Britain's 50 Best Trail Centres by Dave Clutterbuck

BRITAIN’S

50BEST TRAIL CENTRES MUST-RIDE ROUTES AND BIKE PARKS HGGFHFGHGFHGFHGFHGFHGFHFGHFGHF FOR EVERY MOUNTAIN BIKER DGHFHGFHFGHFGHGFHFGHFH

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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BRITAIN’S

50BEST TRAIL CENTRES MUST-RIDE ROUTES AND BIKE PARKS HGGFHFGHGFHGFHGFHGFHGFHFGHFGHF FOR EVERY MOUNTAIN BIKER DGHFHGFHFGHFGHGFHFGHFH

f you’re anything like us, there’ll be nothing that gives you a buzz quite like mountain biking does. And a trail centre blast is the best way to guarantee that you get that buzz on every single ride. If you’re wondering which trail centre you should ride though, that’s where this guide comes in. Within these pages is all the info you need on what we consider to be Britain’s 50 best trail centres. Whether you want a place to take your newbie mates, a place that’s great to ride all year round, in all sorts of weather, or if you want to be able to get a decent cuppa and a slab of cake at the end of a long, muddy ride, you’ll ﬁnd your perfect trail centre destination here. The focus is on cross-country style trails, but we’ve included some class downhill locations and bike parks too. We tell you how to get there, what facilities are available and, most importantly, what the riding is like. So what more is there to do than grab your bike, get your helmet on and get riding? See you on the trails… The MBUK Wrecking Crew team powered by

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MUST-RIDE ROUTES AND BIKE PARKS HGGFHFGHGFHGFHGFHGFHGFHFGHFGHF FOR EVERY MOUNTAIN BIKER DGHFHGFHFGHFGHGFHFGHFH

TRAIL CENTRES

50BEST

BRITAIN’S 27

35 21 25

30 34

13 12

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21 AE FOREST P51 22 ARRAN P52 23 BALBAIR P54 24 CARRON VALLEY P57 25 DALBEATTIE P59 26 DRUMLANRIG P61 27 FIRE TOWER TRAIL P62 28 FORT WILLIAM P64 29 GLENTRESS P67 30 GOLSPIE P68 31 INNERLEITHEN P71 32 KIRROUGHTREE P72 33 LAGGAN WOLFTRAX P74 34 LEARNIE P76 35 MABIE P79 36 MORAY P82 37 NEWCASTLETON P84

SCOTLAND

All the trails in the guide have colour-coded gradings. These gradings refer to a trail’s level of difﬁculty. In some cases, a trail does not have an ofﬁcial grading – these are marked as purple.

Green: Easy

48 PORC P109 49 THE TRACK P110 50 UK BIKE PARK P113

BIKE PARKS

Blue routes require basic off-road riding skills – you should expect more singletrack, rocks and roots than a green trail, but nothing that you’d call extreme.

Blue: Moderate

38 AFAN P87 39 BRECHFA P89 40 CLIMACHX TRAIL P90 41 COED LLANDEGLA P92 42 COED TRALLWM P95 43 COED-Y-BRENIN P97 44 CWMCARN P100 45 GWYDYR FOREST P102 46 NANT-Y-ARIAN P104 47 PENMACHNO P107

WALES

Relatively ﬂat and wide trails, that are suitable for young people, beginners or families. They may have the odd singletrack or loose section, but there’ll be nothing steep or technical.

SOME NOTES ABOUT GRADING

1 ASHTON COURT P9 2 ASTON HILL P11 3 CANNOCK CHASE P12 4 CHICKSANDS P14 5 DALBY P17 6 DELAMERE P20 7 FOREST OF DEAN P23 8 GAWTON P24 9 GISBURN P27 10 GRIZEDALE P28 11 HALDON P30 12 HAMSTERLEY P32 13 KIELDER P35 14 LEE QUARRY P37 15 SHERWOOD PINES P38 16 STAINBURN P41 17 SWINLEY FOREST P42 18 THETFORD P44 19 WHARNCLIFFE WOODS P46 20 WHINLATTER P48

ENGLAND

CENTRES IN THIS GUIDE

Red: Difﬁcult

Not for beginners. You’ll need good riding skills, decent ﬁtness and a ‘proper’ mountain bike. Expect plenty of singletrack, as well as various obstacles and technical sections.

45 47 43

Black: Severe

Black routes are physically very demanding and are only for technically able riders.

14 15

You’ll need good bike handling skills and good ﬁtness. Jumping may often be compulsory.

Orange: Bike Parks, extreme

50 17

When a trail does not have an ofﬁcial grade, check the description in the guide to get an idea of what it is like.

Purple: No ofﬁcial grading

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England

Ashton Court

At a Glance WHO IS it GOOD FOR? Beginners: 2/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 2/3 Facilities Café, parking, rail link, toilets Nearest bike shop Mud Dock, Bristol, 0117 929 2151 MORE INFORMATION www.bristoltrailsgroup.com www.forestofavon.org.uk The Trails  Timberland Trail: c.9km

Ashton Court About the centre

The Timberland Trail is 10 minutes’ ride from Bristol city centre. The riding’s not technical, and is suitable for a wide range of MTBers. Don’t miss the section across the road in Abbots Leigh – it contains the route’s best singletrack.

How to get there

Ashton Court is two miles from Bristol city centre. The trails begin just behind the gatehouse to the estate, on the A369 towards Portishead, near the Clifton Suspension Toll Bridge. Come off the bridge, go straight ahead at the crossroads and you’re there. Grid Ref: ST 558727 Sat Nav: BS41 9JN

THE TRAILS Timberland Trail

Distance: c.9km Time: 1-1.5hrs Technicality: 2/5 The trail officially runs anti-clockwise, although it’s often ridden in the other direction, and with

good reason. In the summer months, the trail dries hard and becomes a fast, tree-dodging speeder with plenty of corners to lean through and the odd rocky/rooty section to keep you alert. In

the winter the trail pretty much vanishes into the mud and becomes heavily eroded. The fast corners are replaced by slips and slides and you’ll need to watch out for the roots!

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England

Aston Hill

At a Glance Who is it good for? Beginners: 0/3 Intermediate: 2/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Parking Nearest bike shop Buckingham Bikes, Aylesbury, 01296 482077 MORE INFORMATION www.rideastonhill.co.uk The Trails  XC Loop: c.9km  Downhill Runs (4 courses): Various  4X Course: N/A

Aston Hill About the centre

Aston Hill is one of the south east’s main downhill venues, with several tracks, a 4X course and a short, fun XC loop. The hill regularly plays host to races, events and training sessions and has limited opening hours – make sure you check www.rideastonhill.co.uk for details.

How to get there

From Aylesbury, take the A41 south towards Hemel Hempstead. Follow the road as it becomes a dual carriageway and take the second exit onto the B4009. Follow this west towards Wendover, turning left to stay on the B4009. Once the woods appear on your left, turn left to climb a minor road. The car park is on your left about halfway up the hill. Grid Ref: SP 891101 Sat Nav: HP22 5NQ

THE TRAILS XC Loop

Distance: c.9km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 3/5 The XC loop combines a run down the easiest downhill trail with a slog back to the top.

The trail is a bit short, but makes up for it in fun.

Downhill and 4X

Distance: N/A Time: N/A Technicality: 5/5

The four downhill tracks share two main features – they’re very steep and very rooty! The 4X track is smoother and wider with some jumps and fast turns.

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Cannock Chase

England

At a Glance Who is it good for? Beginners: 1/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Bike hire, bike shop, pay & display parking, toilets Nearest bike shop Swinnerton Cycles (on site), 01889 575170 MORE INFORMATION www.chasetrails.co.uk www.bikechase.co.uk The Trails  Follow the Dog: 11km  Monkey: 24km  Downhill Area: N/A

Cannock Chase About the centre

Right in the middle of England, Cannock is easily reached by a lot of riders. Follow The Dog is popular, and Monkey is a great recent addition.

How to get there

The XC trails begin at Birches Valley Visitor Centre. From Rugeley, take the A51 from the roundabout where it joins the A460 and head north towards Wolseley Bridge. At the first traffic lights, turn left onto Hagley Road and follow it out of town. Turn left by the Birches Valley sign, and left into the car park. For the downhill area, leave Rugeley on the A460 to Hednesford and turn left just outside town. The car park is on the left at the top of the hill. Grid Ref: SK 018170 Sat Nav: WS15 2UQ

THE TRAILS Follow The Dog

Distance: 11km Time: 0.75-1.5hrs Technicality: 3/5 Follow The Dog is mainly singletrack – and it’s varied singletrack at that. It’s rideable in less than an hour, but is entertaining enough for repeat laps.

Monkey

Distance: 24km (inc Follow The Dog) Time: 2-3hours Technicality: 4/5 The Monkey offers some classic, well surfaced trail with optional black sections, but there’s nothing too intimidating. The lack of gradient is made up for with a lot of switchback climbing, so be prepared for that.

Downhill Area

Distance: N/A Time: N/A Technicality: 5/5 There are several downhill runs at Stile Cop near Rugeley. The runs are fairly short, taking a minute or so to ride from top to bottom, and there are berms, drops and jumps.

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England

Chicksands

England

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 2/3 Intermediate: 2/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Parking Nearest bike shop Pedals, Biggleswade, 01767 313418 MORE INFORMATION www.chicksandsbikepark.co.uk The Trails  Blue Route: 4km  Red Route: 5.5km  Downhill /4X / North Shore: N/A

Chicksands About the centre

Chicksands is a small area of woodland near Bedford that’s become a massively popular riding spot. There are two cross-country trails, extensive North Shore trails, dirt jumps and downhill runs. You have to pay to use the jumps and North Shore – either buy a day ticket or get yourself an annual membership.

How to get there

From Bedford, head south on the A600, following signs to Shefford. Chicksands is in Rowney Warren Woods, which are on your left after about 7.5 miles. Grid Ref: TL 116416 Sat Nav: Chicksands

THE TRAILS Blue Route

Distance: 4km Time: 0.5-1hr Technicality: 1/5 The blue route sticks to wide forest trails and easy tracks and is very beginner-friendly.

Red Route

Distance: 5.5km Time: 0.5-1hr Technicality: 2/5 The red route uses some of the forest’s singletrack trails and steeper climbs to create a slightly more challenging route that runs through the forest.

Downhill / 4X / North Shore

Distance: N/A Time: N/A Technicality: 5/5 With a 4X course, dirt jumps and drops, there’s plenty for jumpers and downhillers. Further into the woods is a freeride area, with North Shore, gap jumps and drops.

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England

Dalby

At a Glance Who is it good for? Beginners: 3/3 Intermediate: 2/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Bike hire, bike shop, café, pay & display parking, toilets, visitor centre Nearest bike shop Purple Mountain Bike Centre (on site), 01751 460011 MORE INFORMATION www.forestry.gov.uk/dalbyforest Dalby Visitor Centre, 01751 460295 The Trails  Ellersway Family Cycle Route: 3km  Adderstone Cycle Trail: 10km  Blue Route: 14km  Red Route: 37km  World Cup XC: 6.8km  Dixon’s Hollow Bike Park: N/A

Dalby About the centre

Dalby Forest is England’s largest trail centre, and it offers a wide range of trails and Dixon’s Hollow Bike Park. There’s also a full range of facilities.

