Here in the UK we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to exciting mountain bike trails and there are miles of accessible routes out there that offer something for everyone; from adrenalin-fuelled downhill rides full of technical challenges, to gentle cross-country routes that give you time to take in the scenery, all surrounded by stunning landscapes.
If you’re looking for some inspiration for your next trip, we’ve chosen eight of our favourite mountain biking trails in the UK for you to add to your MTB wish list. We’ve included something for everyone, and while they may not be as hair-raising as some of the most treacherous bike trails in the world, there are still some challenging rides in there. Let’s take a look.
Nan Bield Pass – The Lake District
Distance – 22 miles
Difficulty level – Difficult
Highest point – 628m
Lowest Point – 198m
While it eases you into the ride gently, don’t be fooled as the second half of the ride can be very challenging – a test for both your muscles and your skills. As you’d expect in the Lakes, you get spectacular views that include waterfalls, rocky ridges and lush countryside. There’s a fair bit of hike-a-biking involved in this route, but the rewards are definitely worth it. It has everything you want from an MTB trail, including plenty of high passes and a hair-raising descent.
Cut Gate – The Peak District
Distance – 21.5 miles
Difficulty level – Difficult
Highest point – 529m
Lowest point – 250m
Just north of the stunning Ladybower Reservoir in the Peak District, this trail will test your skills, your reflexes and your nerve. You’ll get open moorland, steep rocky trails, a few streams and amazing views of the reservoir. Some of the trails are on exposed peat and could get boggy, so check recent weather conditions before trying this. There’s some debate about whether North/South is better than South/North, but we prefer the out and back version.
Ullswater – The Lake District
Distance – 9 miles
Difficulty level – Moderate
Highest point – 496m
Lowest point – 154m
Taking in the 2nd largest lake after Windermere, this is a really rewarding trail. Nine miles might not seem a lot, compared to the other trails, but remember, this is the Lake District, and these Lakeland trails can be a real test; there’s no sitting back while you free wheel on this one. There’s a little bit of carrying involved, depending on your ability, not a lot of flat and a mix of climbs and descents that will get your adrenaline flowing and really test your skills. It’s great to do in either direction; whichever way you choose your final descent will give you fantastic views and a real sense of accomplishment.
The Dog Trail – Cannock Chase, Staffordshire
Distance – 7 miles
Difficulty level – Moderate
Highest point – 230m
Lowest point – 119m
‘Follow the Dog’ is one of the first purpose-built MTB trails in the Midlands and it has different routes for different abilities, although the surface can be mixed with loose stones, roots and mud. While it’s great to head off into the wild unknown, sometimes you just want a good ride without all the planning, to just get on your bike and go, and this is where trail centres come into their own. The routes are all well-maintained and weatherproof and it’s convenient, you could even go for a ride after work, and because everything’s taken care of you can really hone your biking skills. And if you fancy more of a challenge you can add on the 14 mile ‘Monkey Trail’.
Dalby Forest – North Yorkshire
Distance – Varies between 2.4 to 21 miles
Difficulty level – Varied – from green to black
Highest point – 251m
Lowest point – 90m
Situated right on our doorstep here at The Insurance Emporium and included in our blog about family bike rides in Yorkshire, this is a bit of a favourite of ours. The trails are ideal for families wanting a leisurely ride, as well as more serious riders who want to test their skills, their nerve, and their suspension! The trails take you through some dense woodland, particularly in the summer when the foliage is thick and you’re riding through a diverse mix of almost prehistoric fauna and flora. If you’re lucky you might catch a glimpse of a badger or a roe deer among the oak trees and wildflowers, and the view of the moors will take your breath away almost as much as those zigzags will. And if you fancy putting yourself in the saddle of the pros, the XC racecourse at Dalby was purpose-built for the 2010 World Cup and offers switchbacks, relentless climbs and a near-vertical drop.
Forest of Dean – Gloucestershire
Distance – Varies between 3 to 10 miles
Difficulty level – Varied – from green to red
Highest point – 227m
Lowest point – 72m
Another all-rounder, the Forest of Dean has something for everyone. Set in ancient woodland that is an Area of Natural Beauty, it clocks up a whopping 100,000 rides a year and is the only trail centre with a specially-designed track for four-wheeled disability bikes. The green family trail has wide gravelled tracks with a few short climbs and was named No.1 in The Guardian’s list of British Cycle Routes in 2007. The blue Verderers trail is a great intermediate trail with some tricky challenges that finishes in a great descent, while the red Freemines trail is more demanding, with some steep drops and hairpin bends. All trails offer amazing views and even the chance of spotting a wild boar!
Sherwood Pines – Nottinghamshire
Distance – Varies between 3 and 8 miles
Difficulty level – Varied for all levels including blue/green/orange/red trails
Highest point – 118m
Lowest point – 77m
Set deep in Sherwood Forest, the home of Robin Hood, with easy access from the local Center Parcs, there are trails here for everyone. From families who want an easy ride of fairly flat trails, to the much more challenging ‘Kitchener’ route which has a bit of a roller-coaster feel to it, despite being set in fairly flat surroundings. Originally used as training ground for WW1 soldiers, Sherwood Pines has plenty of tracks leading off from the main track for anyone wanting some off-piste action. There’s also a bike park with plenty of dirt jumps and a downhill zone with enough technical features and challenging terrain to hone your skills.
Jacob’s Ladder Loop – The Peak District
Distance – 17.5 miles
Difficulty level – Difficult
Highest point – 549m
Lowest point – 237m
We’re finishing off back in the Peak District with part of the classic Dark Peak loop, the Jacob’s Ladder Loop, one that’s not for the faint-hearted. While it’s not a particularly long route, the tough, rocky terrain, difficult climbs and steep, tricky descents make it feel much longer, and at times you’re going to have to push your bike. This one can be tough going for even the most experienced rider, testing both your downhill skills and your level of fitness (if you want to improve your performance, read our blog about strength exercises for cyclists). The loop takes in three rocky descents; Rushup Edge and Roych Clough, South Head and Hayfield, and Jacob’s Ladder, but you’ll be rewarded by spectacular views of Mam Tor, once you get your breath back!
Whether you want to be out in the wild, left to your own devices and not knowing what’s around the corner, or on a purpose-built course that you don’t have to think about, there’s something here for everyone. Of course, it’s important that you remember the basic tips for going out on the trails:
- Wear a helmet and protective clothing; gloves etc.
- Make sure your bike is in good working order
- Respect other trail users; walkers, horse riders etc.
- Make sure you’re prepared for anything, with water, snacks, first aid, a repair kit and fully charged gadgets
- Always check the weather forecast in the days leading up to your ride
- Be aware of your surroundings and know your location at all times
- Be aware of your limits
Something else you might want to think about is insuring your mountain bike. Bicycle insurance isn’t just about theft or damage, it can also cover you for accidents and public liability, and that’s just the start. We’ve got years of experience behind us when it comes to cycle insurance, so we’ve created three standard policy types that you can tailor with optional benefits such as gadget and mobile phone cover. So take a look and get a free, no-strings quote that will leave you free to focus on those tricky descents while we worry about the rest.
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