4.6
(6)
26
riders
3
rides
Mountain biking around Capheaton offers routes through a landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense forest tracks, and varied unpaved surfaces. The area features notable geological formations like Shaftoe Crags and provides views from locations such as the Simonside Hills. Riders can expect a mix of gravel tracks and dirt roads, typical of the Northumberland countryside.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
5.0
(1)
14
riders
34.8km
03:05
570m
570m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(2)
8
riders
45.8km
02:57
480m
480m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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5.0
(1)
2
riders
15.9km
01:24
170m
170m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
2
riders
24.8km
02:14
310m
310m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Good trails to ride on, great views on a sunny day. Can either include as part of a Rothbury/Simonside ride, or head over to Harwood Forest
0
0
Top of the Whitefield Trail. Tremendous descent down to Hepple. Some pretty lumpy gravel in places, finishes on a meadow track. Doable on a gravel bike I guess but wider tyres would make for a better ride
0
0
Classic Northumberland cycling cafe. Tasty food reasonably priced, top cake
0
0
Grassy tracks on the Bolam side, more gravelly western. The section in the Nick is quite technical, lots of boulders. Great track end to end
0
0
Tremendous descent, would be a tough climb in places
0
0
Mountain bike trails in the Capheaton area range from easy to moderate. You'll find options like the Rough Gravel Track – Rough Dirt Road loop from Harwood, which is considered easy, alongside several moderate routes that offer more challenge.
The trails vary in length and duration, catering to different preferences. For example, the easy Rough Gravel Track – Rough Dirt Road loop from Harwood is about 15.8 km and takes around 1 hour 24 minutes. Longer, moderate routes like the Whitefield Trail – Viewpoint on Simonside Hills loop from Harwood extend to 34.8 km, typically requiring about 3 hours 6 minutes to complete.
Yes, there are options suitable for families and beginners. The Rough Gravel Track – Rough Dirt Road loop from Harwood is an easy-rated trail, offering a good introduction to mountain biking on varied unpaved surfaces without being overly demanding.
The Capheaton area features a diverse landscape for mountain biking, characterized by rolling hills, dense forest tracks, and varied unpaved surfaces. Riders will encounter a mix of gravel tracks and dirt roads, typical of the Northumberland countryside, with some routes exploring distinctive craggy terrain like Shaftoe Crags.
Yes, all the featured mountain bike routes around Capheaton are circular. This includes popular options such as the Shaftoe Crags loop from Kirkwhelpington and the Whitefield Trail – Viewpoint on Simonside Hills loop from Harwood, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
Several trails offer excellent viewpoints. The Whitefield Trail – Viewpoint on Simonside Hills loop from Harwood provides expansive views from the Simonside Hills. Additionally, the area around Shaftoe Crags offers distinctive craggy landscapes to explore.
Beyond the trails, the Capheaton area is rich with natural and historical attractions. You can explore beautiful lakes such as Colt Crag Reservoir and Bolam Lake. Historic sites like St Oswald's Church, Heavenfield, and local cafes like Capheaton Tea Room are also nearby.
The mountain biking experience around Capheaton is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 6 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, including rolling hills and forest tracks, and the options available for different ability levels.
Yes, the region is known for its dense forest tracks. The View of Forest Tracks – View of Northumberland Forest loop from Harwood is specifically designed to showcase the area's woodlands and offers scenic views through the Northumberland Forest.
There are several mountain bike trails available around Capheaton, offering a range of experiences. Our guide highlights four distinct routes, from easier gravel paths to more challenging moderate options, all well-regarded by the komoot community.
Northumberland's weather can be variable. While mountain biking is possible year-round, spring and autumn often provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer offers longer daylight hours, but trails might be busier. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially during winter when conditions can be more challenging.


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