How to get there

From Pickering, follow the A169 north towards Whitby, turning right just before the Fox and Rabbit Pub onto the Thornton-le-Dale road. The Forest Drive is on your left after a short way. Grid Ref: SE 857873 Sat Nav: YO18 7LT

THE TRAILS Ellersway Family Cycle Route

covers forest roads and grass tracks. It’s not difficult – there are a couple of short climbs and a few descents. To make it longer or more challenging, combine it with the blue route.

Adderstone Cycle Trail

Distance: 14km Time: 1-2.5hrs Technicality: 2/5 A good route for getting out and covering a fair distance, but not for admiring the views or for swooping along singletrack.

Distance: 3km Time: 1hr Technicality: 1/5 Nothing strenuous here – this is a chilled-out ride along forest roads. Ideal for families.

Distance: 9.6km Time: 2hrs Technicality: 1/5 The start of the green route can be found at Adderstone Field. It’s a relatively short ride that

Blue Route

Red Route

Distance: 37km Time: 3-4hrs Technicality: 3/5 Dalby’s red route is a long trail with a lot of good, varied singletrack. Although it’s not massively technical or steep, it can be tiring, so there several shortcuts.

World Cup XC

Distance: 6.5km Time: 1hr Technicality: 5/5 Dalby’s old black route has closed, but in its place is the black XC World Cup

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Dalby

England

THE TRAILS course. It’s a pro level track, but you can have a go at most of it too. The 6.5km bolt-on to the red route offers such treacherous challenges as Medusa’s Drop and Worry Gill. Make sure you check the Forestry Commission’s website before going though, as there’s often

maintenance going on coming up to World Cup time.

Dixon’s Hollow Bike Park

Distance: N/A Time: N/A Technicality: N/A Dixon’s Hollow Bike Park offers riders a slightly higher adrenaline level, including a 4X track and some North Shore skinnies.

“The great thing about Dalby is that there are so many ways to ride it. Pin the drifts, drops and snaking singletrack of the red route flat-out, test yourself against the pros on the World Cup cross-country circuit or play at the freeride skills park.” Guy Kesteven MBUK Writer

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England

Delamere

England

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 3/3 Intermediate: 2/3 Advanced: 2/3 Facilities Bike hire, bike wash, café, parking, rail link, shop, toilets, visitor centre MORE INFORMATION www.forestry.gov.uk Delamere Visitor Centre, 01606 889792 The Trails  Hunger Hill Trail: 6km  Whitemoor Trail: 11km  Skills Area and Singletrack: N/A

Delamere About the centre

There’s something for most riders here, from families and beginners to downhillers and jumpers. Easily reachable from Manchester, it’s a very popular riding spot.

How to get there

From Chester, take the A51 east towards Nantwich. Turn left after five miles onto the A54, following signs to Manchester. After four miles, turn left onto the A556 and then, once in Delamere, turn left onto the B5152. The visitor centre is on your left, by Delamere train station. Grid Ref: SJ 548704 Sat Nav: CW8 2JD

THE TRAILS Hunger Hill Trail

Distance: 6km Time: 0.5-1.5hrs Technicality: 1/5

Whitemoor Trail

Distance: 11km Time: 1-3hrs Technicality: 1/5 There are two easy trails at Delamere. Starting from the Linmere visitor

centre, either follow purple waymarks around the 6km Hunger Hill Trail, or white arrows to follow the 11km Whitemoor Trail.

Singletrack and Skills Area

Distance: N/A Time: N/A Technicality: N/A It’s not waymarked or mapped, but

there is dirt singletrack all over Delamere forest. It’s not technical, but it is twisty and rooty. There is also a skills area with a 4X track, dirt jumps, a few road (track) gaps and short, bermed runs. It’s good fun, but is a bit limited if you don’t like getting your wheels in the air.

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England

Forest of Dean

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 2/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 2/3 Facilities Bike hire, bike shop, café, pay & display parking, showers, toilets, uplift service Nearest bike shop Pedalabikeaway Cycle Centre (on site), 01594 860065 MORE INFORMATION www.fodca.org.uk The Trails  FODCA Trail: 5km Downhill Runs (7 courses)

Forest of Dean About the centre

Lying on the Wales/England border, the Forest of Dean is full of good mountain biking. There are wide forest tracks and tight singletracks. The FODCA Trail is the only waymarked loop, offering 5km of technical singletrack.

How to get there

The FODCA Trail is just north of the crossroads between the B4226 and the B4234 in the Forest of Dean. At the crossroads, head north on the B4234 and turn left after a couple of hundred metres, into what appears to be Gloucestershire Highways Cannop Depot – the car park is on the side of this. Grid Ref: SO 608118 Sat Nav: GL16 7EH

THE TRAILS FODCA Trail

Distance: 5km Time: 0.5-1hr Technicality: 3/5 The FODCA Trail is short but tricky. It follows singletrack through the woods. Some sections are relatively smooth, but much of the trail

is rooty, so line choice is critical. The corkscrew section near the end is a highlight. Other riding… The Forest of Dean contains miles of good singletrack, so go explore. There’s

also a number of downhill runs cut into the hillside. They are all short, but tricky to ride, with tight, steep corners and big jumps. There’s an uplift service too – more info at www. flyupdownhill.co.uk.

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Gawton

England

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 1/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Parking, uplift service Nearest bike shop Dartmoor Cycles, Tavistock, 01822 618178 MORE INFORMATION www.woodlandriders.com The Trails Downhill Runs (3 courses)  HSD Red  Egypt Black  Super Tavi Black

Gawton About the centre

Gawton has become established as one of the best downhill venues in the south west thanks to its technically challenging tracks and uplift service. The three tracks play host to regular coaching and race days, and there’s a weekend uplift service that can be booked for private use during the week. The site looks set to receive its very own centre soon.

How to get there

From Tavistock, take the A390 heading towards Gulworthy for 1.4 miles until you reach the B3257, where you will need to bear off to the left. After a mile on the B3257, turn right down a narrow lane towards the woodland. You will see Gawton car park after 0.1 miles on your left. Grid Ref: SX 45859 69629 Sat Nav: Tavistock

THE TRAILS HSD

Distance: N/A Time: N/A Technicality: 3/5 HSD offers a smooth, flowing trail that winds its way down the hill on a manmade surface.

Egypt

Distance: N/A Time: N/A Technicality: 5/5 Egypt is the most natural of the three downhill tracks. It’s littered with roots, rocks, drops and steep switchbacks.

Super Tavi

Distance: N/A Time: N/A Technicality: 5/5 Super Tavi kicks off with some big jumps and drops and is the fastest of all the tracks. It has a mix of manmade obstacles, roots, rocks and drops, along with some steep switchbacks.

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England

Gisburn

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 2/3 Intermediate: 2/3 Advanced: 2/3 Facilities Parking Nearest bike shop ATR Cycles, Clitheroe, 01254 825896 Pedal Power, Clitheroe, 01200 422066 MORE INFORMATION www.forestry.gov.uk The Trails  Blue Route: 9.5km  The 8: 18km

Gisburn About the centre

There’s a lot going on at Gisburn. There’s an easy blue route, The 8 red route and several downhill runs – all of which are well worth riding. Trails start from Cocklet Hill car park.

How to get there

From Skipton, head north-west towards Kendal on the A65 to Long Preston. In Long Preston, turn left onto the B6478 towards Clitheroe. Follow this through the villages of Wigglesworth and Tosside and then turn right up a minor road signed to Gisburn Forest. Park at Cocklet Hill car park, which is on your right immediately after entering the forest. Grid Ref: SD 745550 Sat Nav: Slaidburn

THE TRAILS Blue Route

Distance: 9.5km Time: 1.5-2hrs Technicality: 2/5 If you want a nice easy ride, the blue route is worth a shot. It’s a good combination of forest road, pleasant surroundings and singletrack. You’ll pop out by the car

park at the end with a grin on your face.

The 8

Distance: 18km Time: 1.5-3hrs Technicality: 3/5 The 8 is an odd trail. Each section of singletrack is different to the rest. It doesn’t have amazing flow, but

every section leaves you looking for a way back up for another run. Home Baked is dark, narrow and fast, Whelpstone Crag has rough berms and optional black lines, and Hully Gully rollercoasters up and down the sides of a huge gully.

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Grizedale

England

At a Glance Who is it good for? Beginners: 2/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 2/3 Facilities Bike hire, bike shop, café, pay & display parking, toilets, visitor centre Nearest bike shop Grizedale Mountain Bikes (on site), 01229 860335 MORE INFORMATION www.forestry.gov.uk/thenorthfacetrail Grizedale Visitor Centre, 01229 860010 The Trails  The North Face Trail: 16km

Grizedale About the centre

The Lake District contains some of the best mountain biking in the UK and the Grizedale trail centre has added a reliable, all-weather ride to the area. The North Face Trail is ideal for intermediate riders wanting an enjoyable but not overly technical ride.

How to get there

Head south out of Hawkshead, turning right up a tiny lane signposted to Grizedale just as you leave the houses. The centre is on your right after about two miles. Grid Ref: SD 335943 Sat Nav: LA22 0QJ

THE TRAILS The North Face Trail

Distance: 16km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 3/5 The North Face Trail isn’t too technical, but does have a pleasant switchback climb, entertaining sections of boardwalk and plenty of fun singletrack. It’s

doable for fairly inexperienced riders but is still enjoyable for better riders who are happy going at higher speeds. Other riding… The 3km Goosey Foot Tarn Trail begins from Moor Top car park and follows relatively flat, wide trails. The

Grizedale Tarn Trail is 9.5km starting from Bogle Crag car park. The Moor Top, Hawkshead Moor and Silurian Way trails are 11km, 16km and 22.5km respectively and start from the visitor centre. Other than that, just get out a map and use your imagination!

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Haldon

England

At A GlAnce who is it good for? Beginners: 3/3 Intermediate: 2/3 Advanced: 2/3 facilities Bike hire, café, pay & display parking, showers, toilets Nearest bike shop Forest Cycle Hire (on site – no shop), 01392 833768 More iNforMatioN www.forestry.gov.uk/haldonforestpark the trails  Discovery Trail: 2.5km  Challenge Trail: 9.5/12.3km  Ridge Ride Trail: 9km  Skills Area and Pump Trail: N/A

Haldon About the centre

At 3,500 acres, Haldon Forest covers a large area, comprised mainly of pine woodland and sections of open heathland. There are several mountain bike trails within the forest.

How to get there

From Exeter, head south on the A38 towards Plymouth. Continue on the A38 towards Exeter racecourse and then follow brown tourist signs towards Haldon Belvedere off the main road. The car park is on your left, in the forest. Grid Ref: SX 885847 Sat Nav: EX6 7XR

THE TRAILS Discovery Trail

Distance: 2.5km Time: 0.5hrs Technicality: 1/5 A very easy, surfaced trail for beginners. Walkers use the trail too, so be considerate.

Challenge Trail

Distance: 9.5km/12.3km Time: 1hr Technicality: 2/5 A step up from the Discovery Trail, with a few narrower parts and some slight gradients, but

nothing challenging. You can choose between the long loop or the short version too.

