Wendover Woods loop from Aylesbury

This mountain bike route typically takes around 4 hours and 33 minutes to complete. This duration is an estimate and can vary based on your riding pace, fitness level, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The Wendover Woods loop from Aylesbury is rated as moderate. It generally requires good fitness and advanced riding skills due to its length and varied terrain. While there are easier trails in the broader Wendover area, this specific loop presents a good challenge.

You'll encounter a diverse mix of surfaces, including road, path, singletrack, cycleway, and street, with a significant portion being unpaved. Expect classic fast, rooty Chilterns singletrack with an undulating profile and noticeable roots. The trails are 'fast and furious' when dry but can become 'sticky and slippery' in winter.

The route passes several interesting points. You'll ride through areas like Crong Valley Path and experience the Pulpit Wood singletrack. You'll also pass by Marsworth Reservoir and have the opportunity to stop at Rumsey's Chocolaterie.

The best time to ride this loop is during drier months, typically spring to autumn, when the trails are 'fast and furious'. During winter, the trails can become 'sticky and slippery', making for a more challenging and potentially less enjoyable ride.

No specific permits are required to ride this mountain bike loop. While Wendover Woods itself is part of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, there are no entrance fees for accessing the trails.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails in Wendover Woods and the surrounding Chiltern Hills. However, it's always best to keep them under control, especially when passing other trail users or wildlife, and to check for any specific local signage regarding leash requirements.

Since this loop starts from Aylesbury, you would typically look for parking options within or on the outskirts of Aylesbury that allow for a full day's parking. For direct access to Wendover Woods facilities, there are paid parking areas available there, though this route starts further afield.

Aylesbury is well-served by public transport. You can reach Aylesbury by train or bus. From Aylesbury, local bus services, such as the 300 bus route, can take you towards Wendover, providing access points closer to the Wendover Woods section of the loop. Check local timetables for the most current information.

Yes, this route incorporates sections of several other official trails. You'll find yourself on parts of the Icknield Way Cycle Trail, the Grand Union Canal (Aylesbury Arm) Walk, the North Bucks Way, and the Midshires Way, among others, as you navigate the loop.

Wendover Woods is a well-equipped destination, offering facilities such as waymarked trails, a cafe, and restrooms. For those looking for more adrenaline, the adjacent Aston Hill Bike Park provides dedicated downhill trails and a pump track.