4.1
(11)
58
riders
10
rides
Mountain biking around Mountnessing offers off-road cycling opportunities through the Essex countryside. The area features a landscape characterized by woodlands, meadows, and views of Hanningfield Reservoir. While not traditional mountainous terrain, the routes provide a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces suitable for gravel and off-road cycling. This region provides diverse cycling experiences for various skill levels.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
3.8
(5)
18
riders
28.5km
01:37
220m
220m
This moderate 17.7-mile mountain biking loop near Brentwood takes you through Weald Country Park and Pole's Wood.
13
riders
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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1
riders
58.9km
03:28
400m
400m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
38.5km
02:47
280m
280m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
4
riders
14.2km
01:03
120m
120m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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I went down this trail yesterday 5 July 2025, coming from Kelvenden Hatch on a gravel bike. The trail through the forest was fine but as I neared the bottom of the hill my GPS indicated I was off route. As others have suggested the newish fence looks like it has been put in place to push you into a bog, which was dried up for me but only just after 4 months with little rain. It was also full of razor grass. It wasn't obvious which way to go, but I wasn't giving in and after some floundering around I managed to get through. Like the others ignoring the signs and lugging my bike across some quite deep ditches, which may be impassable in wet weather.
0
0
Heading out of Braintree you hit the main road after this point. Careful of the traffic!
0
0
Open 7 days a week from 7am to 3pm. Always a warm chatty welcome. Bike racks. Toilet. Excellent coffee and good selection of cakes as well as breakfasts and lunches. Highly recommend for a stop and refuel.
0
0
Blackmore village is a place to visit they have a great Tea room Homemade cakes made on the premises just across the road there is a little church rumour have it Henry the eighth went there
1
0
Nice garden to the side. Bike racks are a bit tucked away but there are plenty of places to prop your bike.
0
0
Mountnessing offers a selection of over 10 mountain bike trails, catering to various skill levels. These routes explore the diverse Essex countryside, featuring woodlands, meadows, and mixed paved and unpaved surfaces.
Yes, Mountnessing has 4 easy mountain bike trails that are great for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. These routes typically feature less challenging terrain and shorter distances, allowing riders to enjoy the scenery at a comfortable pace.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 2 difficult mountain bike trails around Mountnessing. One such route is the Riverside Footpath – Pleshey Village Pond loop from Shenfield, which covers over 83 km and includes extensive off-road sections and significant elevation changes.
Many of the mountain bike routes in Mountnessing are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Ingrebourne Hill summit – View of the Thames at Purfleet loop from Laindon, which offers a scenic circular ride through the countryside.
While Mountnessing's mountain biking is more geared towards off-road and gravel cycling, some of the easier routes can be suitable for families with older children or those comfortable with mixed terrain. Areas like Dagnam Park (The Manor), which is noted as family-friendly, may offer suitable sections for a more relaxed ride.
Mountain biking in Mountnessing offers diverse landscapes, including picturesque woodlands, open meadows, and scenic views of Hanningfield Reservoir. The routes often traverse the classic Essex countryside, providing a mix of natural beauty and rural charm.
Yes, you can discover several interesting points along the trails. The Hanningfield Reservoir Causeway offers stunning views, and you might also encounter historical sites like Chipping Ongar Castle Motte and Bailey. For a natural highlight, look out for the Great Prestons Lagoon Viewpoint.
The mountain bike trails in Mountnessing are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.4 stars from around 7 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, which includes a good mix of woodlands, meadows, and both paved and unpaved surfaces, offering a diverse cycling experience through the Essex countryside.
Yes, you can find charming spots to refuel. The Blackmore Tea Rooms is a popular highlight mentioned in some routes, offering a pleasant stop for refreshments. Many routes also pass through or near villages where you can find local pubs and cafes.
Mountnessing's trails can be enjoyed year-round, but the best season often depends on personal preference. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. While some routes may have unpaved sections that can get muddy in wetter conditions, the mixed terrain means there are usually rideable options even in winter.
Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many routes start from villages or designated car parks. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for information on recommended starting points and parking options, especially for longer or more remote trails.
While some starting points for routes around Mountnessing might be accessible by public transport, particularly those originating from larger towns like Shenfield or Brentwood, direct access to all trailheads can be limited. Planning your route in advance and checking local bus or train services to nearby towns is recommended.


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