Castles, rolling rivers and pub stops for refreshments, are what await the adventurous mountain biker in England. The West-Midland area covers Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Gloucestershire, Hereford and Shropshire. And like the rest of England, mountain biking trails offer something for everyone, from the family bike route to race routes for experienced riders.
Season
Due to the very mild weather in the midlands, the mountain bike season typically runs year round. Some routes may be closed on holidays so check ahead of time and plan accordingly. Be prepared for some routes to be muddy or under water after a hard rain.
Castles, Rolling Rivers and Market Towns
The 16-mile route in Warwickshire starts and ends at the castle in Kenilworth, Warwickshire. Maps are posted in the car parks. Follow the farm tracks down to the canal at Hatton, then along the canal toward Leamington Spa before following the road back to the castle in Kenilworth. The majority of the tracks are graded, and a few cross farmer's fields. Nearby castles at Warwick and Kenilworth and the River Avon make this a picturesque route.
For the Beginner
The Wyre Forest routes are perfect for the beginner or for families. The trails are marked clearly, and both start from the Visitor Center. Follow the green circular route markers for the family route. It uses forest roads to take you through a varied landscape including old oaks--think "Lord of the Rings". For the nature lover, the trail gives you an close-up view of woodland birds and plants.
The Blue Trail is the longer of the two trails, but is still an easy 4.75 miles. It takes you through ancient oak woodland, along the disused railway line and back up to the Visitor Center.
Army Bomb Holes and More
Hopwas Woods in Tamworth, Staffordshire has a mixture of mountain bike riding consisting of natural single track, dirt tracks and some short steep descents. Because the army also uses the area to train, there are a couple of small bomb holes that may be covered with leaves. You need to explore and get to know the place a bit to get the best out of it. Signs at the entrance warn riders if the army is in training.
Something Unique in Shropshire
Long Mynd is a 14.5 mile route with a series of hills with steep gullies known as Batches. Local trail guides can be hired at The Shropshire Hills Mountain Bike and Outdoor Pursuit Centre to ensure you have a safe, yet exciting time. For those up to a challenge, there is orienteering course with 15 markers posted around the Long Mynd area.
For something truly unique, finish the day by staying in a cozy camping pod in Shropshire. The 8- by 9-foot wooden pods are insulated with sheep's wool and are set among the rolling hills near Church Stretton.
Classes, Competitions and Trophies
Racing competitively is a great way to showcase your skills as a mountain biker. A trailquest is a mountain bike orienteering event, and is currently the fastest growing branch of cycling, on- or off-road, in the UK. Mountain bikers can take classes through the Midland Trailquests club or compete in races. Competitors come from all age ranges and both sexes. Riding skills as well as planning and navigation are what makes the rider successful in a race. Events are posted on the official Web site and trophies are awarded to the best riders.
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