1km extension to the red with various technical features such as roots, rocks and berms.

Ridge Ride Trail

Skills Area and Pump Trail

Distance: 9km Time: 0.5-1hr Technicality: 3/5 A not-too-difficult red route that starts with narrow singletrack that weaves through trees. It’s worth riding a couple of laps. The blackgraded Ridge Ride Extreme offers a

Distance: N/A Time: N/A Technicality: N/A The skills area is designed to give a taster of the features on the other trails found at Haldon. There’s also a pump trail with plenty of bumps and bends.

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FoR moRe INFo oN THIS TRAIl AND mANy moRe, CHeCk ouT MountAin BikinG trAil centres: the Guide By Tom FeNToN

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England

Haldon

5/12/11 4:38:35 PM

Hamsterley

England

At a Glance Who is it good for? Beginners: 3/3 Intermediate: 2/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Bike hire, bike shop, café, pay & display parking, toilets, visitor centre Nearest bike shop Wood N Wheels (on site), 01388 488222 MORE INFORMATION www.hamsterley-trailblazers.co.uk Hamsterley Visitor Centre, 01388 488312 The Trails  Green: 5km  Blue: 15km  Red: 22km  Black: 1km  Downhill / 4X Area: N/A  The Loop Skills Area: N/A

Hamsterley About the centre

There’s a lot of riding at Hamsterley, for XC, downhill and 4Xers alike. The downhill/4X area often hosts races.

How to get there

From Durham, head south on the A690 towards Crook. Stay on this road as it becomes the A689 at Crook, and turn left at the roundabout junction with the A68. Head for Darlington and turn right after three miles, following signs for Hamsterley. Once in Hamsterley, turn right into the centre. After about a mile, cross the river and turn left onto the forest drive. Grid Ref: NZ 092312 Sat Nav: DL13 3NL

THE TRAILS Green

Distance: 5km Time: 0.5-1hr Technicality: 1/5 The green route has a fair amount of climbing with some surprisingly steep sections.

Blue

Distance: 15km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 1/5 A route for those who like to cover distance. It heads up the valley, and ends with a long, fast descent.

Red

Distance: 22km Time: 2-3hrs Technicality: 2/5 Essentially a longer, harder version of the blue, with bigger and steeper climbs and more exposure.

Black

Distance: 11km Time: 1-1.5hrs Technicality: 4/5 The black route offers a great technical blast and a different style of riding to the other trails here.

Downhill / 4X Area

Distance: N/A Time: N/A Technicality: 5/5 The downhill trails are tough and pretty technical. The 4X course is long, wide and sandy. Sign on at the shed to ride these trails. The DH area has its own car park – through Hamsterley village, on the right after three miles.

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England

Kielder

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 1/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 2/3 Facilities Bike hire, bike shop, café, campsite, pay & display parking, toilets, visitor centre, youth hostel Nearest bike shop The Bike Place, 0845 634 1895 MORE INFORMATION www.kieldertrailreavers.org.uk The Trails  Deadwater: 15km  Up and Over: 2km (addition to red)  Skills Area: N/A

Kielder About the centre

Sitting in the middle of a massive forest, the manmade trails at Kielder are a solid addition to the region. The paths have plenty of singletrack and some tough climbs, and offer quite technical riding.

How to get there

From Carlisle, follow the A7 north towards Hawick. After about 13 miles, turn right onto the B6357 and go through Newcastleton. Pick up signs for Kielder Water and Forest Park, and in Saughtree turn right onto the C200. Kielder Castle is about seven miles down this road. Grid Ref: NY 632936 Sat Nav: NE48 1HX

THE TRAILS Deadwater

Distance: 15km Time: 1-2.5hrs Technicality: 3/5 An enjoyable route with descents, berms and forest singletrack. The final downhill

swings around berms and into a flowing dirt section.

Up and Over

Distance: 2km (addition to red) Time: 1-2.5hrs Technicality: 4/5

Kielder’s black route branches off the red, missing out the red’s final descent and adding a tricky climb and technical downhill. The rock sections take skill and perseverance.

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England

Lee Quarry, Rossendale

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 1/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 2/3 Facilities Parking, place of interest Nearest bike shop Ride On, Rawtenstall, 01706 831101 MORE INFORMATION www.adrenaline-gateway.co.uk The Trails  Red Trail: 5km  Black Extension: 1km

Lee Quarry, Rossendale About the centre

There’s one, fairly short trail at Lee Quarry (although it’s worth riding multiple laps), a trials area and plenty to look at.

How to get there

From Manchester’s M60 ring road, take the M66 north towards Rawtenstall. When the motorway ends, continue onto the A56, then take the A682, and A681 towards Bacup. Parking is on your right, in Futures Park. To find the trails, head to the back right of Futures Park, pass the houses and climb the wide trail up to the quarry. Grid Ref: SD 866211 Sat Nav: OL13 0BB

THE TRAILS Red Trail

Distance: 5km Time: 0.25-0.75hrs Technicality: 3/5 The first half of the trail is almost all climbing, and almost all of it is on wide, easy tracks and simple singletrack. The

second half of the ride is what really makes the trail. The red descends on good, fast singletrack that flows nicely back down to the base of the quarry via some entertaining twists and turns.

Black Extension

Distance: 1km Time: 10 mins Technicality: 4/5 The black extension throws in some rocky challenges, with stone spines, staircases and various drops.

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Sherwood Pines

England

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 3/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Bike hire, bike shop, café, pay & display parking, toilets Nearest bike shop Sherwood Pines Cycles (on site), 01623 822855 MORE INFORMATION www.forestry.gov.uk The Trails  Singletrack: N/A  Forest Roads: Various  Family Cycle Trail: 4.8kn  Adventure Trail: 9.6km  Kitchener Trail: 13km  Bike Park: N/A

Sherwood Pines About the centre

Go to the Forestry Commission-controlled Sherwood Pines, not Sherwood Forest’s visitor centre. In the first, you can ride pretty much where you like (obey the signs). In the second, you’re limited. Fast woodland singletrack litters the area, as well as wide forest tracks, and there’s the purpose-built Kitchener Trail.

How to get there

From Mansfield, take the A6030 heading north east, following signs for Clipstone and Ollerton. Follow the road out of town and through Clipstone and Old Clipstone. Go under the railway bridge and turn right into the well signposted Sherwood Pines. Grid Ref: SK 612637 Sat Nav: NG21 9JL

THE TRAILS Family Cycle Trail

Length: 4.8km Time: 1hr

Adventure Trail

Length: 9.6km Time: 2hrs Both these trails share a quiet forest loop, but the blue extends to an unsurfaced track that pushes skills.

Singletrack

Length: N/A Time: N/A

Forest Roads

Length: Various Time: N/A

Kitchener Trail

Distance: 10km Time: 1-1.5hrs Technicality: 2/5 If you want easy trails, hit the forest

roads. If you want singletrack, pick up the Kitchener Trail, which ducks and weaves through the trees. If you feel a little bit more adventurous, head out to some of the forest’s more hidden singletrack for tight trails, some fast, open riding and jumps and drops.

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England

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England

Stainburn

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 0/3 Intermediate: 1/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Parking Nearest bike shop Chevin Cycles, Otley, 01943 462773 Dirt Wheels, Otley, 01943 466869 Aire Valley Cycles, Keighley, 01535 610839 MORE INFORMATION www.singletraction.org.uk The Trails  Red Trail: c.1km  Descent Line: c.1km  Norwood Edge: 3.2km  Black Trail: c.2km

Stainburn About the centre

Stainburn’s black route is the most technical manmade XC trail in the UK. There’s not much here for you if you can’t ride black routes.

How to get there

From Harrogate, take the A59 west towards Blubberhouses. After seven miles, turn left onto the B6451, signposted Otley. The car park is on your right after about three miles. Grid Ref: SE 210509 Sat Nav: Otley

THE TRAILS Red Trail

Distance: c.1km Time: 0.25-0.5hr Technicality: 3/5 Stainburn’s shortest and easiest route. It swoops down from the car park and climbs through a rock garden into the woods. Then there’s switchbacks, low berms and some small jumps.

Descent Line

Distance: c.1km Time: 5 mins Technicality: 3/5 Turning off at the top of the red route, the Descent Line

snakes through the woods around tight corners, and out into the open. A few fast berms and some high speed rock sections lead you on to two sizeable drops.

Norwood Edge

Distance: 3.2km Time: 0.5-1.5hrs Technicality: 4/5 This might be a short XC route, but it’s by no means easy. It’s quite technical – if your bike handling skills or fitness are lacking, it’ll show!

Black Trail

Distance: c.2km Time: 0.5-1hr Technicality: 5/5 Think you’re a good rider? Find slick slabs a doddle? Reckon steep rock gardens are easy? Know you can balance along boulder-spines and ride North Shore without problems? Got strong legs and well rounded technical climbing skills? Good – you’ll need all this and more to get round Stainburn’s black. Have fun!

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Swinley Forest

England

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 3/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Bike hire, café, parking, toilets Nearest bike shop Mountain Trax, Barkham, 0118 976 1130 MORE INFORMATION www.gorrick.com/swinley The Look Out Discovery Centre, 01344 354400 The Trails Make your own route! Hunt around a little and you’ll find mile upon mile of superb singletrack

Swinley Forest About the centre

If you want sweeping trails, berms or tight corners, you’re in the right place! There’s easier riding to be had on the forest roads too. MTBers are required to buy a permit, which costs £2 from The Look Out Discovery Centre.

How to get there

THE TRAILS Singletrack

Distance: n/a Time: n/a Technicality: 3/5 Singletrack is everywhere! However, it’s not

marked or mapped so you’ll have to get lost to find anything – it’s well worth it though. There are fast and sweeping trails over towards

Crowthorne, bermed descents dropping down from Surrey Hill and long labyrinthine tracks ducking through trees elsewhere.

The Look Out Discovery Centre is a good place to start. The visitor centre there sells permits and maps and has a range of facilities. It’s off the A322, which runs between the M3 (Junction 3) and the M4 (Junction 4). Follow brown tourist signs to The Look Out and Coral Reef. Turn off the A322 onto Nine Mile Ride (B3430) at a roundabout about four miles up from the M3. The Look Out is on your left after 100m. Grid Ref: SU 876661 Sat Nav: RG12 7QW

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Thetford Forest

England

At A GlAnce who is it good for? Beginners: 3/3 Intermediate: 23 Advanced: 3/3 facilities Bike hire, bike shop, café, pay & display parking, toilets, visitor centre Nearest bike shop Bike Art (on site), 01842 810090 More iNforMatioN High Lodge Forest Centre, 01842 815434 www.timbermtb.org www.forestry.gov.uk thetfordforestpark the trails Downhill Runs (3 courses)  Green: 5/10km  Blue: 13km  Red: 8/18km  Black: 17km

Thetford Forest About the centre

Thetford Forest contains decent biking for riders of all abilities. Route maps are available from the visitor centre or the Forestry Commission website. Many of the red and black trails were created by motocross enduro events years ago.

