Epping forest is great for mountain biking especially if you live in or around London.
The terrain is rooty and is prone to being quite muddy (OK very muddy).
There are no end of MTB friendly natural trails to describe so best hook up with someone who knows it or just get out there and explore.
Trails (all ungraded and natural)
- It has only natural routes on offer as the city of London corporation does not endorse any building. There is no shortage though of natural singletrack here.
- It is not too steep and so works well for beginners (in the dry). There are some places with natural features for jumps and drops but they are not too easy to find. If you learn your way around you can put together a not half decent intermediate ride. It's also big so great for training.
- A good beginners ride is below and starts at the south side of Epping forest. It is easily accessible by train (Chingford station is a stones throw away). It starts from a car park which sits opposite a golf course and close to the junction with A1069. From Chingford Station turn right up Station Road for 200m and then take the second left into Bury Road. The first entrance to this car park can be found 150m up here on the right.
- You can access the detailed route from here
- Another start point for other good mtb riding at Epping Forest is from the top at High Beach which has a cafe hut (famous bread pudding) as well as a decent pub, a visitors center and toilet. Another good place to ride is from High Beach by the the tea hut. It's at the junction of Fairmead Road and Cross Roads, and in a clearing on Nursery Road close to the Epping Forest Visitor's Centre. At the latter you will also find the King's Oak pub and hotel.
Cycle Clubs and Groups
- Kids MTB club meets sat morning. Contact Fabrizio Tel. 01992 564567 email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
- Some good groups to hook up with are MBR Over 35 and or the Herts MTB group
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