3.4
(15)
63
riders
10
rides
Mountain biking around Fownhope offers access to the diverse landscapes of the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and the meandering River Wye, providing varied terrain for off-road cycling. While Fownhope itself features bridleways and forest tracks, its proximity to the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre expands the mountain biking opportunities significantly. This area provides a mix of natural trails and purpose-built routes suitable for different skill levels.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
3.8
(5)
8
riders
19.5km
01:45
370m
370m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.5
(4)
11
riders
25.6km
01:38
350m
350m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
12
riders
35.5km
02:33
370m
370m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
24.8km
01:47
300m
300m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.0
(1)
5
riders
14.0km
01:17
270m
270m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
This is a particularly fine stretch of the river Wye, as recognized by the Wye Valley National Landscape. The stretched out village of Hoarwithy occupies the west bank, with its unusual Italianate St Catherine's church. The river is crossed by the old toll bridge with it's little Tollhouse - they stopped collecting tolls in the 1930's when the bridge was bought for public ownership.
0
0
In the words of the National Tranport Trust - Wilton Bridge is an exceptionally fine red sandstone bridge. In 1597 an Act was passed authorising its construction. It was completed within the next 2 years. There are five semi- circular arches each with 3 ribs and massive cutwaters on each side, carried up and splayed back from the outer angle at parapet level forming semi-hexagonal refuges. At the point where the splay dies out is a moulded string which is mitred and carried up to the angle against the spandrils of the arches and then mitred and carried across to form a label above the arches. The voussoirs of the arches are chamfered and joggled and have various masons' marks. On the upstream side the bridge has been widened but now the parapet has been replaced by a wooden handrail. The South East approach to the bridge has been rebuilt in ashlar with 2 flights of stone steps to the river bank. The sundial, formerly in one of the refuges has disappeared, and only the base of the pedestal remains. All in all it is a fine bridge, and has done well to weather the floods that happen most winters - as evidenced by the erosion of even the top stones on the arches.
0
0
As you climb out of Ross (or descend towards it), you get a fine view of the town from Brampton Street, especially when there is a slight mist in the air.
0
0
Located on Wilton Road just outside Ross-on-Wye, Wilton Bridge, constructed between 1597 and 1599, is crafted from red sandstone. It replaced a previous wooden bridge that had taken the place of the original ford in the Wye.
1
0
Canary Bridge (formally the Greenway bridge) was renamed in memory of The Canary Girls who worked in the Rotherwas Munitions Factory. The pedestrian and cyclist suspension bridge links the centre more directly to the Rotherwas industrial estate over the River Wye.
0
0
Haugh Woods Butterfly Trails are two short trails that meander the ancient woodland of Haugh Woods. The trails have been set up by Forestry England to allow everyone to enjoy the numerous butterflies and moths that live here. This is an important site for UK butterflies (we are in short supply!) and this woodland gives nearly 350 hectares or 850 acres for them to breed. There are about over 600 of both species living here!
0
0
This is a beautiful area. Walking through Joan’s Hill Farm Nature Reserve and the surrounding countryside epitomises the best of the English countryside. You will be surrounded by undisturbed woodland, flower rich meadows and wildlife.
0
0
There are 12 mountain bike trails around Fownhope listed on komoot, offering a mix of easy and moderate routes. Six of these are rated easy, and six are moderate, providing options for various skill levels.
The terrain around Fownhope is diverse, characterized by rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and the meandering River Wye. You'll find a mix of bridleways, forest tracks, and unpaved sections. Routes often explore areas like Haugh Woods, known for its ancient woodlands, and follow sections along the River Wye.
Yes, there are several easy mountain bike trails. For example, the The Old Bridge, Hereford – Hereford Cathedral loop from Hereford is an easy 23.1 km route. Another accessible option is the Bench With View of Wye Valley – Holy Rood Church, Mordiford loop from Hereford, which is 24.8 km and also rated easy.
You can encounter several interesting landmarks and natural features. The River Wye – Haugh Woods Butterfly Trails loop from Hereford takes you through the scenic River Wye valley and past the Haugh Woods Butterfly Trails. Other points of interest in the wider area include the Iron Age Capler Camp Hillfort, offering excellent viewpoints, and the historic Wilton Bridge.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Fownhope are circular. For instance, the Haugh Woods Loop — Wye Valley is a popular circular trail exploring ancient woodlands. Another option is the Wilton Bridge – Hoarwithy Bridge loop from Brockhampton, which follows sections along the River Wye.
The mountain bike routes in Fownhope are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 15 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the beauty of the Wye Valley AONB, and the opportunities to explore ancient woodlands.
While Fownhope itself offers moderate trails, its proximity to the renowned Forest of Dean Cycle Centre makes it an excellent base for more advanced mountain biking. The Forest of Dean provides an extensive network of graded trails, including challenging red-graded trails like the Freeminers Trail and various downhill trails for expert riders. For more information on downhill trails, you can visit visitdeanwye.co.uk.
Yes, several trails provide scenic views of the Wye Valley. The Bench With View of Wye Valley – Holy Rood Church, Mordiford loop from Hereford is specifically named for its views. Additionally, the Capler Camp Hillfort, accessible from some routes, offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
The Wye Valley AONB, where Fownhope is located, is beautiful year-round. Spring brings bluebells to Nupend Wood, while autumn offers vibrant foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours. However, trail conditions can vary with weather, so it's always advisable to check local forecasts, especially during wetter seasons, as some unpaved sections might become muddy.
Specific parking information for individual trailheads is usually detailed on each komoot tour page. Generally, Fownhope and nearby villages offer various parking options. For broader information on local amenities and facilities in Fownhope, you might find resources on the Fownhope Parish Council website, such as fownhopeparishcouncil.gov.uk/see-and-do/.
Fownhope village itself has local pubs and amenities. Many routes pass through or near villages in the Wye Valley, offering opportunities for refreshment stops. For example, the Wilton Bridge – Hoarwithy Bridge loop from Brockhampton passes through areas where you might find local establishments.
Many trails in the Fownhope area, particularly those on public bridleways and in woodlands, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under control, especially around livestock or in nature reserves. Always check specific signage on trails for any restrictions or requirements, such as keeping dogs on a lead.


Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.