How to get there

From Thetford, take Brandon Road (B1107) north towards Brandon. The trails start at the High Lodge Forest Centre, signed on your left. At the time of print, it cost £6 to get onto the Forest Drive leading to the High Lodge and the start of the trails. They close the gates at night. Grid Ref: TL 811851 Sat Nav: IP27 0AF

THE TRAILS Green

Distance: 5/10km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 1/5 For an easy couple of hours’ riding, the green route is a good choice. It’s a 10km (5km if you take the shortcut) two-way trail along wide forest roads.

Blue

Distance: 13km Time: 1-1.5hrs Technicality: 1/5 The blue route mostly uses wide,

well surfaced trails, but occasionally follows narrower or looser tracks than the green route. There aren’t too many hills though, and it never gets very technical.

Red

Distance: 8/18km Time: 1.5hrs Technicality: 2/5 The red route is a great laugh and surprisingly tiring. The trail follows dirt singletrack –

dodging trees and flicking around corners – that encourages speed.

Black

Distance: 17km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 3/5 There’s something about Thetford’s singletrack that encourages even mild-mannered riders to charge along it like lunatics. Hold back a little though – it saves the best for last.

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England

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Wharncliffe

England

At a Glance Who is it good for? Beginners: 1/3 Intermediate: 2/3 Advanced: 33 Facilities Parking MORE INFORMATION www.wharncliffe.info The Trails  Downhill Trails: N/A  XC Loop: 10km

Wharncliffe About the centre

Wharncliffe is a steep, rocky and muddy wood on the edge of Sheffield. It has a big reputation thanks to its downhill trails and association with former DH World Champ Steve Peat.

How to get there

From Sheffield city centre, follow the ring road to the university and drop down the hill on the dual carriageway onto Penistone Road (A61), following signs to Barnsley. Stay on the A61 for about five miles, into Grenoside. Turn left onto Norfolk Hill and turn right at the crossroads. Follow the road up into the woods. Park in the first main car park on your left. Grid Ref: SK 325950 Sat Nav: Grenoside

THE TRAILS XC Loop

Distance: 10km Time: 1hr Technicality: 4/5 The old black XC loop was a technical trail that struggled up and down the steep hillside, and was buried under mud for half the year. Now there’s a new trail being

planned/built by local riders, with help from SingletrAction.

Downhill Trails

Distance: N/A Time: N/A Technicality: 5/5 Wharncliffe is best known for its downhill runs. They are highly technical.

The trails have suffered erosion though, and the Wharncliffe Riders’ Collective are currently working with the Forestry Commission to tackle this and create “a high quality and well managed venue for downhill MTB”.

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England

Whinlatter Forest

England

At a Glance Who is it good for? Beginners: 3/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 2/3 Facilities Bike hire, bike shop, bike wash, pay & display parking, shop, toilets, visitor centre Nearest bike shop Cyclewise (on site), 01768 778711 Keswick Mountain Bikes, Keswick, 01768 780586 MORE INFORMATION www.forestry.gov.uk The Trails  Quercus Trail: 7.5km  Altura Trail: 19km

Whinlatter Forest About the centre

Lying to the west of Keswick in the Lake District, Whinlatter Forest is a great spot. It contains the blue-graded Quercus Trail and the figure-ofeight Altura Trail.

How to get there

From Keswick, take the A66 west towards Cockermouth. After a couple of miles, enter the village of Braithwaite and turn left onto the B5292. Follow the road through the village and into Whinlatter Forest. The car park and visitor centre are on your right. Grid Ref: NY 209245 Sat Nav: CA12 5TW

THE TRAILS Quercus Trail

Distance: 7.5km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 2/5 The 7.5km Quercus Trail is for reasonably competent cyclists and mountain bikers, including families who are ready for some fun, easy riding.

Altura Trail

Distance: 19km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 3/5 Taken steadily, the relatively straightforward Altura Trail makes a pleasant ride. Hit with a bit more speed, you can add a massive dose of fun. Try not to touch

the brakes through the corners, berms and jumps to make it more enjoyable. The trail is pretty straightforward, but some of the climbs are quite sharp and they do have a few tight corners, as well as rocks and roots that might catch you out.

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England

Scotland

England

Scotland

Ae, 7stanes

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 3/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Bike hire, bike shop, café, pay & display parking, showers, toilets, uplift service, visitor centre Nearest bike shop Ae Bike Shop and Café, www.ae7.co.uk G and G Cycle Centre, Dumfries, 01387 259483 MORE INFORMATION www.ae7.co.uk www.7stanes.gov.uk www.upliftscotland.com The Trails  Ae Valley: 9km  Ae Blue: 13.5km  Ae Line: 24km  Ae Downhill: 1.6km

Ae, 7stanes About the centre

Ae has been a popular downhill venue for several years. In 2005, the red-graded Ae Line was added to the area, with a green route following shortly afterwards.

How to get there

Follow the A701 north out of Dumfries towards Moffat. Turn left after 10 miles onto a minor road, signposted Forest of Ae. The centre is on your right, just after Ae village. Grid Ref: NX 982901 Sat Nav: DG1 1QB

THE TRAILS Ae Valley

Distance: 9km Time: 1-1.5hrs Technicality: 1/5 The Ae Valley Trail is roughly half forest track and half wide, smooth and easily rideable singletrack.

Ae Blue

Distance: 13.5km Time: 1.5-2.5hrs Technicality: 2/5 The Blue Route follows the Ae Valley trail but extends to take in more of the surrounding forest.

Ae Line

Distance: 24km Time: 1.5-3hrs Technicality: 3/5 The Ae Line is a fast, aggressive ride. It’s definitely an XC trail and you can expect climbing. The final descent, The Omega Man, has jumps and drops. The lines are so well built that even the most ground-loving riders will be grinning through the air and landing perfectly by the bottom.

Ae Downhill

Distance: 1.6km Time: 2.3 mins (pro), 5 mins (non-pro) Technicality: 5/5 The Ae Downhill course has played host to a number of races over the years. Starting at the top of Knocksepen Hill, the trail combines technical root and dirt sections with some massive manmade features.

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Arran

England Scotland

At A GlAnce Who is it good for? Beginners: 2/3 Intermediate: 2/3 Advanced: 2/3 facilities Café, parking, shop, toilets Nearest bike shop Arran Adventure Centre, 01770 302244 Brodick Boat & Cycle Hire, 01770 302868 More iNforMatioN www.visitarran.net www.arranbikeclub.com www.calmacbookings.co.uk the trails  Castle Blue: 10km  Blue: 10km  Red: 18km  Black: 35km

Arran About the centre

Arran has a wide array of fantastic, mainly natural trails and terrific views. Any ride on the island has a real sense of occasion and adventure. Arran isn’t a ‘trail centre’ as such, and you’ll need a map to get around. The routes described here all begin in the town of Brodick.

How to get there

There are two ferry services to Arran – Ardrossan to Brodick and Claonaig to Lochranza. For most, the Ardrossan service is the more convenient.

THE TRAILS Castle Blue

Distance: 10km Time: 0.5-1.5hrs Technicality: 1/5 A relatively short route in the grounds of Brodick Castle.

Blue

Distance: 10km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 2/5 This blue route is better for exploring the island. Good

trails carry you into the hills, and a fast descent drops you back into Brodick.

this is a route most mountain bikers will appreciate.

Red

Distance: 35km Time: 2.5-5hrs Technicality: 4/5 The black covers a lot of distance and some stiff climbs. It’s tough and fairly long, but it does take in a set of nicely varied trails.

Distance: 18km Time: 1.5-3hrs Technicality: 3/5 There’s a fair bit of climbing, but it’s a small price to pay for the views and descents. Technical, hilly and lots of fun,

Black

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Scotland

Arran

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Balblair

England Scotland

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 1/3 Intermediate: 2/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Parking Nearest bike shop Carbisdale Castle Youth Hostel rents bikes, although there’s no shop, 0870 004 1109 MORE INFORMATION www.forestry.gov.uk The Trails  Blue: 3km  Black: 7.5/11.5km

Balblair About the centre

Balblair is all about technical XC riding. It’s a relatively out-of-the-way centre, where you’re taken out into the hills on natural-feeling trails.

How to get there

Take the A9 north from Inverness. After about 35 miles, turn left onto the A836, signed to Bonar Bridge. Follow this road through Bonar Bridge and the trails begin from a car park on the left about 1.5 miles outside of town. Grid Ref: NH 604930 Sat Nav: Bonar Bridge

THE TRAILS Blue

Distance: 3km Time: 0.5-1hr Technicality: 3/5 Balblair’s blue route packs in a fair bit of climbing and descending on a mix of forest road and singletrack. The trail surface is fairly rough – more so

than you might expect for a blue – but it isn’t too difficult to ride.

Black

Distance: 7.5/11.5km Time: 1.25-2.5hrs Technicality: 4/5 Natural feeling, technical and great

fun, this fantastic black route features rock slabs, steep, loose descents and the odd bit of boardwalk to keep the momentum and flow going nicely. It’s not easy though – it’s one that’s aimed at truly experienced riders.

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Carron Valley

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 1/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 2/3 Facilities Parking, toilets MORE INFORMATION www.carronvalley.org.uk www.forestry.gov.uk/mtbscotland The Trails  Red Trail: 10.5km

Carron Valley About the centre

Carron Valley sits between Edinburgh and Glasgow. It’s a long-established mountain biking spot with some great trails, and the addition of the red route in 2006 has proved to be popular.

How to get there

From Stirling, turn off the M80 at Junction 9 onto the A872. Follow this south towards Denny, fork right and stay on the A872 as you enter the town. After half a mile, turn right onto the B818, following signs for Fintry. After five miles, go through Carron Bridge. The car park is on your left, 1.5 miles along the road. Grid Ref: NS 722838 Sat Nav: FK6 5JL

THE TRAILS Red Trail

Distance: 10.5km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 3/5 Carron Valley’s red trail is made up of four sections of singletrack. First is Pipedream, a gentle

singletrack climb with off-camber switchbacks and the odd downhill. Eas Dubh takes you over the rocky Kelpies Staircase and down a series of wide switchbacks. The

Cannonball Run is a high-speed section of singletrack, and the last part, The Runway, is a fast run over jumps that encourages you to pick up speed and take off. Great fun.

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Scotland

England

Scotland

Dalbeattie, 7stanes

At a Glance Who is it good for? Beginners: 2/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Bike wash, pay & display parking Nearest bike shop G and G Cycle Centre, Dumfries, 01387 259483 MORE INFORMATION www.7stanes.gov.uk The Trails  Ironhash Trail: 11.5km  Moyle Hill Trail: 14km  Hardrock Trail (with optional black sections): 27km

Dalbeattie, 7stanes About the centre

Dalbeattie has a good range of trails, including one of the most famous features at any trail centre – The Slab, a 14m high lump of granite that forms one of the Hardrock Trail’s descents.

How to get there

From Dumfries, head south-west on the A711 for 13 miles. Once you’ve arrived in Dalbeattie, follow the A710. The car park is on your left a short way south of the town. Grid Ref: NX 836590 Sat Nav: DG5 4QU

THE TRAILS Ironhash Trail

Distance: 11.5km Time: 1.5-2hrs Technicality: 2/5 The Ironhash Trail is just over 11km and is a fairly flat ride that’s good for inexperienced riders. The trail mostly follows forest road, and there are two short singletrack sections.

