The best 20 mountain bike trails in the UK

Perhaps some of the most invigorating, scenic and exciting bike trails are located in the mountains. These kinds of trails are ideal for those looking to fulfil their sense of adventure and provide an unforgettable biking experience every time.

 

British cyclists aiming to experience the thrill of the mountains are in the right place. We’ve come up with a list of the UK’s top 20 mountain bike trails, all of which offer something unique and have varying levels of difficulty.

 

Before you reach your destination, it’s important to know, or familiarise yourself with the colour-coded guide that shows the difficulty level of each trail you plan to tackle: 

 

• Green trails - some of the easiest trails available and suitable for beginners

• Blue trails - a moderate level of difficulty, ideal for individuals with basic off-roading experience

• Red trails - difficult and requiring high quality, reliable mountain bikes and a good level of fitness.

• Black trails - the most severe and intense trails around. To enjoy these, you must be an expert mountain biker and specialist bikes are recommended.

 

1. Nan Bield Pass, Lake District

 

Located in the Lake District, this 22-mile trail combines intense cycling conditions with breathtaking views. Whilst it starts off gently, it quickly develops into some seriously hard riding!

 

From steep slopes to uneven ground and boulders, Nan Bield Pass is designed to test your skills as a mountain biker. You’ll no doubt feel a burn in your arms and legs after this technical ride but you will be rewarded with a great descent and stunning views.

 

2. The Dark Peak, Peak District

 

Next, we have the notorious Dark Peak. Nestled in the northern part of the Peak District, the 70km route is well-known for its rocky biking tracks that provide cyclists with an exhilarating ride.

 

This trail is ideal for those looking for a technically demanding ride whilst taking in the beautiful countryside views. A bucket list trail for all biking enthusiasts.

 

Image source: bikepacking.com

 

3. Dalby Forest, South Yorkshire

 

Dalby Forest offers a range of fantastic trails for cyclists of varying abilities. One of the things we love about this location is the shorter, two to six-mile green routes that are great for children and families - the perfect introductory route for budding mountain bikers.

 

For those looking for a more challenging ride, there are also daring red routes that feature sharp turns and uneven terrains that’ll see you weaving in and out of the forest’s tall trees.

 

Image source: provizsports.com

 

4. Rhyd Ddu, Snowdon, Wales

 

This mountain bike trail takes you all the way to the top of Wales’ highest peak, providing a steep climb that’ll get your heart pumping. Once you reach the top, you can take in stunning views, then whizz down the single track.

 

We guarantee this will be a route you’ll never forget. The quality of the trails combined with the spectacular scenery makes it well worth the trip.

 

Image source: flattyres-mtb.co.uk

 

5. Cannock Chase, The Midlands

 

This purpose-built trail is home to some excellent red routes, from the seven-mile Follow the Dog to the 14-mile Monkey Trail. Cannock Chase is the ideal place to explore on your bike, especially after being dubbed an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty back in 1958.

 

With a bike trail that makes you feel at one with the forest, the flowing track sends you twisting and turning through pine trees that envelop your senses as you ride.

 

Image source: mbr.co.uk

 

6. Torridon, Scotland

 

Ideal for the lone rider, the isolated trail of Torridon boasts some of the best views you’ll find in the UK. With a gradual and consistent ascent, this trail is rideable in all conditions due to its firm, stony path.

 

Offering a good amount of grip, the Torridon trail is suitable for a variety of riders - and you don’t need a specialist mountain bike to enjoy the circuit.

 

Image source: mtbguiding.co.uk

 

7. Ullswater, Lake District

 

This 8-mile route is a real workout. Taking you on a path that allows you to experience the natural wonder of the Lake District’s most stunning lake, you’ll soon find yourself exploring away from the beaten path.

 

Ullswater is perfect for adrenaline-seekers due to the thrill of a speedy descent from the head of the Boredale Valley.

 

Image source: another.place

 

8. Quantocks, Somerset

 

If you’re a fan of downhill trails, the Quantocks in Somerset is the ultimate classic trail for you. Test yourself on the technically demanding descents as you fly down the natural singletrack and experience a true rush of adrenaline.

 

This is a great trail to experience as a group, perfect for those who like to get competitive with their cycling and rise to the challenge.

 

Image source: pinkbike.com

 

9. Cut Gate Path, Peak District

 

This is a fantastic trail that is often missed out, as it can be hard to decide how to fit it into a loop. However, this classic and technically challenging natural trail is just waiting to be explored by experienced mountain bikers.

 

Cut Gate Path is one tough trail. In a remote, exposed setting, you’ll be pushed to your limits with rocky surfaces and technical climbs but the rewards are there for the taking.

 

Image source: mendmountains.thebmc.co.uk

 

10. Snowdon Ranger Path, Wales

 

The Snowdon Ranger Path is one for the brave. There are some restrictions placed on cyclists on this lesser explored trail, meaning many riders end up tackling it in the winter when there are fewer walkers.

