The best MTB trails around Hexhamshire

Hexhamshire offers a wide selection of mountain bike trails, with around 60 routes available. These include 14 easy, 44 moderate, and 2 difficult trails, catering to various skill levels.

Hexhamshire is characterized by its rugged and varied terrain. You'll find extensive areas of moorland, including parts of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with blanket bog and heathland. The landscape features rolling hills, some under 200m, and areas deeply dissected by rivers. Hexhamshire Common is particularly known for its rolling moorland and sinuous singletrack sections, offering a high 'smile-factor' and some technical challenges.

Yes, Hexhamshire offers routes for advanced riders. For a significant challenge, consider the Bellingham & Hexham loop on the Sandstone Way. This difficult 63.4 km trail involves over 900 meters of climbing and follows sections of the 120-mile Sandstone Way, requiring very good fitness and advanced riding skills.

Hexhamshire has a good selection of moderate mountain bike trails. A popular option is the Allendale Common & Whitley Chapel loop from Allendale Town — North Pennines, which is 29.8 km long and explores the open landscapes of the North Pennines. Another great choice is the Derwent Reservoir – Ruffside loop from Blanchland, a 25.7 km trail through varied terrain near the reservoir.

The mountain bike trails in Hexhamshire are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 80 reviews. Over 400 mountain bikers have explored the varied terrain, often praising the rugged moorlands and the engaging singletrack sections, particularly on Hexhamshire Common, for their unique riding experience.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in Hexhamshire are designed as loops. Examples include the Allendale Common & Whitley Chapel loop from Allendale Town — North Pennines and the Derwent Reservoir – Ruffside loop from Blanchland. These circular routes allow you to start and finish at the same point, making logistics easier.

While riding in Hexhamshire, you can encounter several natural and historical landmarks. You might pass by the Bolts Law Trig Point or the Crow Coal Hill Trig Point, offering expansive views. The area is also close to significant sites like Hadrian's Wall, and you can find highlights such as Sycamore Gap and Milecastle 39 on Hadrian's Wall. For water features, consider visiting Slitt Wood Waterfalls.

Yes, the Hexhamshire area features several reservoirs and lakes that can be part of your mountain biking adventure. The Derwent Reservoir – Ruffside loop from Blanchland takes you near Derwent Reservoir. Other nearby bodies of water include Burnhope Reservoir, Langley Dam, and Whittledean Reservoir.

The best time for mountain biking in Hexhamshire is generally from spring through autumn when the weather is milder and the trails are drier. The moorland terrain can be exposed and challenging in winter, with potential for wet and muddy conditions or even snow, especially on higher ground. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Absolutely. Hexhamshire's rugged and elevated terrain offers numerous viewpoints. From the high ground of The Sele in Hexham, you can get distant views of Hadrian's Wall. Many trails, particularly those on Hexhamshire Common and in the North Pennines, provide expansive vistas over the surrounding moorlands and valleys. For specific viewpoints, look for highlights like the View of Kielder Mires SSSI.

Yes, while Hexhamshire is known for its moorlands, there are also forest riding opportunities nearby. The Slaley Forest – Moorland Crossroads Signpost loop from Blanchland is a moderate trail that incorporates forest sections. Additionally, the broader Hexham area provides access to Slaley Forest, and Kielder Forest is a short drive away, offering extensive forest trails.

Yes, Hexhamshire is connected to longer routes. The Bellingham & Hexham loop on the Sandstone Way utilizes sections of the Sandstone Way, a 120-mile mountain biking route that stretches between Berwick upon Tweed and Hexham, following the sandstone ridge. This offers opportunities for multi-day adventures or longer rides.