MTB trails for all abilities — ride in the ancient Forest of Dean

A popular choice for riders of all ages and abilities from the Midlands, South-West and Welsh borderlands, the Forest of Dean is one of England’s best-known trail centres. The mountain biking action centres around the Cannop Cycle Centre, at the heart of the ancient woodland and royal hunting grounds, between the city of Gloucester and the Welsh border.

You’ll find plenty of facilities at the Cannop Cycle Centre, including Pedal A Bike Away, a brilliant bike shop, workshop, cafe and bike hire centre. There’s also toilets and a bike wash. You’ll find a second cafe at nearby Mallards Pike, which is on the family loop and makes for a great stop off!

In this Collection you’ll find Tours for all abilities: from easy traffic-free cycleways on the family trail to entry-level mountain bike trails on the blue-rated Verderers trail, progression trails on the red Freeminers trail and some even more challenging downhill tracks for experience mountain bikers, including Launchpad, Corkscrew, Sheep’s Skull and Ski Run.

That’s the beauty of the Forest of Dean; there really is something for everyone. There’s also a great skills park, with drop offs, table tops and a pump track to session on. Take care when riding between trails and areas, as some of the fire roads intersect trails: look out for oncoming riders before crossing.

The Forest of Dean promises a great day out year-round, as these purpose built trails drain well even through wet winters. If you’re looking for a more serious day’s riding with less pedalling, there’s also an uplift bus service, FlyUp Downhill. You’ll need to book in advance of your visit.

The best way to reach the Forest of Dean is by car. There’s extensive pay and display parking at the Cannop Cycle Centre and, if they’re full, nearby additional car parks can usually be linked up to the trail centre using the Family Cycle Trail.