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Routes
MTB trails
United Kingdom
England
East Of England
Norfolk
Breckland District

Cockley Cley

The best MTB trails around Cockley Cley

4.3

(5)

20

riders

16

rides

Mountain biking around Cockley Cley offers diverse landscapes with interconnected trails traversing woodland paths and open fields. The region is characterized by its picturesque Norfolk countryside, featuring Cockley Cley Woods and Drymere Plantation. Gentle gradients are common, providing accessible and enjoyable cycling routes. The area includes both paved and unpaved segments, suitable for various mountain biking experiences.

Best mountain bike trails in Cockley Cley

  • The most popular mountain bike trail is Desert Rats Memorial – Pirate Hut in Thetford Forest…

Last updated: May 14, 2026

4.0

(2)

4

riders

#1.

Desert Rats Memorial – Brown's Café & Restaurant loop from Ickburgh

26.0km

01:32

110m

110m

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

Moderate
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Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.

Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

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August 27, 2025, The Shepherd's Bar

Cafe, serving light lunches, hot & cold drinks Open 7 days a week from 8am-5pm. https://www.shepherdsbaalynford.co.uk/

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The Pirate Hut's had a Hoxton makeover. I bet the grog's now 5db and there's a tattooist out back.

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Loving the newly refurbished Scurvey Dog Pirate Bar! ☠️ 🏴‍☠️ 🦜

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A good find, tucked away on a quiet corner down a little lane. The brightly-painted wooden furniture contributes to an eclectic look.

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They had run out of rum so best bring your own 😁

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Don't do what I did and try and cycle over the ramparts

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Fun place to have a race

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The memorial honours all those who served in the 7th Armoured Division (The Desert Rats), the 4th Armoured Brigade (The Black Rats), and the 7th Armoured Brigade (The Green Jerboa) throughout history. The area also features a network of interconnected trails perfect for mountain biking, do watch out for walkers though.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available around Cockley Cley?

Komoot features over a dozen mountain bike trails around Cockley Cley. These routes traverse diverse landscapes, including woodland paths and open fields, offering varied terrain for cyclists.

What is the general difficulty level of mountain biking in Cockley Cley?

The mountain biking routes in Cockley Cley primarily range from easy to moderate difficulty. There are 11 easy trails and 5 moderate trails, making the area accessible for various skill levels, with gentle gradients being common.

Are there any family-friendly mountain bike trails in Cockley Cley?

Yes, many of the trails around Cockley Cley are suitable for families, especially the easy-graded routes. These often feature gentle gradients and scenic woodland paths. An example of an easy trail is the Desert Rats Memorial – Pirate Hut in Thetford Forest loop from Ickburgh, which is 16.1 miles long.

Can I find circular mountain bike routes in the area?

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Cockley Cley are designed as loops, offering convenient circular rides. For instance, the popular The Shepherd's Bar – Desert Rats Memorial loop from Northwold is a moderate 29.3-mile circular path.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the mountain bike trails?

You can expect a varied terrain including interconnected woodland paths, open fields, and some unpaved segments. The region's picturesque Norfolk countryside, including Cockley Cley Woods and Drymere Plantation, contributes to a diverse riding experience.

What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Cockley Cley?

The komoot community rates the mountain biking in Cockley Cley highly, with an average score of 4.25 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the quiet woodland paths, and the accessibility of the routes for different skill levels.

Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along the mountain bike routes?

Yes, several routes pass by or are close to interesting landmarks. The Desert Rats Memorial is a significant point of interest featured on routes like the Desert Rats Memorial – Pirate Hut in Thetford Forest loop from Ickburgh. Other nearby attractions include the historic Castle Acre Castle and Bailey Gate and Castle Acre Priory.

Where can I find parking for mountain biking trails in Cockley Cley?

While specific parking areas for each trail are not detailed, many routes start from villages or areas with public parking. For routes like those connecting to Thetford Forest, designated parking facilities are often available near trailheads.

Are there any cafes or pubs near the mountain bike trails for refreshments?

The region around Cockley Cley is dotted with villages and towns that offer local amenities. While specific establishments on every trail are not listed, you can often find cafes and pubs in nearby settlements like Watton or Northwold, which serve as starting points for some routes.

What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Cockley Cley?

The Norfolk countryside offers enjoyable mountain biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer can be great for longer rides. Winter riding is also possible, though trail conditions may vary with weather.

Are dogs allowed on the mountain bike trails?

Many public footpaths and bridleways in the Norfolk countryside are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially around livestock. It's always advisable to check local signage or specific trail regulations for the most accurate information regarding dogs.

How long are the mountain bike trails near Cockley Cley?

Trail lengths vary, offering options for different ride durations. For example, you can find shorter routes like the Twisty Forest Path – Small Step-Down Jump loop from Marham at 12.8 miles (20.6 km), or longer rides such as The Shepherd's Bar – Desert Rats Memorial loop from Northwold, which is 29.3 miles (47.2 km).

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