The best MTB trails around Upper Hardres

Mountain biking around Upper Hardres features diverse landscapes with hilly terrain and extensive woodlands. The area is situated within the Kent Downs National Landscape, characterized by ancient bluebell woodlands and chalk grassland. You'll encounter varied and sometimes challenging terrain, often consisting of chalk or "hungry red earth" with "sharp flint stones".

There are over 40 mountain bike trails around Upper Hardres, catering to various skill levels. This includes 12 easy routes, 26 moderate routes, and 4 difficult routes, ensuring options for everyone from beginners to experienced riders.

Yes, Upper Hardres offers several easy mountain bike trails. An excellent option for families or beginners is the Covert Woods – View of Kent Downs Valley loop from Jumping Downs. This 10 km path winds through hilly terrain and woodlands, providing a pleasant and accessible ride.

The region, part of the Kent Downs National Landscape, offers stunning natural features. You can find ancient bluebell woodlands and chalk grassland. While specific viewpoints directly on the listed routes aren't detailed, the Kent Downs generally offers panoramic views, including the Wye Crown viewpoint and the Devil's Kneading Trough, which provide epic vistas over the Kent Downs and even to the English Channel.

The mountain bike routes in Upper Hardres are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 45 reviews. More than 300 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the diverse landscapes and extensive woodlands.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Botany Bay Chalk Cliffs – Reculver Towers and Roman Fort loop from Bekesbourne is a difficult 103.8 km trail. Another longer, moderate option is the North Downs Way & King's Wood loop from Canterbury – Kent Downs, which covers 45.7 km.

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Upper Hardres are designed as loops. Examples include the West Wood – Lyminge Forest loop from Rhodes Minnis and the Nature Mural on Cycle Path – Dirt Track Through Denge Woods loop from Canterbury East, offering convenient circular journeys.

Beyond the trails, you can explore several attractions. Nearby lakes include Chequers Wood and Old Park and Thanington Lakes on the Great Stour Way. For historical sites, consider visiting Westgate Towers or Chilham Square, a picturesque Kentish village with a castle and park.

Yes, several woodlands are popular for mountain biking. King's Wood is featured in the North Downs Way & King's Wood loop, and Lyminge Forest is part of the West Wood – Lyminge Forest loop. These areas offer extensive tree cover and varied trails.

The Kent Downs National Landscape, where Upper Hardres is located, is beautiful throughout the year. Ancient bluebell woodlands are particularly stunning in spring. However, given the chalk and flint terrain, conditions can vary seasonally. Autumn offers vibrant foliage, while summer provides warmer, drier trails. Winter rides are possible but may involve muddier conditions.

While Upper Hardres itself is more about natural trails, the nearby Old Park Mountain Bike Trails are a dedicated area for mountain biking. Additionally, Forestry England highlights family-friendly off-road cycling routes and dedicated mountain bike trails in nearby forests within the broader Kent area.