The best MTB trails around Great and Little Chishill

There are over 30 mountain bike trails around Great and Little Chishill, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These routes traverse the region's unique chalk escarpments and gravelly hills, providing diverse terrain for cyclists.

Yes, the area offers several routes suitable for beginners and families. Out of the 31 available trails, 14 are rated as easy. These often utilize the extensive network of bridleways and quiet country lanes, providing a gentler introduction to mountain biking in the region.

You can expect varied terrain, including chalk escarpments, rolling hills, and sections of 'gravelly hill' geology. The region is known for its extensive network of bridleways and unpaved trails, such as the Ashwell Street Byway, which offers a mix of dirt and gravel surfaces. As the highest point in Cambridgeshire, routes often feature significant elevation changes.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are difficult routes available. One such option is the View of Wimpole Estate – Ashwell Street Byway loop from Shepreth, a demanding 61.6-mile (99.2 km) path that incorporates the unpaved Ashwell Street Byway and features significant elevation changes.

The trails often pass through areas with interesting geology, including chalk escarpments. You might also encounter sections of the ancient Icknield Way. The iconic Great Chishill Windmill, an open trestle post mill, serves as a distinctive landmark and a scenic spot for a break. Additionally, parts of the expansive parkland around Audley End House are freely accessible and offer further exploration opportunities.

Many of the mountain bike routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Icknield Way Royston Loop is a moderate 25.3-mile (40.7 km) circular trail following parts of the historic Icknield Way.

The mountain bike trails in Great and Little Chishill are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.8 stars from over 20 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the extensive network of bridleways, and the scenic views offered by the region's rolling hills and open countryside.

Yes, the Ashwell Street Byway is explicitly suitable for mountain bikes and gravel bikes. This unpaved, grassy trail follows part of an old Roman Road and is a popular dirt/gravel road trail, approximately 2.1 miles (3 km) long, offering a traffic-free connection and a 'stunning single track through the trees'.

The varied terrain, including chalk and gravelly hills, generally makes the trails enjoyable across multiple seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While winter conditions can vary, the unpaved nature of many trails means they can be ridden, though some sections might be muddier after heavy rain.

Beyond the most popular trails, you can explore routes like the Newport to Debden Byway – Downhill Forest Trail loop from Arkesden, a moderate 21.7-mile (34.9 km) trail, or the Icknield Way Wheat Field Path – Littlebury Green Bridleway loop from Heydon, which is a moderate 38.9-mile (62.6 km) route.

While specific pubs directly on every trail are not listed, the presence of a 'Windmill Cycling Club' in Great & Little Chishill suggests a cycling-friendly environment. Many routes pass through or near villages, offering opportunities to find local pubs or cafes for refreshments. For instance, the Therfield Village Green – Fox and Duck Pub, Therfield loop from Royston specifically highlights a pub stop.