The best traffic-free bike rides around Whippendell Woods
4.0
(10)
88
riders
21
rides
Gravel biking around Whippendell Woods offers a diverse landscape for cyclists, characterized by ancient woodland and varied topography. The area features a mix of paved and unpaved segments, with off-road sections that can be rough, suitable for bikes with wider tires. Purpose-built trails, including "Whippy Trails," provide routes with features like flowing berms and rollers, constructed from native gravel and clay. The woods connect to the Grand Union Canal towpath and Cassiobury Park, extending the network of no traffic gravel…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
5.0
(1)
7
riders
23.2km
01:43
50m
50m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
15
riders
15.3km
00:58
60m
60m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.0
(1)
11
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
10
riders
21.0km
01:19
110m
110m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
50.5km
03:04
210m
210m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Whippendell Woods
Tips from the Community
Crossing point between Whipendall Woods / Whippy Trails and Cassiobury Park
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About 1922, the land between the River Colne and the canal was taken over by Rickmansworth Gravel Company. Building in the capital was booming and gravel was in demand. Extraction at the site began and the resulting pit became Stocker's Lake. The original Wembley stadium was built at around this time and many have since speculated on the possibility of a Wembley Connection? Dredging and gravel extraction continued until the 1940s. In 1947 Rickmansworth and Uxbridge Valley Water Company purchased Stocker's Lake (an area of 93.7 acres) for £5000 as the dredging agreement had expired. This was to protect the aquifer and pumping sources at Stocker's and Springwell. The company became Rickmansworth Water Company in 1985 and later part of Three Valleys Water Company, eventually Affinity Water, the present owners. In the 1970s Stocker’s Lake became a nature reserve and day to day management was assigned by the water company to Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust.
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The land on which Stocker's Lake now stands was once part of Stocker's Farm which is still there today. Records from 1427 show that the farm already existed and was owned by John Stockere or Stocker. In 1861, Stocker's House was built for the Corporation of London to house the Collector of Coal Dues on the Grand Union Canal. Stocker's House cost £850 to build and the first tenant was Mr. Charles Browton. The dues he collected were, for example, 4 shillings per ton of wine and 12 pence a ton of coal. However with the railways becoming increasingly popular it was decided to sell the house and in 1869 Lord Ebury offered £300
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Parkrun here every Saturday 9am, get there by 8.30am or the car park gets tricky. All other times the parking is easy 😉
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The Ebury Way is a 3.5-mile (5.6 km) rail trail in Hertfordshire between Watford and Rickmansworth. The route crosses the Grand Union Canal and three rivers: the River Colne, the River Chess and the River Gade. Its origin as the Watford and Rickmansworth Railway means that it is wide and largely flat. It forms part of National Cycle Route 61
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The Ebury Way is a flat, traffic-free cycle path between Rickmansworth and Watford. Shaded for hot days and dotted with scenic bridges, it also features a wooden hut café at Batchworth Lock (closed Mondays and Tuesdays) – ideal for a bacon sandwich by the canal. Keep an eye out for quirky touches like George Michael street art!
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The start of the Paddington arm and the this part of this canal was open on 1801. Length is 13.5 miles
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Multiple pump tracks and very short xc course with jumps
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available in Whippendell Woods?
There are over 20 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Whippendell Woods, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy and moderate routes to explore.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the gravel bike trails in Whippendell Woods?
The trails offer a diverse mix of paved and unpaved sections. While some parts can be rough and potentially muddy after rain, they are well-suited for gravel bikes with wider tires. The area is known for its varied topography, including hollows and dips, making for an engaging ride.
Are there any family-friendly gravel bike routes in Whippendell Woods?
Yes, Whippendell Woods offers several easy routes suitable for families. For a gentle ride, consider the Ebury Way – Ebury Way Cycle Path loop from Rickmansworth, which is mostly flat and avoids traffic.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Whippendell Woods?
Spring, particularly April to May, is a beautiful time to visit due to the stunning bluebell displays throughout the ancient woodland. Autumn also offers vibrant foliage. Be aware that some unpaved sections can become muddy after heavy rain, so check conditions if riding in wetter months.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes available?
Many of the routes around Whippendell Woods are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Black Jack's Mill loop from Rickmansworth, which offers a pleasant circular ride through the local landscape.
What attractions or points of interest can I see along the gravel bike trails?
Beyond the natural beauty of the ancient woodland, you can discover the historic 1672 avenue of lime trees. Many routes also connect to the Grand Union Canal towpath and the adjacent Cassiobury Park, offering additional scenic views and points of interest. Whippendell Woods was even a filming location for Star Wars: The Phantom Menace!
How can I access Whippendell Woods by public transport for gravel biking?
Whippendell Woods is accessible via public transport, particularly through Watford. Routes like the Hemel Hempstead Lock – Lady Capel's Bridge loop from Watford Junction start conveniently close to Watford Junction station, making it easy to arrive by train and begin your ride.
Are there dedicated mountain bike trails within Whippendell Woods that are suitable for gravel bikes?
Yes, Whippendell Woods features 'Whippy Trails,' a purpose-built mountain bike trail facility. These trails, constructed from native gravel and clay, offer flowing berms and rollers. While designed for mountain bikes, the 'blue' (all abilities) routes can be enjoyable on a capable gravel bike, offering a more dynamic experience. For more details on these specific trails, you can visit the Watford Council website.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about riding in Whippendell Woods?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the trails, the beautiful ancient woodland scenery, and the varied terrain that keeps rides interesting.
Are there any longer, more challenging gravel bike routes for experienced riders?
While many routes are easy to moderate, there are options for longer rides. For example, the Ebury Way Cycle Path – River Colne loop from Watford High Street is a moderate route spanning over 50 km, offering a more extended adventure through the region's diverse landscapes.
Is Whippendell Woods suitable for beginner gravel bikers?
Absolutely. Many of the trails are classified as easy, providing a gentle introduction to gravel biking. The varied surfaces allow beginners to get comfortable with off-road riding without overly technical challenges. Look for routes with 'easy' difficulty grades for the best experience.
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