The best gravel rides around Philipshill Wood
4.6
(14)
69
riders
14
rides
Gravel biking around Philipshill Wood offers routes through ancient woodland and gentle rolling hills within the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The terrain includes a network of woodland paths and sections of historic trackways. This area provides diverse landscapes suitable for various fitness levels, characterized by mature beech and oak trees. The routes often feature mild elevation changes, making them accessible for gravel cyclists.
Best gravel bike trails around Philipshill Wood
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Woodland…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
4.5
(2)
5
riders
24.7km
01:43
230m
230m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
4
riders
29.6km
01:52
190m
190m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
9
riders
23.3km
01:43
50m
50m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
14
riders
15.3km
00:58
60m
60m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
53.0km
03:18
370m
360m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
About 1922, the land between the River Colne and the canal was taken over by Rickmansworth Gravel Company. Building in the capital was booming and gravel was in demand. Extraction at the site began and the resulting pit became Stocker's Lake. The original Wembley stadium was built at around this time and many have since speculated on the possibility of a Wembley Connection? Dredging and gravel extraction continued until the 1940s. In 1947 Rickmansworth and Uxbridge Valley Water Company purchased Stocker's Lake (an area of 93.7 acres) for £5000 as the dredging agreement had expired. This was to protect the aquifer and pumping sources at Stocker's and Springwell. The company became Rickmansworth Water Company in 1985 and later part of Three Valleys Water Company, eventually Affinity Water, the present owners. In the 1970s Stocker’s Lake became a nature reserve and day to day management was assigned by the water company to Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust.
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The land on which Stocker's Lake now stands was once part of Stocker's Farm which is still there today. Records from 1427 show that the farm already existed and was owned by John Stockere or Stocker. In 1861, Stocker's House was built for the Corporation of London to house the Collector of Coal Dues on the Grand Union Canal. Stocker's House cost £850 to build and the first tenant was Mr. Charles Browton. The dues he collected were, for example, 4 shillings per ton of wine and 12 pence a ton of coal. However with the railways becoming increasingly popular it was decided to sell the house and in 1869 Lord Ebury offered £300
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Parkrun here every Saturday 9am, get there by 8.30am or the car park gets tricky. All other times the parking is easy 😉
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The Ebury Way is a 3.5-mile (5.6 km) rail trail in Hertfordshire between Watford and Rickmansworth. The route crosses the Grand Union Canal and three rivers: the River Colne, the River Chess and the River Gade. Its origin as the Watford and Rickmansworth Railway means that it is wide and largely flat. It forms part of National Cycle Route 61
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The Ebury Way is a flat, traffic-free cycle path between Rickmansworth and Watford. Shaded for hot days and dotted with scenic bridges, it also features a wooden hut café at Batchworth Lock (closed Mondays and Tuesdays) – ideal for a bacon sandwich by the canal. Keep an eye out for quirky touches like George Michael street art!
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The area around Uxbridge Lock was home to various industries, including a flour mill formerly owned by Allied Mills and later by William King. William King named the mill "Kingsmill," which is still used as a bread brand.
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The area around Uxbridge Lock was home to various industries, including a flour mill formerly owned by Allied Mills and later by William King. William King named the mill "Kingsmill," which is still used as a bread brand.
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Multiple pump tracks and very short xc course with jumps
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails around Philipshill Wood?
The gravel bike trails around Philipshill Wood feature a mix of ancient woodland paths, gentle rolling hills, and historic trackways. The terrain is generally accessible for various fitness levels, with mild elevation changes, making it suitable for gravel cycling.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or families in Philipshill Wood?
Yes, Philipshill Wood offers several easy gravel routes perfect for beginners or family outings. For example, the Black Jack's Mill loop from Rickmansworth is an easy 14.5-mile path with gentle gradients, ideal for a relaxed ride.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Philipshill Wood?
Philipshill Wood is beautiful year-round, but a particularly stunning time to visit is from late April to mid-May when the woodland floor is carpeted with bluebells. This offers a truly picturesque riding experience amidst the mature beech and oak trees.
Are there any historical landmarks or natural features to look out for on the trails?
Absolutely. Philipshill Wood is rich in history and natural beauty. You can discover old earthworks, remains of sawpits, chalk pits, and charcoal burning earths. The ancient hedgerows are estimated to be around 900 years old, and Old Shire Lane on the eastern edge is believed to have marked the historic boundary between Anglo-Saxon kingdoms. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife like tawny owls and muntjac deer.
How long do gravel bike rides typically take in this area?
Ride durations vary depending on the route and your pace. For instance, the Woodland Path – Bridleway to Chorleywood loop from Chalfont St Peter, a moderate 15.6-mile trail, typically takes about 2 hours 4 minutes to complete. Shorter, easier routes will take less time, while longer, moderate ones like the Ebury Way – Belsize Hamlet loop from Amersham (32.8 miles) can take over 4 hours.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes available?
Yes, many of the gravel routes around Philipshill Wood are designed as loops, offering convenient circular rides. Examples include the Black Jack's Mill loop from Rickmansworth and the Ebury Way – River Colne loop from Rickmansworth, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Philipshill Wood?
The gravel biking routes in Philipshill Wood are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the beauty of the ancient woodland, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable experience.
Can I access Philipshill Wood by public transport for cycling?
While Philipshill Wood itself is nestled in a natural area, nearby towns like Rickmansworth and Amersham offer public transport links. From these points, you can connect to routes that lead into or around the wood, such as the Ebury Way – Ebury Way Cycle Path loop from Rickmansworth.
Are there options for longer, more challenging gravel rides?
For those seeking a longer and more challenging ride, there are moderate routes that extend further into the Chilterns. The Ebury Way – Belsize Hamlet loop from Amersham is a good example, covering over 32 miles with more significant elevation changes, offering a more demanding experience.
Are dogs allowed on the gravel bike trails in Philipshill Wood?
Philipshill Wood is generally dog-friendly, but it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially given the presence of wildlife and other trail users. Please ensure you follow any local signage regarding dogs on trails.
Where can I find parking for gravel biking near Philipshill Wood?
Parking options are available in the vicinity of Philipshill Wood and surrounding villages. It's advisable to check local parking facilities in areas like Chalfont St Peter or Rickmansworth, which serve as starting points for many popular routes.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the trails for a break?
While Philipshill Wood itself is a natural area, the nearby towns and villages in the Chilterns offer various cafes and pubs where you can take a break, refuel, and enjoy refreshments after your ride. Many are accustomed to welcoming cyclists.
Most popular routes around Philipshill Wood
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