The best MTB trails around Tunstall

There are over 30 mountain bike trails around Tunstall, offering a variety of experiences within the Suffolk Coasts and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. These routes navigate through coniferous plantations, broadleaved belts, and heathland areas.

The terrain in Tunstall Forest is generally flat but features numerous pits and earth-banks that add character and challenge. You'll ride through diverse landscapes including coniferous plantations, broadleaved belts, and heathland, providing varied riding environments. The famous Viking Trail, for instance, offers flowing singletrack, berms, and natural 'bomb holes'.

Yes, Tunstall offers a good selection of trails suitable for various skill levels. Out of the 31 available routes, 14 are rated as easy, making them ideal for beginners or family-friendly rides. An example of an easy route is the Ruins of Easby Abbey – Catterick Bridge loop from Colburn, which covers 11.7 miles through natural settings.

Absolutely. While many trails are accessible, Tunstall also caters to more proficient riders. The region research mentions a challenging 'snake pit' and other red-graded mountain bike trails. The Viking Trail, while generally flat, can be made more challenging by increasing speed and navigating its flowing singletrack, berms, and natural 'bomb holes'.

The mountain bike trails around Tunstall are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from 12 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, the natural feel of trails like the Viking Trail, and the varied riding environments found within the Suffolk Coasts and Heaths AONB.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Tunstall are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Whitcliffe Wood – Ruins of Easby Abbey loop from Colburn is a moderate 15-mile circular trail, and the Richmond Town Centre – Catterick Bridge loop from Catterick is another popular circular option.

Beyond the trails, the area offers several historical and natural attractions. You can visit the Ruins of Easby Abbey, explore the Richmond Market Town and Castle, or discover Kiplin Hall & Gardens. The region is also part of the Suffolk Coasts and Heaths AONB, offering picturesque natural beauty.

Tunstall Forest is generally welcoming to dog walkers, and many broad open tracks are suitable for dogs. However, as the forest is within the Suffolk Coasts and Heaths AONB and is a crucial habitat for ground-nesting birds like the Nightjar and Woodlark, it's important to keep dogs under close control, especially during nesting seasons, to protect wildlife.

Tunstall Forest offers a serene environment for various outdoor pursuits. You can enjoy walking and hiking, including a unique 'UFO trail'. The extensive trail network is also suitable for horse riding, and the heathland areas are perfect for birdwatching and nature observation. Orienteering events are also held in the forest.

Yes, for those looking for longer rides, routes like the Jingle Pot Road Climb – Dales Bike Centre & Café loop from Brough with St. Giles offer a substantial challenge. This moderate route spans over 32 miles (52.9 km) and involves significant elevation gain, making it suitable for a longer day out on the bike.

Yes, parking is available. The famous Viking Trail, for instance, begins from Sandgalls car park, providing a convenient starting point for your mountain biking adventure in Tunstall Forest.

Tunstall Forest can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time often depends on personal preference and trail conditions. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. While the trails are largely natural, checking local conditions before your ride is always advisable, especially after heavy rain, as some sections might become muddy.