4.0
(17)
72
riders
15
rides
Mountain biking around Epwell offers varied terrain across rolling ironstone hills and through scenic woodlands. The area is characterized by natural elevation changes, with some hills rising to 200 meters, providing diverse routes for mountain bikers. Part of Epwell lies within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, ensuring well-preserved landscapes for off-road cycling. Streams and countryside paths contribute to a network of mountain bike trails suitable for different skill levels.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
4.0
(2)
6
riders
49.6km
03:53
610m
610m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(1)
7
riders
25.7km
02:00
300m
300m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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23.8km
01:52
330m
330m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
26.6km
02:17
430m
430m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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At the heart of many beautiful roads and climbs in the North Cotswolds
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"The name "Brailes" is thought to originate either from the Old Welsh breg-lis - "hill court" - or the Old English byrgels - "burial place". Castle Hill Motte in the middle of the village is a natural knoll that was made higher in the Norman era to form the motte of a motte-and-bailey castle. Its construction may have been ordered by Roger de Beaumont, who was Earl of Warwick from 1123–53. Earthworks of both the motte and the bailey survive, and the site is a Scheduled Monument. Brailes was the home of William de Brailes, a 13th-century medieval painter of illuminated manuscripts. Of the many artists who painted such manuscripts, William is one of only two whose name has been recorded. It was also the birthplace of Thomas de Brayles (died c.1340), a senior judge and Crown official of the early fourteenth century, whose highest office was Chancellor of the Irish Exchequer. On the other side of Stocks Hill is Brailes House, the former home to the Sheldon family. The Sheldons have held the manor of Brailes since 1547." Source: Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brailes
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The George Inn at Brailes is a traditional 16th century Cotswold pub that serves up a delicious range of traditional and continental food and local Hooky beers. The pub has a number of cosy rooms as well as a large beer garden and pool table.
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This is the location of the Battle of Edgehill, a pitched battle of the First English Civil War occurring on Sunday 23rd October 1642. A detailed information board stands here describing how the event unfolded, offering a fascinating window into the area's past.
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I’m going to second the gravel comment, if it has rained recently it can get a bit more gravel than road.
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Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the beautiful Long Compton Woods in The Cotswolds AONB. The woods are made up of Broadleaved and conifer trees with a lovely understory of wildflowers and seasonal bluebells.
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This beautiful park in Broughton offers serene countryside views across lush vibrant green countryside. As you run through this park you'll be treated to sights across to Broughton Castle, a magnificent medieval fortified manor house.
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There are over 15 mountain bike routes around Epwell, offering a variety of experiences. These trails range from easy to moderate difficulty, ensuring options for different skill levels to explore the rolling ironstone hills and scenic woodlands.
You can expect varied terrain, characterized by rolling ironstone hills, some rising to 200 meters, which provide natural elevation changes. The trails often pass through diverse woodlands and countryside paths, with parts of the area falling within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, ensuring picturesque and well-preserved landscapes.
Yes, Epwell offers several easy mountain bike routes. For instance, the Madmarston Hill Roman Road – Gallows Hill Viewpoint loop from Hook Norton is an easy 14.3-mile trail that takes about 1 hour 39 minutes to complete, leading through varied countryside. There are 6 easy routes in total, making them suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride or for family outings.
Many routes offer scenic views, particularly those that traverse the rolling ironstone hills and parts of the Cotswolds AONB. The Gallows Hill Viewpoint – Track Leading to the Salt Way loop from Shutford is a moderate 16.0-mile path known for its views from Gallows Hill and historical tracks. Another option is the Gallows Hill Viewpoint – Track Leading to the Salt Way loop from Epwell, which also offers great vistas.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Epwell are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular example is the Brailes Hill loop, a moderate 30.8-mile trail with significant elevation changes. The Whichford War Memorial – St George's Church loop from Sibford Gower is another moderate circular option, covering 16.7 miles.
The mountain bike routes in Epwell are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the natural beauty of the Cotswolds AONB, and the variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels.
Yes, the Epwell area is rich in history and natural beauty. Along or near some routes, you might encounter historical sites like the Battle of Edgehill Site or religious buildings such as the All Saints' Church, Burton Dassett. The Edge Hill Climb from Kineton is also a notable feature in the landscape.
The varied countryside and extensive network of trails around Epwell are generally suitable for outdoor activities with dogs. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially when passing through farmland or areas with livestock, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions on individual paths.
Epwell is a village with local amenities. While specific cafes or pubs directly on every trail are not detailed, the village itself and surrounding areas offer options for refreshments. Many routes are designed to pass through or near villages where you can find places to stop for a break or a meal.
The rolling ironstone hills and woodlands of Epwell offer enjoyable mountain biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. While trails can be ridden in summer, be mindful of warmer weather. In winter, some paths might become muddy, especially after rain, but the natural elevation changes still offer a good challenge.
While specific parking facilities for mountain bikers are not extensively detailed, Epwell is a village that typically offers local parking options. Many routes start from or pass through villages where public parking or roadside parking might be available. It's advisable to check specific starting points for individual routes for the most convenient parking.


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