The best MTB trails around Bishops Cannings

There are over 100 mountain bike routes around Bishops Cannings, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. You'll find everything from easy canal paths to challenging downland rides.

The terrain around Bishops Cannings is diverse, featuring rolling chalk downlands, ancient woodlands, and tranquil river valleys. Many routes utilize the extensive network of bridleways and byways. Some sections, especially on the downlands, can be challenging and may require good fitness or even pushing your bike.

Yes, there are several easy routes. For a more relaxed ride, consider trails along the Kennet and Avon Canal, such as the Devizes White Horse – Devizes Wharf loop from Devizes or the shorter View from Roundway Down – Devizes Millennium White Horse loop from Devizes. These offer gentler gradients and picturesque scenery.

Many routes provide excellent views across the North Wessex Downs. The Ridgeway & St Alfred's Way loop from Beckhampton offers expansive downland vistas. For historical landmarks, consider routes that pass by the Avebury Stone Circle, Silbury Hill, or the West Kennet Long Barrow. The View from Roundway Down – Devizes Millennium White Horse loop from Devizes also offers great views from Roundway Down.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in the area are circular. Examples include the Ridgeway & St Alfred's Way loop from Beckhampton, the Devizes White Horse – Devizes Wharf loop from Devizes, and the Holloway Path – Hartmoor Hill loop from Devizes. These allow you to start and finish at the same point.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be great, but trails might be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for muddy conditions on some trails, especially after rain, and shorter daylight hours.

Many routes start from nearby towns like Devizes or Beckhampton, where public parking is available. The Smallgrain Picnic Site, northeast of Devizes on the road from Bishops Cannings to Quemerford, also offers ample parking and is a convenient starting point for exploring the area.

Many of the bridleways and byways are suitable for riding with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and under control. Always be mindful of livestock, especially on open downland, and keep dogs on a lead where necessary. The canal towpaths also offer a good option for riding with dogs.

The komoot community highly rates the mountain biking around Bishops Cannings, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 69 ratings. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, from rolling chalk downs to ancient woodlands, and the sense of adventure offered by the extensive network of bridleways. The historical landmarks and scenic viewpoints are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, the area offers challenging routes, particularly on the chalk downlands. The Holloway Path – Hartmoor Hill loop from Devizes is a moderate route with significant elevation gain. The Ridgeway National Trail, accessible from points like West Overton, offers long stretches of riding that can be physically demanding, with some portions requiring advanced skills or pushing your bike.

While Bishops Cannings itself is a small village, nearby towns like Devizes are better served by public transport. Many routes can be accessed from Devizes, making it a good base if you're relying on buses. Always check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes and timings to trailheads.

While specific pubs or cafes directly on every trail are rare, many routes pass through or near villages and towns like Devizes, which offer various options for refreshments. Planning your route to include a stop in one of these locations is recommended for a mid-ride break or post-ride meal.