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United Kingdom
England
Yorkshire And The Humber
North Yorkshire
Selby

Drax

The best MTB trails around Drax

3.0

(1)

11

riders

6

rides

Mountain biking around Drax offers routes through a predominantly flat landscape, characterized by river and canal paths. The terrain features gentle gradients, making it suitable for various skill levels. Routes often follow the River Ouse and the Selby Canal, providing open views and easy navigation. The area includes some woodland sections, contributing to varied scenery on the trails.

Best mountain bike trails around Drax

  • The most popular mountain bike trail is Cawood Bridge – Cawood Castle Gatehouse loop from Selby

Last updated: June 24, 2026

3

riders

#1.

Cawood Bridge – Cawood Castle Gatehouse loop from Selby

32.3km

01:45

40m

40m

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

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Easy

3.0

(1)

1

riders

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

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

Easy

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

Easy

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

Easy

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Popular around Drax

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Tips from the Community

RichD
September 28, 2025, Ryther Castle

Scholars describe Ryther Castle as a modest, fortified manor, likely never having substantial defences. It is also known by the name Hall Garth, referring to the field where it stood. The castle's decline is suggested by a 1440 report on Sir William Ryther's estate, which described the manor house and several cottages as being in a "ruinous" or "waste" condition. By the time the de Rhythre family relinquished the estate, the structure was a total loss. Today there is nothing to see here, merely an overgrown beck and bog, largely obscured by trees.

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Tricky Trevor
August 7, 2025, Its a sign!

Lots of signage on this route. Some directional and some informative.

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Pat
November 4, 2024, Bishop Wood

We didn't play out in here as were on a Road Ride

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RichD
August 31, 2024, Selby Abbey

Spectacular abbey for such a small town. Interesting info board describing the 19th Century cholera epidemic and associated graveyard, much like the one just outside the walls opposite York Station.

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Nice little park just south of Selby Abbey.

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Grade I listed building. The surviving fifteenth-century structures formed part of a fortified medieval palace belonging to the Archbishops of York, which was dismantled in the aftermath of the English Civil War. The only remaining parts of the castle are the gatehouse and the banqueting hall. Stones from the destroyed castle were used in the construction of surrounding houses. The foundations of some other structures do remain as well as the castle's cellar, which was excavated in the 19th century. The gatehouse served as a courthouse until the 1930s, before being used as an officers' mess and a building for the Home Guard during World War II. The first fortifications on this site are believed to be those built by King Athelstan in the 10th Century.

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RichD
August 26, 2024, Cawood Bridge

Grade II listed swing bridge opened in 1872. The deck was submerged when the River Ouse flooded in 2015.

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The oldest part of the church is the west wall, dating from the mid- or late-12th century. The chancel and south aisle were added in the 13th century. The church was first recorded in 1294, but is believed to have previously been a chapel of Cawood Castle. In the churchyard is a stone with a cup-like hollow, believed to have been used for depositing donations for lepers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available around Drax?

There are 6 mountain bike trails around Drax listed on komoot. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate options, primarily following river and canal paths through a flat landscape.

Are there easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Drax?

Yes, Drax offers several easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners. For example, the Cawood Bridge – Cawood Castle Gatehouse loop from Selby is an easy 20.2-mile (32.5 km) route that takes about 1 hour 47 minutes, exploring the area around Cawood Castle. Another great option is the Selby Canal – Cawood Bridge loop from Selby, a 15.4-mile (24.8 km) trail through canal towpaths and open countryside.

What are the options for more challenging mountain bike rides around Drax?

While Drax is known for its gentle gradients, there are moderate options for those seeking a longer ride. The Cawood Bridge – Selby Canal loop from Selby is a moderate 32.1-mile (51.6 km) path that follows the Selby Canal, offering extended stretches of waterside riding.

Are there any family-friendly mountain biking routes in Drax?

Many of the easy, flat routes along canal towpaths and riverside trails are suitable for families. The gentle gradients and open views make for a pleasant experience. Consider the Cawood Bridge – Solar System Cycleway loop from Selby, an easy 34.4-mile (55.4 km) route that offers an interesting theme for younger riders.

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

The mountain bike trails around Drax primarily feature a flat landscape with gentle gradients. You'll mostly ride on river and canal paths, such as those along the River Ouse and the Selby Canal. There are also some woodland sections and open agricultural land, providing varied scenery.

Are there circular mountain bike routes available in Drax?

Yes, most of the mountain bike trails around Drax are designed as circular loops. Examples include the Cawood Bridge – Cawood Castle Gatehouse loop from Selby and the Bishop Wood Forest Trails – Cawood Bridge loop from Selby, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

What are some interesting landmarks or attractions to see along the mountain bike trails?

While mountain biking around Drax, you can encounter several points of interest. The Selby Canal itself is a prominent feature, offering scenic waterside riding. You might also pass near historical sites like Howden Minster Ruins or Carlton Towers. For nature lovers, Saltmarshe Delph Nature Reserve is another highlight in the wider area.

What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Drax?

The flat terrain and well-maintained paths around Drax make mountain biking enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also great, especially along the open canal paths, but be prepared for more sun exposure. Winter riding is possible, but paths can be muddy or wet, so appropriate gear is recommended.

What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Drax?

The mountain bike trails around Drax are rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.0 stars. Riders often appreciate the flat, accessible routes along the canals and rivers, which are ideal for relaxed rides and exploring the local countryside.

Are there any cafes or pubs near the mountain bike trails in Drax?

While specific establishments directly on the trails are limited, the routes often pass through or near villages and towns like Selby and Cawood. These locations typically offer a selection of cafes, pubs, and shops where you can refuel and relax after your ride.

What are the typical distances and durations for mountain bike trails in Drax?

The mountain bike trails around Drax vary in length and duration. Easy routes, such as the Selby Canal – Cawood Bridge loop from Selby, are around 15.4 miles (24.8 km) and can be completed in about 1 hour 18 minutes. Longer, moderate routes like the Cawood Bridge – Selby Canal loop from Selby can be over 32.1 miles (51.6 km) and take closer to 2 hours 40 minutes.

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