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Routes
MTB trails
United Kingdom
England
East Midlands
Northamptonshire
Northampton

Northampton

The best MTB trails around Northampton

4.3

(35)

325

riders

51

rides

Mountain biking around Northampton offers diverse landscapes, from dedicated bike parks to extensive natural woodlands and canal paths. The region is characterized by varied terrain, including the Nene Valley, ancient forests like Salcey Forest, and several country parks centered around reservoirs. These features provide a mix of gentle slopes, technical sections, and scenic routes suitable for different skill levels.

Best mountain bike trails around Northampton

  • The most popular mountain bike trail is Northampton and Grand Union Canal Loop, a 22.4 miles (36.1 km) trail that takes 2 hours 20 minutes to complete. This route offers scenic views along the historic Grand Union Canal.
  • Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Brampton Valley Way – View of Pitsford Water loop from Northampton, a moderate 22.5 miles (36.3 km) path. This trail explores the Brampton Valley Way and provides views of Pitsford Water.
  • Local mountain bikers also love the River at Preston Deanery – Salcey Forest loop from Northampton, a 26.8 miles (43.2 km) trail leading through Salcey Forest, often completed in about 2 hours 46 minutes.
  • Mountain biking around Northampton is defined by dedicated facilities like Northampton Bike Park, extensive woodlands such as Salcey Forest, and picturesque canal paths. The network offers options for beginners to experienced riders, with trails ranging from easy to difficult.
  • The routes in Northampton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 30 reviews. More than 350 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Northampton's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 10, 2026

5.0

(2)

9

riders

#1.

Northampton and Grand Union Canal Loop

36.1km

02:20

200m

200m

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

Simon Wilson
March 29, 2026, Ornate Iron Footbridge

Sadly unable to get up on top of it now

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Paul77
January 16, 2026, Underpass

Rou can take the alternative rout over the Bedford Road. This is the opposite side of the river to the "unofficial underpass", which I expect was also flooded.

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long dark wet tunnel. Great fun.

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Nice start/end point for the Brampton Valley Way, Great ride with a pint to finish 😁

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Slowly rusting away

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There are not steps in the bridge so you can't walk up to the top unfortunately.

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Can be wet, slippy and very dark! Make sure that you have your lights! If you're on road tyres I would advise walking. Mountain and Gravel bikes are suitable to ride through.

2

0

AndyH
June 24, 2024, Drovers Return

Nice cafe, conveniently placed at the top of the gravel climb up from the Grand Union Canal! Indoor space isn't huge but there's plenty of outdoor seating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available around Northampton?

There are over 50 mountain bike trails around Northampton documented on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 17 easy, 36 moderate, and 5 difficult options to explore.

What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Northampton?

Northampton offers a diverse range of mountain biking terrain. You'll find dedicated facilities like the Northampton Bike Park with graded trails, extensive natural woodlands such as Salcey Forest with a mix of gentle slopes and technical sections, and picturesque gravel paths along the Grand Union Canal. The region also features country parks with varied landscapes suitable for different riding styles.

Are there any family-friendly mountain bike trails in Northampton?

Yes, Northampton has several options suitable for families. The Hunsbury Iron Age Hill Fort – Kislingbury Syndicate Lakes loop from Northampton is an easy route that could be a good starting point. Additionally, the Northampton Bike Park offers green and blue graded trails designed for beginners and younger riders. Places like Salcey Forest and Brixworth Country Park also provide extensive networks of well-maintained trails that are generally accessible.

Where can I find dedicated mountain biking facilities in Northampton?

The primary dedicated facility is the Northampton Bike Park, a 40-acre specialist park built on a former golf course. It features green, blue, red, and black graded trails, a skills area, and a dual track. While the park is free to use, paid parking helps with maintenance. You can find more information about the park at visitnorthamptonshire.co.uk. Irchester Country Park Bike Park also caters to downhill enthusiasts.

Are there any circular mountain bike routes around Northampton?

Many of the mountain bike trails around Northampton are circular. For example, the Northampton and Grand Union Canal Loop is a popular circular route offering scenic views. Another great option is the Brampton Valley Way – View of Pitsford Water loop from Northampton, which provides views of Pitsford Water.

What natural features or landmarks can I see along the mountain bike trails?

Northampton's trails often pass by significant natural and historical features. You can cycle along the historic Grand Union Canal, explore ancient woodlands like Salcey Forest, or enjoy views of reservoirs such as Pitsford Water. The Hunsbury Iron Age Hill Fort – Kislingbury Syndicate Lakes loop from Northampton even takes you past an Iron Age hill fort and the Kislingbury Syndicate Lakes.

Are there any challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders?

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 5 difficult-graded routes available. Additionally, the Northampton Bike Park features red and black graded trails designed for expert riders. Rockingham Forest also offers technical singletracks for those looking for a more demanding ride.

What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Northampton?

The mountain bike trails around Northampton are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 30 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, from dedicated bike parks to extensive natural woodlands, and the variety of routes suitable for different skill levels.

Are there any trails that go through Salcey Forest?

Yes, Salcey Forest is a popular destination for mountain bikers. The River at Preston Deanery – Salcey Forest loop from Northampton is a notable route that takes you through this enchanting woodland, offering a mix of well-maintained trails and breathtaking views.

Can I find longer mountain bike routes for extended rides?

Absolutely. For longer rides, consider routes like the Merry Tom Lane – Great Oxendon Tunnel loop from Northampton, which spans over 55 kilometers. Many of the moderate routes also offer significant distances, providing ample opportunity for extended mountain biking adventures.

Are there any country parks with mountain biking opportunities in the area?

Yes, several country parks in the Northamptonshire area offer excellent mountain biking. Brixworth Country Park allows cycling around Pitsford Water, and Daventry Country Park features diverse terrains. Sywell Country Park and Fermyn Woods Country Park also provide scenic pathways and woodlands suitable for cycling.

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