Escape from the real world and experience the hills on two wheels. Mountain biking is becoming increasingly popular with a variety of different people. Whether you’re looking to develop your technical cross-country skills or try your nerve by shredding downhill, we’ve got you covered.
The UK has thousands of miles of accessible off-road routes across the country, with the opportunity to have an adrenaline-packed day of mountain biking, as well as experience stunning landscapes.
Our off-road guide is full of exhilarating trails to add to your MTB bucket list.
The South Downs way – Hampshire / East Sussex
The South Downs Way is a classic off-road route
This 100 mile route takes you the length of the South Downs, passing attractive wildlife, pretty villages and fine pubs. It’s a perfect route to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, but only be a few minutes away from civilisation.
The South Downs Way is the only national trail in the UK that is fully traversable by bike and is full with hundreds of tracks, trails, disused railway lines and leafy lanes just waiting to be discovered.
You can ride along the ridge to Ditchling Beacon or cycle along the single-track trails in Queen Elizabeth Country Park; the opportunities are endless.
Rhyd Ddu – Snowdon, Wales
Looking for something hardcore, then why not head for Snowdon
This incredible mountain circuit will take you to the top of Wales’ highest peak and back down again on an unforgettable ride.
Your route will kick off with a steep ascent up to Bwlch Maesgwn, where the trail then drops down to Llanberis before heading up to the peak of the mountain. The trail can be highly challenging and it can be tricky to stay in control, so we therefore suggest this is best reserved for experienced mountain bikers looking to hone their skills.
It is definitely an unmissable experience and you will have an absolute blast, but remember this is a mountain trail and is pretty secluded, so make sure you pack the essentials. Emergency equipment and a charged mobile phone are a must on this nail-biting adventure!
Cannock Chase – Midlands
Cannock Chase has trails to suit all the family young and old
Home to the 7 mile ‘Follow the Dog’ and 14 mile ‘Monkey Trail’, Cannock Chase has the first purpose-built MTB trails in the Midlands.
The trails twist and turn through the pine forest, which is filled with wildlife including wild deer. The routes are maintained by a group of volunteers leaving perfect smooth flowing routes all year round.
The charm of the Chase is that it offers a variety of different routes suitable for all abilities, including new riders and families looking for a weekend adventure in the wilderness.
Jacobs Ladder – Peak District
Normally ridden as part of the classic Dark Peak loop, many riders start at Edale, then head onto Jacobs Ladder and finish up along Rushup edge.
If you’re used to well-groomed trails, then Jacobs Ladder will definitely be something of a shocker! At 17.5 miles long, this rocky terrain is definitely for those more experience riders, as it requires fitness, skill, nerve and a dash of crazy to be able to make it to the bottom without going over the bar.
This highly technical path has been labelled the rocky garden and for good reason. It really needs to be ridden to be believed and remember, we did warn you…
Nan Bield Pass – The Lake District
Too many trails to mention in the Lake District
The Lake District has long been a favourable mountain bike destination due to its rugged and challenging landscape, with the Nan Bield Pass dubbed to be one of the best trails of all.
The 35km route requires a high level of skill and is jam packed with fantastic views, technical routes and hair-raising descents.
While your ride may start off easy, don’t be fooled, as the second half is tricky even for the most experienced cyclists! The route will take you from the Cumbrian village of Staveley, past beautiful countryside and waterfalls, whilst gradually building up to the infamous path itself.
You will finish your ride with a jaw clenching descent through Kentmere Common to round off an epic adventure.
Dalby Forest – North Yorkshire
Much like Cannock Chase, Dalby Forest in South Yorkshire is the perfect location for mountain bikers of all abilities.
Offering 2 to 6 mile green trails, perfect for young children to adrenaline packed red routes filled with twists, turns and uneven terrain, there is a route for everyone!
Dalby Forest also features a black rated World Cup Course stretching 6.5km. Unique to the area, the route includes some technical descents and some very steep climbs, perfect for those more experienced riders looking for a thrill.
Nevis Range – Scottish Highlands
The Nevis Range is the mountain biker;’s ultimate paradise
Home to extreme sport, the Nevis Range in Fort William has earned a good reputation amongst mountain biking enthusiasts.
The famous region includes a network of routes known as ‘The Witch Trails’ which are suitable for all abilities, from families to thrill seekers looking for that white knuckle experience.
The incredible scenic surroundings only add to the charm of these spectacular routes, with mountain ranges beautiful enough to take your breath away and that’s before you’ve even got on your bike!