 

With that comes a high chance of gruelling weather, which makes the loose surfaces and tight switchbacks interesting. So, it’s an experience like no other but make sure you plan for every eventuality and ensure someone knows where you are.

 

 

11. Exmoor, Somerset

 

Ideal for those who cycle for fitness, this trail starts with a steep climb and then features even more punchy ascents. Starting in Porlock and dropping through Horner Wood, the track then opens to Moorland Brockwell.

 

This is the perfect wilderness location for people who want to lose themselves to hours of fresh air and exploration miles away from the stresses and strains of modern civilisation.

 

Image source: my.viewranger.com

 

12. Helvellyn and Sticks Pass, Lake District

 

Whilst Helvellyn is the third highest peak in the Lake District, it is the most rewarding to ride. Starting off from a dramatic lakeside setting, you can gaze up into the peaks as you climb.

 

And then there’s the reward of descent down Sticks Pass, ensuring this trail is nothing short of glorious. It really does offer riders a fulfilling cycling experience.

 

Image source: flattyres-mtb.co.uk

 

13. Gunnerside Gill, Yorkshire Dales

 

Do not be fooled by the seemingly simple view of Gunnerside Gill. This trail, located on the flat tops of the moors, has an unrivalled severity. From steep climbs to journeys across thick contours, it's a track for the adventurous type.

 

Gunnerside Gill is just as much a journey as it is a cycle track. Make sure you dedicate enough time to finding your way across this route.

 

Image source: wildbike.co.uk

 

14. Kinlochleven Ciaran Path, Scotland

 

If you’re a fan of hurtling down rocky paths at high speeds, Kinlochleven Ciaran Path is a mountain trail you’ll want to check out. Located in the Scottish Highlands, this scenic route combines a technical ride with stunning surroundings.

 

This route is often quieter and less crowded than other trails, allowing for a more intimate experience with the rolling hills and a good dose of peace and quiet.

 

Image source: mbr.co.uk

 

15. Howgill Fells, Cumbria

 

This classic looped trail sends you deep into the mountains of Cumbria, allowing you to experience a singletrack that rivals the views of some of the best Lakeland trails the UK has to offer.

 

This fairly inaccessible trail offers a more tranquil riding experience. However, there are no shortcuts, so be prepared to take on the whole thing or not at all.

 

Image source: fattyres.co.uk

 

16. Peaslake, Surrey Hills

 

There’s no wonder that Peaslake in the Surrey Hills is on every mountain biking enthusiast’s bucket list. The official Surrey Hills experience begins from the top of Holmbury Hill where you can experience one of the most popular trails: Barry Knows Best.

 

Ideal for those who have a lot of pent-up energy, you can take the fire road which brings you back round to the start for an extra lap.

 

Image source: mbr.co.uk

 

17. Long Mynd, Shropshire

 

Long Mynd is one of the longest, fastest and most fun mountain bike trails in the UK. The lack of tree cover on this Shropshire route provides you with sprawling views for miles and no restrictions on exploring.

 

It is renowned for being a breezy route, so if you’re looking for a challenge, this is a great trail for you. But maybe wrap up.

 

Image source: cyclist.co.uk

 

18. Great Hograh Moor, Yorkshire

 

A prime six-mile stretch of singletrack, Great Hograh Moor offers mountain bikers an array of delights. With stunning views across the moors and technical climbs to tackle, it's one of the most popular trails in Yorkshire.

 

With a blue-rated difficulty level, this is a fantastic trail to visit with a cycling group and will get your blood pumping without being too strenuous.

 

Image source: geograph.org.uk

 

19. Dunnerdale Fells, Lake District

 

The Dunnerdale Fells trail is a challenging yet rewarding mixture of climbing and navigation, making it a firm favourite with visitors and locals alike. Once you’ve pushed through the first half, the singletrack then eases in for a more gentle ride.

 

This Lake District trail is often referred to as a rollercoaster. So, if you aren’t afraid of some unpredictability, this may just be the perfect experience for you.

 

Image source: mtbguiding.co.uk

 

20. Doethie Valley, Wales

 

What do you get when you combine demanding climbs with some of the most epic views you’ve ever seen? The bike trail in Doethie Valley, Wales. The singletrack winds its way down the valley and offers a selection of rocky slabs to roll and jump.

 

The descent is certainly not for the faint-hearted, as roots and rocks make for the ultimate off-camber fun. But, if you’re up for that kind of thing, you’re in for a treat.

 

Image source: mbr.co.uk

 

Are you ready for your next mountain biking adventure?

 

Now you know the best mountain bike trails in the UK, the ultimate question is which one will you visit first? No matter where you choose to go, make sure you’re kitted out with some athleisure essentials.

 

Are you in need of some inspiration for your mountain biking wardrobe? We have a wide range of comfortable, breathable and functional athleisure clothing ranging from joggers to mid layers that’ll see you through your mountainous rides.