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.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
5.0
(2)
9
riders
36.1km
02:20
200m
200m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(11)
58
riders
36.2km
02:34
220m
220m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(5)
21
riders
42.7km
02:44
240m
240m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
16
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(6)
44
riders
55.5km
04:00
290m
290m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Nice start/end point for the Brampton Valley Way, Great ride with a pint to finish 😁
0
0
There are not steps in the bridge so you can't walk up to the top unfortunately.
0
0
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
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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0
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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