Malvern Hills Long Mountain Bike Trail

The Malvern Hills Long Mountain Bike Trail is approximately 19.3 kilometers (12 miles) long. It generally takes around 2 hours to 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

This trail is classified as 'moderate' by komoot, but trail research indicates it's considered 'difficult' or requires 'advanced riding skills' and 'good fitness'. It's not recommended for beginners due to its challenging technical climbs, descents, and significant elevation changes. Some sections may even require you to push your bike.

The terrain is primarily rock-based, which helps keep it rideable even in wetter conditions, though fallen leaves can make it slick. You'll encounter varied surfaces, including scenic woodlands, steep hills with bridleways, sweeping cross-country sections, and technical climbs and descents. It passes through notable features like Berrington Quarry.

The trail is renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views. You'll get fantastic vistas across Herefordshire and Worcestershire, and from elevated points like Pinnacle Hill, you can enjoy stunning 360-degree views. On clear days, it's even possible to see towards Wales. The route combines riding through open hilltops with scenic wooded slopes.

Yes, the trail passes by several interesting spots. You'll ride near Earnslaw Quarry Lake. Additionally, you'll find Bennetts at British Camp, which offers facilities and refreshments, a short distance from the Black Hill car park.

While the exact starting point can vary, the route is designed to be accessible. A good option for parking and amenities is near British Camp, which is a short distance from the Black Hill car park. This area also offers refreshments.

Thanks to its rock-based terrain, the trail remains rideable for much of the year, even allowing for winter riding. However, fallen leaves can make sections slick in autumn and winter. For the best conditions and clearest views, late spring to early autumn is generally ideal, avoiding the wettest periods.

The Malvern Hills Long Mountain Bike Trail is located within the Malvern Hills National Landscape. Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the bridleways and permissive cycle paths for mountain biking. However, parking at some car parks may incur a fee.

While the Malvern Hills generally welcome dogs, specific rules may apply to mountain bike trails and areas of conservation. It's always best to keep dogs under close control, preferably on a lead, especially around livestock, wildlife, and other trail users. Be mindful of the challenging terrain and your dog's fitness for a long, difficult ride.

Yes, the Malvern Hills Long Mountain Bike Trail is one of three waymarked routes developed by the Malvern Hills Trust. It begins by following the Malvern Hills Medium Mountain Bike Trail before diverging and later rejoining it. You'll also find sections that overlap with the Three Choirs Way (Malvern Hills) and the Geopark Way.

Yes, refreshments are available at Bennetts at British Camp, which is conveniently located a short distance from the Black Hill car park. This is a good spot to refuel during or after your ride.