4.4
(30)
113
riders
32
rides
Mountain biking around South Newington offers exploration within the rolling hills of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds. The terrain features elevations rising from approximately 110 meters to over 150 meters, characterized by agricultural land and the River Swere. While dedicated technical trails are not prominent, the area provides a network of bridleways and unpaved segments suitable for off-road cycling. This landscape, composed of Lower Lias clay and Middle Lias marlstone, presents varied surfaces for mountain bike routes.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
5.0
(1)
7
riders
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.

Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
1
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
At the heart of many beautiful roads and climbs in the North Cotswolds
0
0
"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 1123ā53. 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
1
0
A lovely, peaceful stretch of the Oxford Canal running parallel with the River Cherwell.
0
0
Free parking is provided at Heyford Train Station for rail users only. However there are several, marked parking bays outside the boundary fence on what I took to be a public road. These too are free of charge. I got there at about 5.30pm and was able to find a space.
0
0
Surface firm in spring, though used by horses
0
0
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.
2
0
Iām going to second the gravel comment, if it has rained recently it can get a bit more gravel than road.
0
0
There are over 30 mountain bike trails around South Newington, offering a variety of routes to explore the rolling hills of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds.
The terrain around South Newington is characterized by rolling hills, with elevations typically ranging from 110 to over 150 meters. You'll encounter primarily agricultural landscapes, bridleways, and unpaved segments, often composed of Lower Lias clay and Middle Lias marlstone, providing varied surfaces for off-road cycling.
The trails around South Newington cater to various skill levels. You'll find 11 easy routes, 21 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for both casual riders and those seeking more of a challenge.
Yes, the area is rich in history and natural beauty. You can encounter ancient sites like The King Stone, The Rollright Stones Stone Circle, and The Whispering Knights. The routes also pass through scenic agricultural land and near the River Swere.
Beyond the trails, South Newington offers a glimpse into traditional English village life. You can visit the historic St Peter ad Vincula Church with its 14th-century wall paintings, or explore other nearby attractions such as Banbury Cross or Wroxton Abbey and Gardens. The village itself features charming 17th and 18th-century buildings constructed from local honey-coloured limestone.
While specific dedicated mountain bike parking isn't detailed, South Newington is a small village. Parking is generally available in designated village areas or near local amenities like 'The Duck on the Pond' pub, though it's always advisable to check local signage and be considerate of residents.
South Newington is a rural village, and public transport options might be limited. While local bus services may connect to larger towns, direct access to trailheads via public transport can be challenging. Planning your route in advance and checking local bus schedules is recommended.
Generally, permits are not required for mountain biking on public bridleways and byways in the South Newington area. However, always respect private land and adhere to any local signage regarding access restrictions.
Yes, there are 11 easy routes suitable for families. An example is the Madmarston Hill Roman Road ā Gallows Hill Viewpoint loop from Hook Norton, which is 14.3 miles (23.0 km) long and offers scenic views of the agricultural landscapes.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 20 reviews. Riders often praise the peaceful, rolling countryside, the variety of bridleways, and the opportunity to explore the picturesque Cotswold Hills away from more crowded areas.
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around South Newington are designed as loops. For instance, the Whichford War Memorial ā St George's Church loop from Sibford Gower is a 16.7 miles (26.9 km) circular trail through the Cotswold Hills.
Yes, South Newington has a local pub, 'The Duck on the Pond' (formerly the Wykeham Arms), which can be a great stop before or after your ride. Many routes pass through or near villages with similar amenities, offering opportunities for refreshment.
A popular moderate option is the Gallows Hill Viewpoint ā Track Leading to the Salt Way loop from Shutford. This 16.0 miles (25.7 km) trail navigates through the scenic North Oxfordshire countryside and typically takes about 2 hours to complete.


Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.