4.4
(81)
475
riders
72
rides
Mountain biking around Horsell Common features diverse landscapes, including open heathland, woodlands with sandy tracks, and tranquil wetlands. The area encompasses approximately 830 acres, offering varied terrain for riders. While generally flat, some routes include modest elevation gains, characteristic of the Bagshot sands geology. This mix of environments provides a dynamic experience for mountain bikers.
Last updated: June 20, 2026
3.3
(3)
4
riders
10.4km
00:49
50m
50m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
3.5
(2)
28
riders
32.8km
02:13
110m
110m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(5)
16
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
15
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
2
riders
32.9km
01:58
190m
190m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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To a passerby, a mill pond like the one presented here might seem ordinary, but there is another point of view: For example, in the story world of Otfried Preußler (1923 to 2013), who became famous with the imaginative children's books he wrote, things look quite different: Here, such a mill pond is also the extremely exciting habitat of a water sprite family. His still popular book "Der kleine Wassermann" tells wonderful stories of the adventures experienced by the family's offspring. On an audio book CD, the water sprite mother sings her son to sleep for the winter: "Little water sprite, close your eyes and get some rest, I'll sit here for a while and watch you sleep. May your dreams guide you and touch you wonderfully, and when you wake up again, a new year will begin for you."
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The tow path in the Basingstoke canal, from Woking to the junction with the Wey, it is paved and smooth. The tow path in the Wey Navigation canal is more bumpy, roots etc. Apt for a gravel bike, perhaps not so for a road bike.
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Nice section of gravel along this section of the scenic River Wey Navigation Path The path is 20-mile (32 km) long altogether and is a continuous navigable route from the River Thames near Weybridge to Godalming
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Horsell Common is a large area of heathland and woodland located in Woking. It spans approximately 355 hectares and is one of the few remaining heathland landscapes in the region. It is open to the public for walking, wildlife watching, and other recreational activities.
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The Mill Pond at Coxes Lock is the largest on the Wey Navigation, built to control the water depth above 2.6 metres (8 feet 6 inches). The cascaded drop, which was originally one drop with a turning waterwheel, is recorded in some 19th-century sources.
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Excellent pub with a well known reputation, stopped here for a quiet drink. A really good rest point if your doing long distance along the canals and riverways into London from the south.
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Horsell Common offers a wide selection of mountain bike trails, with over 75 routes available for exploration. These range in difficulty from easy to challenging, ensuring options for various skill levels.
You'll find a diverse mix of terrain in Horsell Common. The area features open purple heathland, woodlands with sandy tracks characteristic of the Bagshot sands geology, and peaceful wetlands. This variety provides a dynamic and engaging experience for riders.
Yes, Horsell Common has trails suitable for all skill levels, including beginners and families. There are 14 easy routes available. For a gentle ride, consider the Riverside Path along the River Wey – Path Along the River Wey loop from Goldsworth Park, which is an easy 26.1 km path.
Horsell Common is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can visit The Sandpit, Horsell Common, famously known as the fictional Martian landing site in H.G. Wells' 'War of the Worlds'. Other notable features include Bronze Age Barrows, tranquil wetlands, and Danewell Pond. The area is also part of the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area, home to unique flora and fauna.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in Horsell Common are circular. A popular option is the Horsell Common – Horsell Common loop from Woking, a 10.9 km trail that takes about 51 minutes to complete and features varied terrain through woodlands and open heathland.
While specific parking areas for mountain biking are not detailed, Horsell Common is accessible, and visitors often find parking in designated areas around the common. The Heather Farm Café, located within the common, may offer parking facilities for its patrons.
Horsell Common is located near Woking, which has good public transport links, including a train station. From Woking, you can access various parts of the common. For detailed public transport information, it's best to check local bus routes or train schedules to Woking.
Yes, the Heather Farm Café is located within Horsell Common, offering a convenient spot for refreshments and amenities like toilets. It's a great place to stop before or after your ride.
Horsell Common can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn often offer pleasant conditions. During spring and summer (March to September), it's important to stay on main paths to protect ground-nesting birds like Nightjars and Woodlarks, which are easily disturbed.
The mountain bike routes in Horsell Common are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 70 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, including the quiet woodlands and open heathland, and the variety of trails suitable for different abilities.
Yes, for more experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 10 difficult routes available. You can find longer rides with significant elevation gain, such as the Lock 27 Picnic Area – Mytchett Lake Road Bridge loop from Woking, a moderate 32.8 km path that explores riverside paths and diverse landscapes.
Horsell Common is a haven for wildlife. You might spot various bird species, including Nightjar, Dartford Warbler, and Woodlark in the heathland, and reed warblers, kingfishers, and swallows near the wetlands. The common is also a hotspot for insects, with numerous species of bees, wasps, ants, and butterflies like the Silver Studded Blue.
Generally, you do not need a permit to mountain bike on the established trails within Horsell Common. However, it's always good practice to respect local signage and any specific regulations posted by the Horsell Common Preservation Society, which manages the area.
Horsell Common is generally dog-friendly, and many visitors enjoy bringing their dogs. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially during the ground-nesting bird season (March to September), and to clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for everyone.

