The best MTB trails around Bessborough Reservoir

There are over 50 mountain bike trails available for exploration around Bessborough Reservoir, catering to various skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has used these routes over 500 times.

The trails around Bessborough Reservoir offer a good mix of difficulty levels. You'll find approximately 24 easy routes, 26 moderate routes, and at least 1 difficult route, ensuring options for beginners to more experienced riders.

While Bessborough Reservoir itself is a private ecological site, the surrounding areas offer diverse terrain. You can expect flat river paths along the Thames, heathland trails in areas like Molesey Heath Nature Reserve, and the more varied and challenging greensand geology of the nearby Surrey Hills, which provides excellent drainage for year-round riding.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for families and beginners. A great option is the Shepperton Lock – Thames Lock loop from Hampton, an 11.8-mile (19.0 km) path that offers a relaxed ride along the river with minimal elevation gain.

Many trails in the surrounding areas, particularly those along the River Thames and in nature reserves like Molesey Heath, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to check local signage for specific restrictions, especially concerning wildlife conservation areas, and ensure your dog is under control.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Coxes Lock and Mill Pond – Thames Lock loop from Hampton is a popular 29.0-mile (46.6 km) circular trail following the River Thames.

The trails often follow the River Thames, offering views of islands and houseboats. You might also pass through Molesey Heath Nature Reserve with its heathland, or venture into the Surrey Hills, known for its beautiful landscapes. Bessborough Reservoir itself is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its wildfowl, though it's on private land without public access. You can learn more about its ecological significance on Wikipedia.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 40 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from flat riverside paths to the more challenging sections in the Surrey Hills, and the scenic beauty of the Thames and surrounding nature.

Absolutely. For a longer and moderately challenging ride, consider the Walton Bridge – Coxes Lock and Mill Pond loop from Hersham, which spans 23.4 miles (37.6 km) and leads through riverside landscapes and local villages. Another option is the Coxes Lock and Mill Pond – New Haw Lock loop from Walton-on-Thames, covering 43.4 km.

Thanks to the greensand geology of the nearby Surrey Hills, which provides excellent drainage, mountain biking in the broader region around Bessborough Reservoir is often possible year-round. However, spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery.

While many routes along the Thames are relatively flat, venturing towards the Surrey Hills will offer more significant elevation changes. For example, the Deer in Richmond Park – Kingston Gate, Richmond Park loop from Esher, though further afield, includes over 200 meters of elevation gain, providing a more challenging ride.

Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many starting points for routes along the Thames or in nearby towns like Hampton, Hersham, or Walton-on-Thames will have public car parks. For trails within the Surrey Hills, dedicated parking areas are often available, though it's advisable to check specific route details for parking recommendations.