Moyle Hill Trail

Distance: 14km Time: 1.5-3hrs Technicality: 2/5 The Moyle Hill Trail is a good choice if you want to cover a reasonable distance and take in some views without any real technical difficulty. If you want singletrack, pick another route.

Hardrock Trail

Distance: 27km Time: 2-4hrs Technicality: 3/5 The Hardrock Trail is characterised by narrow singletrack and lumps of granite across the trail, so you have to watch your lines. The trail winds along rough singletrack to the famous Slab. It’s a great ride for the technically adept.

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Drumlanrig MBK A5 Advert:Layout 1 28/03/2011 13:50 Page 1

HISTORY

GARDENS

CYCLING

WALKING

M O U N TA I N B I K I N G

EVENTS

WILDLIFE

MOUNTAIN

BIKING &

CYCLING. . .

Drumlanrig is the family friendly MTB destination you have been looking for • Cycle routes for all the family, young and old, to enjoy the spectacular Nithsdale Valley

• Historic Castle & Gardens

• Bring your family for a day out while you enjoy some guilt free mountain biking

• Country Estate – Adventure Playground, Walking, Landrover Tours & Ranger Activities

• Technical singletrack MTB trails to match any in the UK

• Shopping

• Follow in the tracks of local inventor Kirkpatrick Mcmillian, who designed and rode the first pedal bicycle

• Galloway Country Fair 20th – 21st August

• The largest variety of hire bikes in the South of Scotland from £5

• Scottish Cycle Museum

• Places to Eat • Fantastic Events programme

Opening Times 201 1 CASTLE

• Showers, changing rooms, and bike wash • Riks Bike Shed, maintenance, repair, guiding and essential bike bits

In addition, discover:

1st April – 31st August, daily 11am – 4pm GARDENS & COUNTRY ESTATE

1st April - 30 September, daily 10am – 5pm

Become a SEASON TICKET HOLDER from just £15 and enjoy entry to the spectacular Country Estate all year round!

Tel: 01848 331555 Email: enquiries@drumlanrig.com

www.drumlanrig.com

Scotland

Drumlanrig

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 3/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Bike hire, bike shop, bike wash, café and visitor centre, parking, place of interest, toilets, showers, uplift service Nearest bike shop Rik’s Bike Shed (on site), 01848 330080 MORE INFORMATION www.drumlanrig.com The Trails  The Riverside: 3km  Alton Rigg: 13km  The Three Lochs: 5km  The Castle Round: 8.5km  Copy Cat: 9km  The Old School: 15.5km  Magic 8: 8km (extensions to red)

Drumlanrig About the centre

There are trails here for everybody, from tarmac loops and easy off-road tracks to singletrack and rooty horror shows.

How to get there

From Dumfries, take the A76 north towards Kilmarnock for 17 miles. After passing through Thornhill, Drumlanrig Castle is signposted. Turn left onto minor roads and follow the signs. Grid Ref: NX 852993 Sat Nav: DG3 4AQ

Trail highlights Copy Cat

Distance: 9km Time: 0.5-1hr Technicality: 2/5 Copy Cat shadows Drumlanrig’s red route – if you enjoy Copy Cat’s narrow, twisting trails, the route lets you nip off the blue and onto the red for a bit to ride a few more tight corners.

The Old School

Distance: 15.5km Time: 1.5-2.5hrs Technicality: 3/5 Natural-feeling dirt trails tuck and turn between the trees, giving The Old School a lovely flowing feel. Pick your lines carefully to keep momentum – there really are roots everywhere!

Magic 8

Distance: 8km (extensions to red) Time: 0.5hrs Technicality: 4/5 Magic 8 comprises two black-rated extensions to the red route. Both have steep climbs and descents and some interesting features to ride, and are hard work but fun.

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Fire Tower Trail

Scotland England

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 0/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 2/3 Facilities Parking Nearest bike shop Crinan Cycles, Lochgilphead, 01546 603511 MORE INFORMATION www.forestry.gov.uk/mtbscotland The Trails  Fire Tower Trail: 19km

Fire Tower Trail, Lochgilphead About the centre

The Fire Tower Trail near Lochgilphead is much quieter than most trail centres. There’s not enough riding here to fill a weekend, but Fort William is only a two- or three-hour drive away. The trail is best suited to intermediate riders.

How to get there

Take the A82 north from Glasgow, turning onto the A83 at Tarbet, following signs for Campbeltown. Just under 50 miles later, go through Lochgilphead and turn north onto the A816. Bear right when the road forks and immediately turn right onto a forest road. The car park is on your right, after the buildings. Grid Ref: NR 851909 Sat Nav: PA31 8SJ

THE TRAIL Fire Tower Trail

Distance: 19km Time: 1.5-2.5hrs Technicality: 3/5 After a fireroad climb and singletrack descent, the trail begins a long drag uphill.

Pick your way along the rock outcrop of the optional Fire Tower Loop and blaze down to the steep but rollable Quarry Drop. Murder Hill is an intense singletrack climb,

followed by a fast descent around rough berms and jumps, and then the Water Splash. A lengthy but easy stretch of North Shore finishes off the trail.

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Fort William

Scotland England

At A GlAnce who is it good for? Beginners: 1/3 Intermediate: 2/3 Advanced: 3/3 facilities Bike hire, café, parking, toilets, uplift service, gondola uplift for downhill course Nearest bike shop Off Beat Bikes, Fort William, 01397 704008 Nevis Cycles, Inverlochy, 01397 705555 More iNforMatioN http://bike.nevisrange.co.uk www.ridefortwilliam.co.uk www.fortwilliamworldcup.co.uk the trails  Cour Loop: 19km  10 Under the Ben: 16.5km  World Champs: 8.5km  Nevis Red XC: 5.5km  Downhill / 4X: 2.7km/c.500m

Fort William About the centre

Fort William has achieved international fame. The Mountain Bike World Cup has been held there since 2001, and the race courses are open to the public.

How to get there

Head north from Fort William on the A82 towards Inverness. The Nevis Range is clearly signposted on your right after three miles. Grid Ref: NN 171774 Sat Nav: PH33 6SW

THE TRAILS Cour Loop

Distance: 19km Time: 1.5-3hrs Technicality: 2/5 The Cour Loop is a scenic route starting from the Nevis Range centre and following wide, well surfaced tracks through the Leanachan forest.

10 Under the Ben

Distance: 16.5km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 4/5 The 10 Under the Ben trail starts on singletrack, with a

few turns and some steep drops. The first half is fine for less advanced riders, but even international racers have been caught out by the tricky Nessie section!

Nevis Red

Distance: 5.5km Time: 0.5-1hr Technicality: 4/5 The Nevis Red boasts about 550m of vertical descent on a variety of technical trail surfaces. It’s open from May and will

close again for winter – date tbc.

World Champs

Distance: 8.5km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 3/5 The World Champs trail follows the usual one climb and one descent format found at many trail centres. The difference is that, here, both are longer and steeper than usual. Hard to ride fast and smoothly, it feels awesome when you hit a section well.

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Scotland

Fort William

THE TRAILS Downhill and 4X

Distance: 2.7km / c.500m Time: 5 mins (pros) / N/A Technicality: 5/5 / 4/5 It would be hard to miss the downhill and 4X courses – they finish in the centre of the car park. The downhill is Fort William’s crowning glory. It’s long, rough and hard, with easy gondola access (seasonal opening). The 4X has recently been extended to a good length and contains some sizeable jumps.

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Scotland

England

Scotland

Glentress, 7stanes

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 3/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Bike hire, bike shop, café, pay & display parking, showers, toilets Nearest bike shop The Hub in the Forest (on site), 01721 721736 MORE INFORMATION www.7stanes.gov.uk www.thehubintheforest.co.uk The Trails  Green: 4.5km  Blue: 16km  Red: 19km  Black: 30km  Freeride Park: N/A

Glentress, 7stanes About the centre

Glentress is for real mountain bikers. There are no forest roads and no long, easy rides – each trail is about enjoying the technical interest.

How to get there

From Edinburgh, get on the ring road and head south on the A703 or A701 towards Peebles. After the two roads merge and separate, take the A703 to Peebles, then turn east on the A72. The trails are on the left two miles outside town. Grid Ref: NT 284397 Sat Nav: EH45 8NB

THE TRAILS Green

Distance: 4.5km Time: 0.5-1hr Technicality: 2/5 Smooth singletrack that drops, climbs and weaves through the trees.

Blue

Distance: 16km Time: 1-2.5hrs Technicality: 3/5 The blue route is characterised by flowing singletrack, sweeping corners and jumps that encourage you to wind up the speed.

Red

Distance: 19km Time: 1.5-3hrs Technicality: 4/5 Home of the Spooky Woods descent, this is one of the most enjoyable trails around. It’s not tight or twisty, it’s all about speed.

Black

Distance: 30km Time: 2.5-5hrs Technicality: 4/5 A 30km route with 24km of superb, hard singletrack. There are rocky

climbs, switchback descents and some lovely swooping dirt sections.

Freeride Park

Distance: N/A Time: N/A Technicality: 4/5 Here you’ll find multiple jump lines, wallrides and North Shore areas. There are easier lines if you want to play.

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Golspie

England Scotland

At a Glance Who is it good for? Beginners: 1/3 Intermediate: 2/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Pay & display parking, shop, toilets MORE INFORMATION www.highlandwildcat.com The Trails  Blue Trail: 6.5km  Red Trail: 7.5km  Black Trail: 13.6km

Golspie About the centre

Golspie offers a pleasant blue route, an exhilarating red and one of the hardest black routes in the country.

How to get there

From Inverness, head north on the A9 for 50 miles to Golspie. Either park in the town centre or turn left, pass the town centre car park and go over the roundabout and under the bridge to a higher car park. Grid Ref: NC 828005 Sat Nav: Golspie

THE TRAILS Blue Trail

Distance: 6.5km Time: 0.5-1.5hrs Technicality: 2/5 Golspie’s blue route is a fun ride, with snaking singletrack, views out towards the sea and some forest road bashing.

Red Trail

Distance: 7.5km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 3/5 The trail kicks off with a climb. Once you’re up, a quick forest road traverse leads to the descent, which is a fast, flowing affair guaranteed to put a grin on your face.

Black Trail

Distance: 13.6km Time: 1.5-3hrs Technicality: 5/5 Let’s see… The longest singletrack descent in Scotland, awesome technical climbing, plus jumps, drops, rocky outcrops… Decided yet? Yeah, we thought so!

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Scotland

England

Scotland

Innerleithen, 7stanes

At a Glance how to get there Beginners: 0/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Pay & display parking, uplift service Nearest bike shop Alpine Bikes, Innerleithen, 01896 830880 MORE INFORMATION www.7stanes.gov.uk www.upliftscotland.com The Trails  Traquair XC: 18km  Downhill: N/A

Innerleithen, 7stanes About the centre

Innerleithen is a venue for experienced riders. It’s also a popular downhilling centre, with a regular uplift service.

