The best MTB trails around Greatham

Greatham offers a wide selection of mountain bike trails, with nearly 140 routes available. These range in difficulty from easy to difficult, catering to various skill levels.

The terrain around Greatham is diverse, characterized by rolling green hills, ancient woodlands, and heathland, all within the South Downs National Park. You'll encounter varied surfaces, including gravel tracks, natural sections with roots and rocks, and designated singletrack trails, particularly within Queen Elizabeth Country Park.

Yes, there are several family-friendly options. Queen Elizabeth Country Park (QECP) is an excellent choice, offering a 3-mile 'Blue' intermediate trail designed to be rollable and suitable for first-time trail mountain bikers. QECP also has mini wheels tracks and skills areas for children. For a more relaxed ride, consider routes like the Longmoor Ranges Fire Roads – Liss Riverside Railway Path loop from Liss, which is an easy 17.2 km trail.

Many trails in the South Downs National Park, including those around Greatham, are dog-friendly, especially bridleways and byways. However, it's essential to keep dogs under close control, particularly near livestock or in sensitive wildlife areas. Queen Elizabeth Country Park also welcomes dogs, but always check specific trail rules and signage for any restrictions.

Queen Elizabeth Country Park (QECP) is a primary hub for mountain biking and offers ample parking facilities. For other routes, parking may be available in village car parks or designated lay-bys, but it's always advisable to check specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.

The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You might encounter features like the Mill Lane Waterfall, the ancient Yew Tree at St. Mary’s Church, or the Torberry Hill Iron Age Hillfort. The trails also pass through picturesque woodlands and offer panoramic views across the Weald. You can also explore various lakes such as Buriton Church and Pond or Kingsley Pond.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, Queen Elizabeth Country Park offers a 'Red' advanced trail with technical sections, roots, rocks, and a significant drop. A more extensive and difficult route in the area is the QECP Blue Climbing Trail – Old Winchester Hill loop from Liss, which covers 70.9 km and includes significant elevation changes.

The South Downs National Park is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be great, but trails might be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions, especially in wooded areas, and shorter daylight hours.

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Greatham are designed as loops. For example, the Liss Forest, Iping Common and Harting Down loop is a popular moderate circular route covering 41.4 km. Another option is the Woolmer Ranges Gravel Track – Devil's Punch Bowl Trail loop from Greatham, a moderate 51.6 km path.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 180 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the scenic beauty of the South Downs National Park, and the well-maintained trails, particularly those within Queen Elizabeth Country Park, which offer a good mix of challenges and enjoyable flow.

Yes, the South Downs Way, a 100-mile National Trail, passes through Queen Elizabeth Country Park, which is easily accessible from Greatham. This provides extensive opportunities for cyclists to join sections of this long-distance route and explore the wider National Park.

Yes, Southern eBike Rentals operates at Queen Elizabeth Country Park, offering electric bike hire for both adults and children. This makes the trails accessible to a wider audience and provides an option if you don't have your own mountain bike.