Family Cycle Trail

The most popular and convenient starting point for the Family Cycle Trail is the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre at Cannop. It offers ample parking, bike hire, toilets, and a café, making it a great base for your ride.

Yes, absolutely. This trail is specifically designed for families and beginners. It's graded as 'Green' (easy), mostly flat, and well-surfaced, making it ideal for novice cyclists, young children, and those new to off-road cycling. It's also suitable for adaptive bikes, tag-alongs, and trailers.

The trail is primarily an off-road, circular route with a generally flat and wide nature. It follows former railway lines, resulting in a mostly level and hard-surfaced gravel track. While generally easy, there are some short climbs and one notable long, steep downhill section if you cycle it clockwise.

As you cycle, you'll pass through beautiful forest scenery and historical sites. Highlights include picturesque spots like Cannop Ponds, the Mallards Pike Lake Café, and the Colliers Trail, Forest of Dean. You'll also see remnants of the forest's mining heritage, such as old colliery sites and disused railway stations, and the White Gates Sculpture Installation.

No, there are generally no permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Family Cycle Trail or other public trails within the Forest of Dean. However, parking at popular trailheads like the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre may incur a fee.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the Family Cycle Trail. Please ensure your dog is kept under control, preferably on a leash, to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all trail users and to protect local wildlife.

The trail is well-maintained with hard-surfaced gravel tracks, making it suitable for year-round riding. Spring offers beautiful bluebells, while autumn provides stunning foliage. Summer is popular, but can be busy. Winter rides are also possible, though conditions might be muddier after heavy rain.

Yes, the Family Cycle Trail is part of a broader network. It incorporates sections of the National Cycle Network Route 42 and the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail. There are also connecting routes and shortcuts, such as the Hicksters Way Loop, allowing for varied ride lengths and access from nearby towns.

Yes, along the route, you'll find optional 'skills zones' or 'skills loops'. These areas feature elements like berms, rollers, bridges, and rock gardens, providing a safe environment to develop off-road cycling techniques and boost confidence. There's also a newer 2km 'Old Bob's Trail' designed for beginners.

Yes, the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre at Cannop, a popular starting point, has a café. Further along the trail, you'll find the Mallards Pike Lake Café. There are also other cafes and pubs in nearby villages that can be accessed from the trail.

While the trail is generally easy, if you cycle it clockwise, be aware of one notable long, steep downhill section. Cycling counter-clockwise might make this section an uphill climb, which could be more challenging for some riders, especially families with younger children.