How to get there

From Edinburgh, get onto the ring road and head south on the A703 or A701, following signs for Peebles. After the roads merge and separate, take the A703 towards Peebles. Once there, turn east on the A72, pass Glentress and continue along the main road to Innerleithen. Once in the village, turn right, following signs to Traquair. The car park is on your left at the T-junction. Grid Ref: NT 336357 Sat Nav: EH44 6PD

THE TRAILS Traquair XC

Distance: 18km Time: 1.5-4hrs Technicality: 4/5 The Traquair XC rewards confidence. Beginning with a long climb, it winds up through the woods and onto rocky moorland. After the first singletrack descent,

there’s the technical Plora Craig, which has singletrack that snakes rapidly through the trees and black-graded rock gardens. Last but not least is Caddon Bank – a fast and steep section with berms, big drops and rows of doubles.

Downhill

Distance: N/A Time: N/A Technicality: 5/5 The main downhill tracks are the big, hard and fast Matador, the tight, natural Gold and Cresta Runs, and Make or Brake, a high speed run over jumps and berms.

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Scotland Kirroughtree, England 7stanes

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 2/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Bike hire, bike shop, bike wash, café, pay & display parking, toilets, visitor centre Nearest bike shop The Break Pad (on site), 01671 401303 MORE INFORMATION www.7stanes.gov.uk The Trails  Bargaly Wood: 6km  Larg Hill: 10km  Doon Hill Extension: 4km  The Twister: 17km  Black Craigs: 31km (inc red route)

Kirroughtree, 7stanes About the centre

Set in Galloway Forest, Kirroughtree has carefully crafted, natural-feeling singletrack and awesome natural trail features.

How to get there

From Dumfries, take the A75 west towards Newton Stewart. Turn right onto a minor road about four miles short of Newton Stewart. Take the first left and follow the lane to the centre. Grid Ref: NX 452644 Sat Nav: DG8 7BE

THE TRAILS Bargaly Wood

Distance: 6km Time: 0.5-1hr Technicality: 1/5 A short, family route with a section of easy singletrack.

Larg Hill

Distance: 10km Time: 1-2hrs

Doon Hill Extension

Distance: 4km Time: 0.5hr Effort: 2/5 Technicality: 2/5 The Larg Hill loop follows The Twister’s climb, but sticks to forest road when

the red moves onto singletrack, tracing a pleasant circuit before rejoining it. The extension adds singletrack and more forest road.

The Twister

Distance: 17km Time: 1-2hrs Effort: 3/5 Technicality: 3/5 Bordering on perfection, The Twister blends narrow singletrack trails with tight corners and delicate rocky sections into an effortlessly flowing whole.

Black Craigs

Distance: 31km (inc red route) Time: 2.5-4hrs Effort: 4/5 Technicality: 4/5 McMoab is a large outcrop of grippy granite, with arrows showing the best line across it, and is the dominating feature of Black Craigs. But it’s not the only thing that makes the trail worth riding. There are also technical features, steep slabs to climb and rocky drops to blast off or pick your way down.

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Scotland

Laggan Wolftrax

Scotland England

At A GlAnce who is it good for? Beginners: 2/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 3/3 facilities Bike hire, bike shop, bike wash, café, parking, showers, toilets, uplift service Nearest bike shop Basecamp (on site), 01528 544786 More iNforMatioN www.basecampmtb.com the trails  Green: 5km  Red: 15km  Black: 10km  Fun Park: 3.5km

Laggan Wolftrax About the centre

Laggan offers trails that cater for every whim and taste. Add a decent shop, good café and an uplift service and you’ve got a great trail centre.

How to get there

Laggan is on the A86, which runs between the A82 and the A9. From Perth, take the A9 north towards Inverness. Turn onto the A889 towards Dalwhinnie. Turn left onto the A86 at Drumgask. The centre is on your left after about a mile. Grid Ref: NN 594923 Sat Nav: PH20 1BU

THE TRAILS Green

Distance: 5km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 2/5 A wide, smooth and easy route that includes plenty of twists and turns.

Red

Distance: 15km Time: 1.5-3hrs Technicality: 3/5 There are two halves to Laggan’s red route – the ‘Upper’

and ‘Lower’ loops. You can ride them as a complete loop, individual trails or mixed up with the black route.

Black

Distance: 10km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 5/5 After a singletrack climb, the black reveals its true, jagged nature on the descent, as

rocky challenge after rocky challenge throws itself at you.

Fun Park

Distance: 3.5km Time: 0.5hr Technicality: 2/5 Laggan’s fun park is not technically difficult. There’s nothing that you can’t roll over, making it a trail that any rider can enjoy.

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Scotland

Laggan Wolftrax

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Laggan has a clever stacked loop system of trails that provides a good mix of technical challenges, epic singletrack descents and incredible views.â&#x20AC;? Russell Burton MBUK Photographer

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Learnie: Red Rock Trails

Scotland England

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 2/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 2/3 Facilities Parking MORE INFORMATION www.forestry.gov.uk The Trails  Home: 0.5km  Callachy Hill Climb: 1.5km  Callachy Downhill: 1.3km  Muirhead Climb: 1.1km  F ir Hill: 0.5km  Firth View: 2.2km  Fun Park: 1.1km  Learnie Hill: 3.4km

Learnie: Red Rock Trails About the centre

Learnie consists of individually named and graded sections of singletrack linked by forest roads, so you can create whatever sort of ride you fancy.

How to get there

From Inverness, head north on the A9 for just under eight miles to the roundabout at Tore. Then turn right onto the A832, signed to Cromarty. Follow the road through the village of Rosemarkie and the trails are on your right, about three miles beyond the village. Grid Ref: NH 736614 Sat Nav: Rosemarkie

TRAIL highlights Callachy Hill Climb

Distance: 1.5km Time: 10 mins Technicality: 2/5 A short and pleasant climb on some quite narrow singletrack.

Callachy Downhill

Distance: 1.3km Time: 10 mins Technicality: 2/5 A fast-as-you-dare trail that sweeps across the hillside.

Fir Hill

Distance: 0.5km Time: 5 mins Technicality: 2/5 The Learnie trail builders got it just right with this gem of a descent.

Fun Park

Distance: 1.1km Time: 5 mins Technicality: 2/5 Starting around long, wide berms, you can carry a lot of speed into the

fun park. It has tabletops and the odd ‘hump’ to jump.

Learnie Hill

Distance: 3.4km Time: 0.5-1hr Technicality: 5/5 Some very tricky rock gardens make Learnie Hill one of the most difficult black-graded trails in the country.

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Scotland

England

Scotland

Mabie, 7stanes

At a Glance Who is it good for? Beginners: 3/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Bike hire, bike shop, café, pay & display parking, toilets, youth hostel Nearest bike shop Rik’s Bike Shed (on site), 01387 270275 MORE INFORMATION www.7stanes.gov.uk The Trails  Big Views Loop: 8km  Woodhead Loop: 10km  The Phoenix Trail: 17km  Kona Dark Side: 2km  Skills Park: N/A

Mabie, 7stanes About the centre

Mabie offers a unique riding experience, from the green and blue routes – which offer fine ways of exploring the forest – to the Kona Dark Side, the longest and hardest North Shore trail in the UK. In early 2011, some trails were closed because of tree-felling work. This was due to be complete by the time of print, but do check before you travel.

How to get there

From Dumfries, take the A710 south towards Dalbeattie. The trails are on your right after about four miles. Grid Ref: NX 950707 Sat Nav: DG2 8HB

THE TRAILS Big Views Loop

Distance: 8km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 2/5 There are a couple of good viewpoints on this loop, and the rest of it is buried in woodland. There are some short climbs and descents, but nothing tricky.

Woodhead Loop

Distance: 10km Time: 1-2.5hrs Technicality: 2/5 Using forest roads to delve deeper into the woods, this is a longer version of the Big Views Loop, with more climbing and singletrack.

The Phoenix Trail

Distance: 17km Time: 2-3hrs Technicality: 3/5 The Phoenix Trail is an engaging ride – it hits singletrack early and winds up smooth tracks and boardwalk before shifting to natural, unsurfaced trails.

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Mabie, 7stanes

Scotland

“Mabie often gets overlooked because of its big name neighbours (Glentress and Innerleithen) but it’s well worth a look. It’s a great place for beginners too, thanks to its skills area, and The Shed is one of the best trail cafés in Britain.” Ric McLaughlin MBUK Staff Writer

THE TRAILS Kona Dark Side

Distance: 2km Time: 1-3hrs Technicality: 5/5 Never far off the ground and with only one jump/gap, the Kona Dark Side doesn’t sound

tricky. But when you’ve ridden right off the tyre-width skinnies, dropped your back wheel off the tight corners and stalled in the rock gardens, you’ll change your mind!

Skills Park

Distance: N/A Time: N/A Technicality: Varies As well as the skills area with different, graded lines, Mabie has a Mini-X course and big dirt jumps.

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Scotland

Moray England Scotland Monster Trails

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 2/3 Intermediate: 2/3 Advanced: 2/3 Facilities Parking, facilities in Fochabers MORE INFORMATION www.forestry.gov.uk/mtbscotland www.moraymountainbikeclub.co.uk nearest bike shop Rafford Cycles, Forres 01309 672811 The Trails  Soup Dragon: 4km  Gordzilla: 5km  The Haggis: 6km  Fochabers Ring: 8km  Fochabers Freeride: 0.75km  Ben Aigan Hammer: 8km  Pink Bunny Trail: 1km  Mast Blast: 1km  Gully Monster: 2km

Moray Monster Trails About the centre

Moray consists of three centres (car parks), each with its own series of trails, which can be mixed up and linked to create a ride.

How to get there

From Inverness, take the A96 south towards Aberdeen and head to Fochabers, south of Elgin. For Whiteash (Fochabers Ring and Fochabers Freeride trails), turn left onto the A98 just after Fochabers – the car park is on your right. For Ordiequish (Soup Dragon, Gordzilla, Gully Monster and Haggis), turn right in the centre of Fochabers onto Ordiequish Road – the car park is on your left after a mile. For Ben Aigan (Hammer, Pink Bunny and Mast Blast), take the A96 out of Fochabers and turn right onto the A95. After a sharp left-hand corner at a crossroads, the car park is up a small forest road on your right. Whiteash Grid Ref: NJ 358586 Ordiequish Grid Ref: NJ 344577 Ben Aigan Grid Ref: NJ 334493 Sat Nav: Fochabers

trail highlights There are too many Monster Trails to list here, so here’s our pick of the best!

The Haggis (Ordiequish)

Distance: 6km Time: 0.5-1hr Technicality: 2/5 A fun loop with the best flow of Moray’s blue routes.

Ben Aigan Hammer (Ben Aigan)

Distance: 8km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 2/5 A singletrack lap around the summit of Ben Aigan that undulates nicely all the way round.

Gully Monster (Ordiequish)

Distance: 2km Time: 0.25hr Technicality: 3/5 The Gully Monster dives down towards the river, clinging to the side of a steep slope as the valley bottom drops away beneath it!

For more info on this trail and many more, check out Mountain Biking Trail Centres: The Guide by Tom Fenton

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England Newcastleton, Scotland 7stanes

At a Glance Who is it good for? Beginners: 2/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 1/3 Facilities Parking, toilets MORE INFORMATION www.7stanes.gov.uk The Trails  Caddrouns: 7km  Linns: 8km  Red: 16km  Skills Area: 0.5km  North Shore: N/A

Newcastleton, 7stanes About the centre

Newcastleton is the stane to head for if you’re after easy singletrack riding. None of the trails are technically difficult. This is a perfect centre for those looking for a simple, fun day out.

