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Cotswold

Cowley

The best MTB trails around Cowley

4.6

(53)

491

riders

61

rides

Mountain biking around Cowley offers access to a diverse landscape, primarily characterized by the rolling hills and dense woodlands of the nearby Cotswolds. The terrain includes a mix of bridleways, singletrack, and forest trails, providing varied experiences for mountain bikers. This region features significant elevation changes, particularly in areas like Crickley Hill, making it suitable for those seeking both challenging climbs and rewarding descents. Natural features such as Ullen Wood and the expansive Cotswold Commons define many of the mountain…

Last updated: June 23, 2026

7

riders

#1.

Cotswold's Commons

64.3km

05:30

1,190m

1,190m

This difficult 39.9-mile mountain biking route through Cotswold's Commons offers challenging terrain and panoramic views.

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Hard

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

Moderate
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Popular around Cowley

The Cotswold Way — hike the iconic trail in one week

Hiking around Cowley

Road Cycling Routes around Cowley

Running Trails around Cowley

Cycling around Cowley

Gravel biking around Cowley

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The Cotswold Way — hike the iconic trail in one week

Hiking Collection by

Dan Hobson

Tips from the Community

AlexLawson5
December 4, 2025, Technical Downhill Trail – The Cotswolds National Landscape

This route goes up Greenway lane and down the Crippits

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Great curve downhill in beech woodland

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Beth
January 4, 2024, Painswick Village

Mary's Magnificat

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Alex
October 3, 2023, Elkstone Bridleway

A fun gravel bridleway running between Elkstone and Colesbourne. Take care in the winter, it becomes very wet!

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Alex
September 12, 2023, The Butchers Arms

A fine country pub in the beautifully quiet Sheepscombe village. Perfect for a mid ride refreshment. Pairs well with the Cherry Glade Campsite should you decide to end your ride here.

3

0

Alex
September 11, 2023, Workman's Wood

Fantastic stretch of double track running through a lush quiet woodland. Workman's Wood is one of six woods that makes up the Cotswolds Commons and Beechwoods National Nature Reserve (NNR). Its steep sided banks lined with beech trees and bubbling brooks make it an idyllic woodland to cycle through.

3

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Good fun, twisty and usually walker free.

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Flat Section Of Bridleway Across a Flat Field. If starting from Main Lane end, look for the Bridleway sign. Its not through the farm as komoot thinks.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available around Cowley?

There are over 60 mountain bike trails around Cowley, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews.

Are there any easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families in Cowley?

Yes, Cowley offers 13 easy mountain bike trails, perfect for beginners or families looking for a less strenuous ride. One example is the 417 Bike Park Uplift Drop-Off – Trail Junction at the Top loop from Crickley Hill and Barrow Wake, which is a shorter, easy route.

What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails near Cowley?

The terrain around Cowley is characterized by rolling hills and dense woodlands, primarily within the nearby Cotswolds. You'll find a mix of bridleways, singletrack, and forest trails. Expect significant elevation changes in areas like Crickley Hill, providing both challenging climbs and rewarding descents.

Are there any circular mountain bike routes around Cowley?

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Cowley are circular. For example, the moderate View of Cheltenham – Bridleway Through Ullen Wood loop from Badgeworth offers scenic views and winds through Ullen Wood. Another option is the Painswick Village – Buckholt Woods Singletrack loop from Cotswold Commons and Beechwoods.

What natural features or landmarks can I see along the mountain bike trails?

The trails around Cowley offer access to several natural features and landmarks. You can ride past Painswick Beacon, enjoy the views from Devil's Chimney, Leckhampton Hill, or explore the woodlands of Buckholt Lane. Crickley Hill is also a prominent natural monument in the area.

Are there any challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders?

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Cowley offers 4 difficult mountain bike trails. The Cotswold's Commons route is a prime example, traversing expansive commons and woodlands over 39 miles, offering a significant endurance test.

What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Cowley?

The mountain bike trails around Cowley are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Riders often praise the diverse landscape, the mix of bridleways and singletrack, and the rewarding views, especially in areas like Ullen Wood and overlooking Cheltenham.

Are there any mountain bike trails that offer scenic viewpoints?

Many trails provide excellent viewpoints. The View of Cheltenham – Bridleway Through Ullen Wood loop from Badgeworth, for instance, offers stunning vistas of Cheltenham. Additionally, areas like Painswick Beacon and Crickley Hill are known for their panoramic views of the surrounding Cotswold landscape.

Can I find long-distance mountain bike routes in the Cowley area?

Yes, for those looking for longer rides, Cowley has several options. The Cotswold's Commons trail is nearly 40 miles long, taking approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes to complete. Another substantial route is the Saul Junction – Frampton Mansell Bridleway loop from Cranham, which covers over 39 miles.

What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Cowley?

The rolling hills and woodlands of the Cotswolds make mountain biking enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with vibrant foliage or blooming wildflowers. Summer is also popular, though trails can be busier. During winter, some trails might be muddy, so checking local conditions is advisable.

Are there any specific trails that go through dense woodlands?

Yes, the region is known for its dense woodlands. The View of Cheltenham – Bridleway Through Ullen Wood loop from Badgeworth takes you directly through the natural beauty of Ullen Wood. Similarly, the Painswick Village – Buckholt Woods Singletrack loop from Cotswold Commons and Beechwoods explores the scenic Buckholt Woods.

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