4.4
(10)
43
riders
5
rides
Mountain biking around Kirkwhelpington offers diverse terrain across Northumberland's rolling landscape. The area features a mix of open country, forested sections, and elevated viewpoints like the Simonside Hills. Riders can expect varied surfaces, from rough gravel tracks to more defined forest paths. The region provides a natural setting for mountain bike trails, catering to different skill levels.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
5.0
(1)
14
riders
34.8km
03:05
570m
570m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(2)
8
riders
45.8km
02:57
480m
480m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

Sign up for free
4.0
(3)
5
riders
31.2km
02:33
470m
460m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
2
riders
15.9km
01:24
170m
170m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
2
riders
24.8km
02:14
310m
310m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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
Good trails to ride on, great views on a sunny day. Can either include as part of a Rothbury/Simonside ride, or head over to Harwood Forest
0
0
Top of the Whitefield Trail. Tremendous descent down to Hepple. Some pretty lumpy gravel in places, finishes on a meadow track. Doable on a gravel bike I guess but wider tyres would make for a better ride
0
0
Classic Northumberland cycling cafe. Tasty food reasonably priced, top cake
0
0
Grassy tracks on the Bolam side, more gravelly western. The section in the Nick is quite technical, lots of boulders. Great track end to end
0
0
Tremendous descent, would be a tough climb in places
0
0
There are 5 mountain bike trails detailed around Kirkwhelpington, offering a range of experiences across Northumberland's varied landscape.
Yes, there is one easy mountain bike trail. The Rough Gravel Track – Rough Dirt Road loop from Harwood is a 15.9 km route, ideal for those looking for a less challenging ride through accessible gravel and dirt roads.
The mountain bike trails around Kirkwhelpington vary in length. For example, the easy Rough Gravel Track – Rough Dirt Road loop from Harwood is 15.9 km, while the moderate Shaftoe Crags loop from Kirkwhelpington extends to 42.9 km.
The trails around Kirkwhelpington are primarily rated as easy to moderate. There are no trails currently classified as difficult, making the area suitable for intermediate riders and those looking to progress from beginner routes.
You can expect diverse terrain, including rolling hills, open country, and forested sections. Surfaces range from rough gravel tracks to more defined forest paths, with elevated viewpoints like the Simonside Hills offering expansive views.
Yes, all the mountain bike trails listed for Kirkwhelpington are circular routes. Examples include the Whitefield Trail – Viewpoint on Simonside Hills loop from Harwood and the Rough Gravel Track – Rough Dirt Road loop from Elsdon.
While riding, you might encounter natural monuments and viewpoints. Notable attractions in the wider area include the stunning Hareshaw Linn Waterfall, the unique The Punch Bowl, and the scenic Kirkharle Serpentine Lake.
Beyond the trails, you can explore historical sites such as Winter's Gibbet, a notable local landmark. There's also the Stone Cross and Church in Matfen, offering a glimpse into the region's heritage.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from 10 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the expansive views from elevated points like the Simonside Hills, and the mix of open country and forested sections.
The rolling landscape of Northumberland makes mountain biking enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for potentially muddy conditions and shorter daylight hours.
Yes, the Whitefield Trail – Viewpoint on Simonside Hills loop from Harwood is specifically highlighted for its expansive views from the Simonside Hills, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding Northumberland landscape.
Given the varied terrain and potential for changing weather in Northumberland, it's advisable to wear layers. Technical wicking fabrics, a waterproof jacket, and appropriate padded shorts are recommended. Always wear a helmet and consider gloves for comfort and protection.


Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.