The best MTB trails around Curry Mallet

There are over 20 mountain bike trails around Curry Mallet, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 7 easy routes and 16 moderate routes, ensuring options for both beginners and more experienced riders.

The terrain around Curry Mallet is quite diverse. You can expect rolling hills and woodlands in the Blackdown Hills to the west, offering challenging climbs and descents. To the north, the Somerset Levels provide flatter, more tranquil routes through wetlands. This varied landscape ensures a range of experiences, from technical trails to more relaxed rides.

Yes, there are several easier routes suitable for families. For instance, the Staple Hill Trail loop from Corfe is an easy 15.6 km (9.7 miles) route that takes approximately 1 hour 18 minutes to complete, offering a pleasant ride through the local landscape.

Many trails in the area, particularly those on bridleways and in woodlands, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially when passing through livestock areas or nature reserves. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.

While exploring the trails, you might encounter historical sites and natural features. For example, the Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort is a significant landmark. Other points of interest include St Peter's Church, Staple Fitzpaine, and the historic Dillington House.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 10 reviews. Mountain bikers often praise the varied terrain, the scenic woodlands of the Blackdown Hills, and the peaceful atmosphere of the Somerset Levels, which offer a diverse and rewarding riding experience.

Yes, for those seeking a longer ride, the Wellington Monument – Staple Hill Trail loop from Corfe is a moderate 41.4 km (25.7 miles) route with over 500 meters of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours 44 minutes. This route offers a more extensive exploration of the Blackdown Hills.

Parking is often available at common starting points for trails, particularly near popular areas within the Blackdown Hills or at designated car parks for nature reserves in the Somerset Levels. Specific parking information can usually be found on individual route pages on komoot, such as those starting from Taunton Racecourse or Bickenhall.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking in the Curry Mallet area, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be good, but trails might be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions, especially in woodland areas, and shorter daylight hours.

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Curry Mallet are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Staple Hill Trail – Thurlbear Wood Bridleway loop from Taunton Racecourse and the Whitford Hill Fireroad – Staple Hill Trail loop from Bickenhall.

While Curry Mallet itself is a rural village, larger nearby towns like Taunton offer better public transport links. From Taunton, you might be able to connect to areas closer to the Blackdown Hills or the Somerset Levels via local bus services. Planning your route in advance and checking bus schedules is advisable if relying on public transport.

You'll find various pubs and cafes in the villages and towns surrounding the trail areas, particularly in places like Taunton or within the Blackdown Hills. It's a good idea to check the specific location of your chosen trail and research nearby establishments for refreshment stops before you set out.