How to get there

From Carlisle, follow the A7 north towards Hawick. After about 13 miles (just before Canonbie), turn right onto the B6357 to Newcastleton village. Just before the village, turn right, crossing a bridge onto a minor road and follow this up the hill. The car park is on your right at the top. Grid Ref: NY 502874 Sat Nav: TD9 0TD

THE TRAILS Caddrouns

Distance: 7km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 2/5 The Caddrouns loop uses forest road to gain height, then winds back down the hill on wide, smooth singletrack.

Linns

Distance: 8km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 1/5 The Linns is the longer of the two

blue routes. It’s a nice, mellow ride.

Red

Distance: 16km Time: 1.5-3hrs Technicality: 3/5 Kicking off with a snaking descent between trees, Newcastleton’s red route is not very technical, but that’s not to say it isn’t fun. It’s pleasant rather than adrenaline-fuelled.

Other riding…

Newcastleton has a green-graded skills area and a reasonably extensive set of North Shore trails.

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Scotland

Wales

England

Wales

Afan Argoed

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 1/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Bike hire, bike shop, bike wash, café, campsite, pay & display parking, showers, toilets, visitor centre (both trail centres) Nearest bike shop Skyline Cycles, Glyncorrwg, 01639 850011 Skyline Cycles, Afan Visitor Centre, 01639 851100 MORE INFORMATION www.mbwales.com Afan Forest Park Visitor Centre, 01639 850564 Glyncorrwg Mountain Bike Centre, 01639 851900 The Trails  The Wall: 24km  White’s Level: 15km  Skyline: 46km

Afan Argoed About the centre

Afan Argoed consists of two centres. The older of the two, by the Afan visitor centre, contains The Wall trail. The second, at Glyncorrwg, is home to White’s Level and Skyline.

How to get there

Turn off the M4 at Junction 40 and head north. Turn left at the mini-roundabout onto the A4107, following signs to Afan Forest Park. The Afan car park is on your right after about five miles. For Glyncorrwg, continue three miles to Cymmer and turn left, following signs for Glyncorrwg. The centre is on your left, just before the village. Afan Grid Ref: SS 821951 Sat Nav: SA13 3HG

THE TRAILS The Wall

Distance: 24km Time: 1-2.5hrs Technicality: 3/5 The first half of The Wall is dominated by forest roads. The second, better half consists almost entirely of some superb singletrack.

White’s Level

Distance: 15km Time: 2-3hrs Technicality: 3/5 The first bit is climbing but there’s enough technical interest. There’s an optional black downhill before a flowing, twisting run with singletrack and jumps. The final descent is thrilling.

Skyline

Distance: 46km Time: 4-7hrs Technicality: 3/5 Skyline is a long, hard ride, with awesome sections of singletrack that totally compensate for the effort you put in. Sadly, the trail is due to close for good in autumn of this year.

Glyncorrwg Grid Ref: SS 872984 Sat Nav: SA13 3EA

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Wales

England

Wales

Brechfa

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 3/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Parking, café (weekends) MORE INFORMATION www.mbwales.com www.bikebrechfa.co.uk The Trails  Derwen Trail: 9km  Derwen Trail Extension: 5km  Gorlech Trail: 22km  Raven Trail: 18km

Brechfa About the centre

Brechfa is a huge forest to the west of the Brecon Beacons, with great natural riding and manmade trails designed by downhill rider Rowan Sorrell.

How to get there

From Carmarthen, head east on the A40 towards Llandeilo. Turn left onto the B4310 at Nantgaredig and follow it up through Brechfa. Parking for the green, blue and black trails is on your left between Brechfa and Nant-y-ffin. For the Gorlech, continue along the B4310 to Abergorlech. The car park is on your left in the middle of the village. Grid Ref: SN 545315 Sat Nav: Brechfa

THE TRAILS Derwen Trail

Distance: 9km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 2/5 An ideal trail for beginners. The Derwen sweeps through the forest on well surfaced, wide singletrack.

Derwen Trail Extension

Distance: 5km Time: 0.75-1hr Technicality: 2/5 An extension of the green, with an extra climb and descent.

Gorlech Trail

Distance: 22km Time: 1.5-3hrs Technicality: 3/5 There’s a fair bit of forest road climbing, but on the way back down the trail is a total rollercoaster.

Raven Trail

Distance: 18km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 4/5 The Raven mixes the big-bermed, jumpy style of riding on the other routes with predominantly natural singletrack.

Abergorlech Grid Ref: SN 585340

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Cli-machx

England Wales

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 0/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 2/3 Facilities Parking Nearest bike shop The Holey Trail, Machynlleth, 01654 700411 MORE INFORMATION www.dyfimountainbiking.org.uk www.mbwales.com The Trails  Cli-machx: 15km

Cli-machx, near Machynlleth About the centre

The cunningly-named Cli-machx trail is a purpose-built singletrack trail just outside Machynlleth that builds to a dramatic finale. Machynlleth is a good base for visiting mountain bikers, with shops, eateries and riding. There are also three waymarked Mach routes, plus natural riding and an array of events held in the area throughout the year.

How to get there

THE TRAILS Cli-machx

Distance: 15km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 4/5 It’s the final downhill of the Cli-machx trail that people talk about. It’s one of the longest singletrack descents in the UK.

Deep in the forest, it’s dark, rocky and highly technical at the top and curves around a series of large berms at the bottom. It’s pretty hard to ride fast and smoothly – but it feels great when you

do. The remainder of the trail features good singletrack. It’s fairly swoopy, with the odd tricky section, and contains a couple of rocky, technical climbs – nice to see at a trail centre.

Head north from Machynlleth on the A487 towards Dolgellau and turn right to Ceinws (following the signs). Cross the river and follow signs to the left and uphill. Grid Ref: SH 759063 Sat Nav: Machynlleth

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Coed Llandegla

Wales England

At a Glance Who is it good for? Beginners: 3/3 Intermediate: 2/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Bike hire, bike shop, bike wash, café, pay & display parking, toilets Nearest bike shop One Planet, 01978 751656 www.oneplanetadventure.com MORE INFORMATION Coed Llandegla, 01978 751656 www.coedllandegla.com www.mbwales.com The Trails  Green: 5km  Blue: 12km  Red: 18km  Black: 21km

Coed Llandegla About the centre

Coed Llandegla gives a new meaning to ‘something for everyone’, with green and blue routes for beginners, a reasonable red route for intermediate riders and its infamous black route. There’s a good bike shop and a fantastic café.

How to get there

From Wrexham, take the A525 signed towards Ruthin. Coed Llandegla is up a minor road on your left about eight miles from Wrexham. Grid Ref: SJ 227520 Sat Nav: LL11 3AA

THE TRAILS Green

Distance: 5km Time: 0.5-1hr Technicality: 1/5 The route climbs wide tracks up to the reservoir. Up top, there are picnic benches and good views, then a fun, swoopy descent.

Blue

Distance: 12 km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 2/5 After a seemingly never-ending climb, the blue swings

downhill. The surface is good, the trails are wide and the corners are fun.

Red

Distance: 18km Time: 1.5-3hrs Technicality: 3/5 Beginning with a long climb, the route ‘proper’ kicks off with a promising descent around berms and over jumps. From there, rough singletrack cuts up and down through the forest.

Black

Distance: 21km Time: 1.5-3hrs Technicality: 3/5 With a smooth, hard surface, berms around every corner and jumps on every straight, this is the route people come to ride at Llandegla!

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Wales

Coed Trallwm

At a Glance WHO IS IT GOOD FOR? Beginners: 1/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 2/3 Facilities Bike hire, bike wash, café, parking, shop, showers, toilets (ring ahead for bike hire) Nearest bike shop The visitor centre sells basic spares MORE INFORMATION www.coedtrallwm.co.uk Visitor Centre, 01591 610546 The Trails  Blue: 4km  Red: 5km  Black: 6km

Coed Trallwm About the centre

Coed Trallwm is a small biking centre offering three good, if short, singletrack trails, which all share the same start point. It also boasts a friendly log-cabin café, several self-catering cottages and a range of facilities.

How to get there

From Llandovery, take the A40 west and turn right onto the A483, towards Builth Wells. Stay on the A483 for 15 miles to Beulah and turn left onto a minor road, towards Abergwesyn. The centre is four miles along here. Grid Ref: SN 882543 Sat Nav: LD5 4TS

THE TRAILS Blue

Distance: 4km Time: 0.5-1hr Technicality: 3/5 The blue route goes up a long forest road before heading into the woods. The trail can get muddy in winter, but is good, fast fun.

Red

Distance: 5km Time: 0.75-1.5hrs Technicality: 2/5 The red trail heads away from the centre on a big forest road climb. Then singletrack leads into a twistier section of trail with a boardwalk area and river crossing.

Black

Distance: 6km Time: 0.5-1hr Technicality: 3/5 The black follows the blue, but misses out the final descent, continuing up a big forest track climb. The trail follows the edge of the wood to the route’s high point, from which there’s a great view and a wilderness feel.

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Wales

England

Wales

Coed y Brenin

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 2/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Bike hire, bike shop, café, pay & display parking, shop, showers, toilets, visitor centre Nearest bike shop Beics Brenin (on site), 01341 440728 MORE INFORMATION Coed-y-Brenin Visitor Centre, 0845 604 0845 www.mbwales.com The Trails  Yr Afon’ Trail: 7/11km  Temtiwr Trail: 9km  Dragon’s Back Trail: 31km  MBR Trail: 18.4km  The Tawr Trail: 20km  The Beast of Coed-y-Brenin: 38km

Coed-y-Brenin About the centre

Coed-y-Brenin was the first dedicated trail centre. Now it’s the largest in Britain, with six trails – five graded red or above.

How to get there

From Dolgellau, head north on the A470, towards Betws-y-Coed and Porthmadog. Go straight ahead at the roundabout and the centre is signposted on your right after about five miles. Grid ref: SH 720270 Sat Nav: LL40 2HY

THE TRAILS Yr Afon’ Trail

Distance: 7/11km Time: 1-3hrs Technical: 1/5 A nice family trail that passes by some abandoned goldmines and has spots to watch the river from.

Temtiwr Trail

Distance: 9km Time: 0.5-1hr Technicality: 2/5 The Temtiwr Trail is a quick-hit Coed-y-Brenin ‘teaser’ that gives you a taste of the

different routes. It might be short, but it’s pretty technical, and it has enough variety to provide entertaining riding.

Dragon’s Back

Distance: 31km Time: 3-5hrs Technicality: 4/5 At 31km, this is one large dragon, so make sure you’re feeling fit if you’re planning to ride it! Lots of singletrack, lots of distance, lots of fun! The best thing about the

Dragon’s Back is that it throws you right into the heart of the action as soon as you leave the car park. Even fireroad is enjoyable on this trail!

MBR Trail

Distance: 18.4km Time: 1.5-3hrs Technicality: 3/5 The MBR is a staple of Coed-y-Brenin. It’s fairly rocky, with loose climbs and jagged, technical descents. It’s a solid, technical XC route.

