Epping Forest

The largest public open space in the area, Epping Forest covers almost 6,000 acres – touching Manor Park in East London and stretching down to Essex.

You can ride to the edge of the forest, or get a train to Chingford Station, which is right next door.

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The trails are all natural, but there are plenty of routes you can follow, such as this this 7.5 mile loop.  There are also regular group and guided rides – you can see what’s happening and when here.   

If you don’t have a bike, then there’s no need to worry – Epping MTB have teamed up with local cycle hire provider Go Further Cycling and you can rent from a fleet of Kona hardtails. 

Hainault Forest

Located around 20 miles form central London, and just over the road from Redbridge Cycling Facility, Hainault is a self-contained forest with plenty of single-track and some testing ups and downs to keep you entertained. The ground tends to stay drier than its next door neighbor in Epping, too – and between trails, riders are allowed on the paved paths. 

The nearest underground is Fairhop Station and Chadwell Heath train station is just 1.4 miles away.

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The Cycle Centre itself does have some purpose built tracks which could provide a nice warm-up area before you hit the forest, too.

Lee Valley VeloPark

Ok – so admittedly you won’t be exploring far and wide, but if you’re beginning your journey on the mountain bike, and after some dedicated skills training, the trails at Lee Valley VeloPark might be right up your street…

The VeloPark, close to Stratford Station, is now home to 5 miles of dedicated trails in total, with blue, red and black loops available. It’s just £5 to pay and ride, or you can book onto a beginner or improver session – check out the details here.

Parking is free for four hours if you’re using the centre, and whilst there, you might want to take a look at the BMX area, velodrome, road route or VeloStudio for indoor training!

Check out this video to whet your appetite…

Happy riding! If you’re looking for a testing ride to aim towards this summer, check out these ten epic off-road rides, we’re sure you’ll find one that takes your fancy.