Best time to visit England

Winter Mountain Biking in England

Winter is not a reason to hide your mountain bike in England

Best time: November–March

Winter Mountain Biking
Winter Mountain Biking
Winter Mountain Biking
Winter Mountain Biking

The moderate winter in England allows you to explore the country by bicycle. Bicycle routes have a wide geography here—from the country’s rocky and sandy beaches to the mountain tops. The list of the finest winter trails in England includes the stony or paved gritstone trails of the Pennines which are the most popular.

The Yorkshire Dales National Park is rich in heather moorland, broken limestone, and recently upgraded bridleways. Some areas of the park are a mix of rocky descents, steady climbs, and fast doubletracks. The main feature of winter riding is the wind, a constant companion for any bikers.

A similar itinerary can be found in Thetford Forest in Suffolk which is perfect in winter. It may not seem suitable due to the rainfall but Furness Fells are favourable as the water sheets off its surface leaving a tough, hard base for riding. Somerset trails are long ridgelines with countless steep, wooded descents and a mountain ascent. Biking fans like the Peak District mostly in summer, but this vertebrate route is popular also in winter

Practical info

What are the best winter mountain biking trails in England?

England has multiple options for bike trails throughout the year. However, for winter biking, the Pennines is a favourite among enthusiasts. Featuring stony and paved gritstone trails, it offers a challenging terrain. Thetford Forest in Suffolk is perfect for winter biking, with tough and hard trails, and lively scenery. Somerset Trails have long ridgelines with steep and wooded descents, and mountain climbs. The Yorkshire Dales National Park, with heather moorlands and broken limestone, features some of the UK's best bridleways.  Show more

When is the ideal time to go mountain biking in England?

The best time for biking in England is between November and March. Despite the cold weather, this moderate winter season is perfect for exploring different cycling routes. Winter season visitors enjoy the lesser crowds and magnificent natural scenery. Show more

What are the weather conditions like during winter mountain biking in England?

Expect temperatures in the range of 0°C and 8°C while winter season biking in England. Higher altitudes feature instantly changing weather patterns and precipitation, and winter storms with high winds can disrupt cycling. Proper gear and dressing in layers are necessary to prevent any issues during cycling in windy terrain.  Show more

Where is Thetford Forest located and why is it suitable for winter mountain biking?

Thetford Forest in Suffolk features a hard base ideal for mountain biking. It has an extensive network of bike trails amidst lively natural scenery, which is breathtaking and ideal for exploring new trails. Away from crowded cities, it provides a cheaper option to enjoy new terrains and trails. Show more

What are some unique features of mountain biking in the Yorkshire Dales National Park?

The Yorkshire Dales National Park, a year-round destination for mountain bikers, has classic dales riding. With steady climbs, fast double tracks and UK's best bridleways, it promises a varied terrain for a thrilling experience. During winter, be ready to face windy conditions, adding an extra challenge for cyclists. Natural scenery is spectacular, and the biking experience is unforgettable. Show more

Ask a question

Find hotels and airbnbs near Winter Mountain Biking (Map)

Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin