections. As an added bonus, Kirroughtree cafe is a great spot to rest your legs with good food and even better views.
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