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Wales

THE TRAILS The Tawr Trail

Distance: 20km Time: 1.5-3hrs Technicality: 3/5 The trail formerly known as the Red Bull has aged well. The triple-whammy of Snap, Crackle and Pop is still there, but it has been joined by some faster and more flowing sections.

The Beast

Distance: 38km Time: 3-6hrs Technicality: 4/5 Coed-y-Brenin combines the MBR and Dragon’s Back trails to create The Beast. It covers a fair distance and packs in a lot of singletrack. Not easy, but it’s well worth riding.

“Coed-y-Brenin is the original trail centre and features some truly epic rides way out in the hills around Snowdonia. It has a great combination of natural trails and armoured manmade sections, which test riders and can withstand heavy traffic.” Doddy MBUK Features Editor

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Wales

Cwmcarn

England Wales

At A GlAnce Who is it good for? Beginners: 1/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 3/3 facilities Bike wash, café, campsite, parking, toilets, uplift service, visitor centre Nearest bike shop PS Cycles, Abercarn, 01495 246555 More iNforMatioN www.mbwales.com www.cwmdown.co.uk Cwmcarn Visitor centre, 01495 272001 the trails  Twrch Trail: 14km  Y Mynydd Mojo Downhill: 1.7/1.9km  Freeride: 500m

Cwmcarn About the centre

Cwmcarn is easily accessible, yet never seems to get too crowded. There’s an uplift service – see www.cwmdown.co.uk for details .

How to get there

From Junction 28 of the M4, head north on the A467, following signs for Cwmcarn Forest Drive. Go straight ahead until the fifth roundabout, then go right and right again. Cwmcarn Forest Drive is the second turning on your left. Grid Ref: ST 230936 Sat Nav: NP11 7FA

THE TRAILS Twrch Trail

Distance: 14km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 3/5 The Twrch Trail winds upwards alongside the river, over fiddly rocky sections and sharp climbs. Once up, you can bounce around tight corners and spiral through the woods before rattling out across an exposed traverse and then blasting down the final berms and jumps.

Y Mynydd Mojo Downhill

Distance: 1.7/1.9km Time: 5-10 mins Technicality: 4/5 The Mojo Downhill has two runs – an easier red and a more technical black. Both contain plenty of roots, turns and jumps. They are rideable by relative beginners, and scorchingly fast for better riders.

Freeride

Distance: 500m Time: N/A Technicality: 3/5 The Freeride is an optional section at the top of the cross-country loop. It has three ladder drops, a corkscrew into a tunnel, tabletops and a massive wallride.

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Cwmcarn

“Cwmcarn is an excellent venue for a day’s riding. The challenge, ﬂow and duration of the crosscountry loop is bang on, while the downhill track will keep you on your toes run after run.” Robin Weaver MBUK Technical Editor

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Gwydyr Forest

England Wales

At a Glance Who is it good for? Beginners: 1/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Bike hire, parking, toilets, full facilities in Betws-y-Coed Nearest bike shop Beics Betws, Betws-y-Coed, 01690 710766 MORE INFORMATION www.mbwales.com www.bikewales.co.uk The Trails  Marin Trail: 25km

Gwydyr Forest, near Betws-y-Coed About the centre

Another trail opened relatively early in trail centre history, the Marin Trail in Gwydyr Forest mixes singletrack descents with forest road climbs. Sitting in the woods above Betws-yCoed, it’s in a great location.

How to get there

Turn off the A5 through Betws-y-Coed beside the chip shop in the centre of town. Cross the bridge and follow the road around to the right. Go straight ahead for about 3.5 miles until you pass Gwydir Castle on your right, then turn left up a minor road. The car park is on your left. Sat Nav: LL26 0PN

THE TRAILS Marin Trail

Distance: 25km Time: 1-2.5hrs Technicality: 3/5 With a big ascent straight out of the car park and a fair amount of forest road climbing, the Marin Trail doesn’t

sound like a promising option. But throw in fast, twisting trails, pleasant open singletrack and a jagged rocky section and things start looking up. The clincher may be the

final few stretches of singletrack descent – they’re long, winding and fast, with some large humps and compressions that offer plenty of opportunities for taking to the air.

For more info on this trail and many more, check out Mountain Biking Trail Centres: The Guide by Tom Fenton

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Nant yr Arian

Wales England

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 1/3 Intermediate: 3/3 Advanced: 2/3 Facilities Bike wash, café, pay & display parking, shop, toilets, visitor centre Nearest bike shop Summit Cycles, Aberystwyth, 01970 626061 MORE INFORMATION www.mbwales.com Nant yr Arian Visitor Centre, 01970 890694 The Trails  Pendam Trail: 9km  Summit Trail: 16km  Syfydrin Trail: 35km

Nant yr Arian About the centre

Nant yr Arian’s trails are some of the finest in Wales. It’s known for its long singletrack runs, the big climb in the middle of the Summit Trail and the huge, wild Syfydrin loop.

How to get there

From Aberystwyth, take the A44 east towards Rhayader. The centre is on the left after 10 miles. Grid Ref: SN 718813 Sat Nav: SY23 3AD

THE TRAILS Pendam Trail

Distance: 9km Time: 1-2hrs Technicality: 3/5 Pendam is the one to ride when you’re short on time. You’re quickly up to speed and leaning through the corners. After a short section of forest road you’re into the trees, carving around berms before a stiff climb up for the final descent.

Summit Trail

Distance: 16km Time: 1.5-3hrs Technicality: 3/5 The Summit Trail is the backbone of Nant yr Arian. It packs in the most singletrack, creating a fast, flowing ride. The trail is never too technical, leaving you to concentrate on the corners and take them as fast or slow as you like.

Syfydrin Trail

Distance: 35km Time: 3-5hrs Technicality: 3/5 The Syfydrin branches off the Summit Trail to carve a big loop with a really ‘out there’ feel through the countryside. It’s a long ride with good singletrack and solid natural riding.

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planetFear.com Bike | Run | Climb | Ski

next to the Marin trail 10 minutes drive from Penmachno bikes i hire i kit i advice i Service Centre

Wales

Penmachno

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 2/3 Intermediate: 2/3 Advanced: 2/3 Facilities Bike hire, parking Nearest bike shop Beics Betws, Betws-y-Coed 01690 710766 MORE INFORMATION www.mbwales.com www.bikewales.co.uk The Trails  Loop 1: 20km  Loop 2: 10km

Penmachno About the centre

There are no unique trail features here, no jumps and no rock gardens – just good, solid singletrack. It’s for this reason that many riders rate Penmachno as their favourite trail centre.

How to get there

From Betws-y-Coed, head east on the A5. Once over the bridge and out of the town, take the second right onto the B4406, signed to Penmachno. Follow the road into and through Penmachno. The trail begins from a small car park on your right. Grid Ref: SH 786498 Sat Nav: Penmachno

THE TRAILS Loop 1

Distance: 20km Time: 1.5-3hrs Technicality: 3/5 This is an unashamedly XC trail – there are no bermed or jumpy sections, just tight, flowing singletrack. It’s never too technical, so you can focus on the

corners and compressions that weave through the woods. The final descent ensures you finish on a high!

Loop 2

Distance: 10 km Time: 1-1.5hrs Technicality: 3/5 Loop 2 is an extension of Loop 1.

Fairly flat in nature, there are no big climbs or descents, so you end up doing a lot of pedalling to keep your speed. The singletrack is good – not too technical but nice and flowing – and there’s the odd tricky section here and there.

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Bike Park

Penshurst (PORC)

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 2/3 Intermediate: 2/3 Advanced: 2/3 Facilities Café, parking, toilets MORE INFORMATION www.porc.uk.com Penhurst Off Road Cycling (PORC), 01892 870136 The Trails Downhill: 2/3 4X: 3/3 North Shore: 1/3 Jumping: 3/3 XC: 1/3

Penshurst (PORC) What’s there?

Penshurst Off Road Cycling (PORC) is set on the side of a hill. There’s a pretty decent set of dirt jumps at the top, a massive 4X course and, just below them, a limited XC loop off the back. Other than that, the hill is covered in berms, gaps and drops that can be linked in numerous ways to form various downhill runs. Some are tight, some are pretty big and some are fast. They are all rutted and worn, upping the technicality dramatically. They’re also all fairly short (this is Kent, after all) but good fun. It’s a good venue – there’s a lot there and there’s always something new being built.

How to get there

From Tonbridge, take the A26 towards Royal Tunbridge Wells. Turn right shortly after crossing the A21, onto the B2176, following signs to Penshurst. Follow the road into the village and turn left onto Fordcombe Road (B2188). Cross the river and turn right up Grove Road. PORC is up a small track on your left. Grid Ref: TQ 516427 Sat Nav: TN11 8DU

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The Track, Portreath

Bike Park

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 2/3 Intermediate: 2/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Resi ramp, foam pit, slopestyle obstacles, dirt jumps, bike hire, café, campsite Nearest bike shop The Track has a shop offering bike hire on site MORE INFORMATION www.the-track.co.uk The Trails Dirt jumping: 3/3 Freeride/slopestyle: 3/3

The Track, Portreath What’s there?

The Track is an ideal place to either push your aerial and freeride abilities or simply get to grips with them for the first time. The dirt jumps (and everything else) are professionally built and maintained. Along with the slopestyle obstacles, they offer up challenges for most riders. There’s a full-size BMX track too, and smaller dirt jump sections for beginners, moving right up to more full-on stuff for the more initiated. Bike hire is available on site so if you don’t already own a hardcore hardtail, you won’t have to trash your trail bike. The Track has extended opening times around bank and school holidays and the action doesn’t stop at nightfall thanks to the massive spotlights. Regular comps take place here too.

How to get there

Head south for Penzance on the A30 and come off at the B330 signposted for Redruth. Follow the signs for Portreath/Treasure Park, cross over the crossroads and it’s on your right. Grid Ref: SW 69047 44105 Sat Nav: TR16 4HW

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Bike parks

England

Bike Park

UK Bike Park, Blandford Forum

At a Glance who is it good for? Beginners: 2/3 Intermediate: 2/3 Advanced: 3/3 Facilities Parking, uplift service, bike hire MORE INFORMATION www.ukbikepark.com nearest bike shop Torico Bike Shop 01258 473770 The Trails Downhill: 3/3 4X: 3/3 North Shore: 2/3 Jumping: 2/3

UK Bike Park, Blandford Forum What’s there?

Go to Blandford if you’re in the south and want to ride downhill. There are several runs and roots, trees aplenty, drops of varying height and jumps. The runs vary in difficulty. There’s a regular uplift service and the hill is a popular race venue. At the top there’s a 4X course and a few short sections of North Shore. Lots of new trails opened in April 2011, some aimed for beginners and some of a more freeride nature. UK Bike Park is open Wednesday to Sunday, and it’s now free to ride there.

How to get there

From Blandford Forum (on the A354 between Salisbury and Dorchester), take the A350 north towards Shaftesbury and turn left onto the A357 towards Sturminster Newington. Continue to Shillingstone and turn left opposite the church, towards Okeford Fitzpaine. In the village, go left at the T-junction and left when the road forks. Parking is on the left at the top of the hill. The park is on the other side of the road. Grid Ref: ST 817093 Sat Nav: Shillingstone

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