The best MTB trails around Mendip

The Mendip Hills offer a diverse range of mountain biking experiences, from technical downhill tracks and challenging singletrack to open moorland bridleways and gentler cross-country paths. The region's limestone geology provides varied terrain, including deep gorges and rolling hills. You'll find trails suitable for various skill levels, including blue, red, and black graded options, as well as natural, ungraded routes.

Yes, the Mendip Hills offer several trails suitable for beginners. For a gentler experience, the Willow Walk – Ham Wall Nature Reserve loop from Glastonbury is an easy 15.9-mile (25.7 km) route with minimal elevation gain. Another easy option is the Cheddar Gorge – Cheddar Market Cross loop from Priddy Mineries, which is 11.7 miles (18.8 km) long. The Strawberry Line, an old railway line from Yatton to Cheddar, also provides a less strenuous, 10-mile cycling route.

For more challenging rides, the Mendip Hills feature technical downhill runs and cross-country trails with significant elevation. Rowberrow Warren is a key spot with official, signposted trails including blue-graded flow trails with optional red sections, and other systems like "Pump Track," "Lumps and Jumps," and "Yee Haw." Many natural, non-waymarked cross-country trails and downhill runs can also be found across the network of hills and singletrack.

Absolutely. The Mendip Hills offer options suitable for families. The Strawberry Line, a 10-mile route following an old railway line, is particularly good for less strenuous rides. For a komoot-curated easy route, consider the Tower of Glamis – Bike It Radstock loop from Chilcompton, which is 20 miles (32.2 km) and has a moderate elevation gain, making it manageable for active families.

The Mendip Hills are rich in natural beauty. You can ride through or near iconic features like Cheddar Gorge, England's largest gorge, with its dramatic limestone cliffs. Other notable areas include Crook Peak and Wavering Down, offering panoramic views, and Beacon Batch, the highest point in the Mendips. The Litton Reservoirs and the Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve also provide scenic points of interest.

Yes, several routes pass by historical landmarks. The Honeypot Lane Trailhead – Nunney Castle loop from Oakhill, a moderate 32.9-mile (52.9 km) path, traverses scenic countryside and passes by the historic Nunney Castle. You might also encounter other historical sites like Farleigh Hungerford Castle or Wells Cathedral on routes in the wider Mendip area.

Yes, the Mendip Hills offer numerous trails with rewarding viewpoints due to their elevated terrain. Routes around Crook Peak, Wavering Down, and Beacon Batch provide extensive views across the landscape, including glimpses of Glastonbury Tor and Brean Down. The Honeypot Lane Trailhead – Heaven's Gate Viewpoint loop from Nunney is a moderate 22.2-mile (35.8 km) route specifically designed to take you to a notable viewpoint.

Many mountain bike routes in the Mendip Hills are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Charterhouse SSSI loop from Priddy Mineries is a moderate 18.7-mile (30.1 km) circular route. Another option is the Gare Hill Summit loop from Long Knoll, a moderate 10.8-mile (17.4 km) ride.

The Mendip Hills are excellent for mountain biking from spring onwards. While the limestone-based terrain can be challenging and muddy during wet winter months, conditions significantly improve in spring, offering drier and more enjoyable rides. Summer and early autumn also provide pleasant weather for exploring the trails.

Many public bridleways and trails in the Mendip Hills are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially around livestock. It's always advisable to check local signage or specific trail guidelines for any restrictions. When riding with your dog, ensure they are fit enough for the distance and terrain, and carry water for them.

The Mendip Hills offer specific facilities for mountain bikers. Rowberrow Warren is a key mountain biking spot featuring two official, signposted trails managed by Ride Mendips, including a blue-graded flow trail with optional red sections, and other technical sections. Additionally, the Cheddar Pump Track provides an asphalt-finished track free for use by bikes, skateboards, and scooters.

The mountain bike trails in Mendip are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Mountain bikers often praise the varied terrain, stunning landscapes, and the network of trails that cater to different ability levels, from technical sections to scenic bridleways.