The best MTB trails around Sherwood Forest

There are over 130 mountain bike trails around Sherwood Forest, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. You'll find routes from easy, family-friendly rides to more challenging singletrack.

Yes, Sherwood Forest offers many options for beginners and families. Over 50 easy-graded routes are available. For instance, Vicar Water Lake – Vicar Water Lake loop is an easy 9.8-mile trail, and Clumber Park is known for its relatively easy, non-technical trails, perfect for family cycling.

For more advanced riders, Sherwood Pines Forest Park features red-graded cross-country trails like the 13 km Kitchener Trail. The lesser-known Watchwood Plantation also offers technical singletrack, and Mushroom Farm has jumps for those seeking more thrills. Overall, there is 1 difficult-graded route and over 80 moderate-graded routes in the area.

Sherwood Pines Forest Park is a major hub, offering a dedicated MTB Trail Centre with green, blue, and red graded trails, plus a bike park. Clumber Park provides over 20 miles of non-technical trails, ideal for longer, scenic rides. You can explore routes like the Death Valley Trail – Outlaw MTB Trail Start loop for varied singletrack or the Footbridge at Crookford Hill – Clumber Park Lake loop for scenic lake views.

Sherwood Forest is rich in natural beauty and history. You can ride past ancient oak trees, some over 500 years old. The iconic Major Oak, famously associated with Robin Hood, is a must-see. Other highlights include the Medusa Oak and the tranquil surroundings of Vicar Water Lake, which you can explore on routes like the Vicar Water Lake – Hellfire Alley Trail loop.

Yes, many mountain bike trails in Sherwood Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Death Valley Trail – Outlaw MTB Trail Start loop and the Clumber Park Lake – Clumber Park loop, offering convenient circular options for your ride.

The komoot community highly rates mountain biking in Sherwood Forest, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,000 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse singletrack, the beauty of the ancient oak woodlands, and the well-maintained facilities, especially at Sherwood Pines. The variety of trails catering to all skill levels is also frequently highlighted.

While many trails in Sherwood Forest are dog-friendly, it's important to keep dogs under control, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock. Always check specific park rules, such as those at Sherwood Pines or Clumber Park, regarding dogs on trails. Some areas may require dogs to be on a lead.

Sherwood Pines Forest Park offers ample parking facilities, often with a charge. Other popular starting points, like the Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve, also have designated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific trailheads or park websites for current parking information and fees before your visit.

Yes, you'll find facilities near many of the main mountain biking areas. Sherwood Pines Forest Park has a café on-site. Additionally, the villages surrounding Sherwood Forest, such as Edwinstowe, offer various pubs and cafes where you can refuel after your ride.

Sherwood Forest is enjoyable for mountain biking year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be great, but trails might be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions, especially on natural singletrack.

Generally, you do not need a specific permit to mountain bike on public bridleways and designated cycle trails within Sherwood Forest. However, some specific sites like Sherwood Pines Forest Park may have charges for parking or access to certain facilities. Always respect signage and local regulations.