The best MTB trails around Peterborough

Peterborough offers a wide selection of mountain bike trails, with nearly 40 routes documented on komoot. These trails cater to various skill levels, predominantly featuring easy and moderate options.

The mountain bike trails around Peterborough are characterized by an extensive network of paths, often following the River Nene and traversing parkland. The topography is generally relatively flat, offering a mix of riverine landscapes and open areas. While there are no difficult trails, you'll find a good variety of easy and moderate routes.

Yes, Peterborough has many easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners. For example, the Stanground Lock – Orton Mere Canoe Slalom Course loop from Thorpe Wood Nature Reserve is an easy 19.5-mile (31.4 km) trail that follows the River Nene. Another accessible option is the Orton Mere Canoe Slalom Course – Bluebell Trail — Riverside Path loop from Orton Longueville, which is 20.7 miles (33.3 km) long and also rated easy.

Many of the mountain bike trails in Peterborough are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular circular routes include the Ferry Meadows Visitor Centre – Orton Mere Canoe Slalom Course loop from Dogsthorpe, a moderate 22.6-mile (36.4 km) path, and the longer River Nene – Ferry Meadows Visitor Centre loop from Alwalton, which is 39.9 miles (64.3 km).

Many trails in Peterborough follow the River Nene, offering scenic riverside views. You can also pass by attractions such as Gunwade Lake and the Ferry Meadows Visitor Centre. Some routes also take you near historical sites like the Burghley House Bottle Lodges or the Shanks Millennium Bridge Over the River Nene.

The mountain biking experience in Peterborough is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Riders often praise the extensive trail network, the scenic river paths, and the varied parkland that offers options for different ability levels.

Yes, many trails in Peterborough are designed to showcase the region's waterways. Routes frequently follow the River Nene, and you'll find trails that pass by lakes such as Gunwade Lake and Teardrop Lake Beach, especially within areas like Ferry Meadows.

For those looking for a longer, moderate challenge, the River Nene – Ferry Meadows Visitor Centre loop from Alwalton is a 39.9-mile (64.3 km) trail. Another option is the Gunwade Lake – River Nene loop from Northborough, which covers 36.6 miles (58.9 km) with moderate difficulty.

Peterborough's extensive trail network is generally accessible year-round. However, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, making them ideal for exploring the river paths and parkland. Always check local conditions, especially after heavy rain, as some unpaved sections might become muddy.

Yes, Ferry Meadows is a central hub for mountain biking in Peterborough. Several routes either start from or pass through the area, including the Ferry Meadows Visitor Centre – Orton Mere Canoe Slalom Course loop from Dogsthorpe and the River Nene – Ferry Meadows Visitor Centre loop from Alwalton.

While Peterborough's overall topography is relatively flat, some routes do offer more elevation gain. For example, the Nene Valley Railway Bridge – Bike Hire and Café loop from Thorpe Wood Nature Reserve includes over 300 meters of ascent and descent, providing a more undulating experience compared to other local trails.