A new signposted cycling trail around the Malvern Hills is ready to be explored by mountain bike.
The 19km circuit from North Hill to Black Hill and back is the third and final signposted cycling trail on the Hills to be provided by the Malvern Hills Trust.
The three trails, Short, Medium and Long are clearly signposted and take in both the open hilltops offering stunning views and the scenic wooded slopes of this iconic landscape.
Beck Baker, Community and Conservation Officer said “We’re delighted to announce the launch of our third waymarked cycling route around the Malverns.
“These trails provide cycling visitors with easy-to-follow routes along bridleways and permissive cycle paths without worrying about using a map or losing their way.
Cyclists are welcome
Mountain bikers are welcome to explore the wider Hills and for cyclists wishing to plan their own route, the Trust’s free walking and cycling map and guide provides clear information on the bridleways and permissive cycle paths open to riders.
“We know that we have a large number of visiting cyclists from surrounding areas including Worcester and Birmingham who may not know anything about the bridleway network on the Malvern Hills or this landscape’s important features that need protecting.
“Those who are new to the area will be able to experience and enjoy riding in this amazing landscape along the signposted trails knowing they’re on the right tracks.”
The Malvern Hills Trust has been working closely with a mountain biking working group made up of local riders on the Malverns by Mountain Bike project to encourage responsible riding on the Hills and Commons.
Beck added “We’re extremely grateful to local mountain bikers who’ve worked with us on the Malverns by Mountain Bike project, as well as other user groups for sharing information and advice.”
These routes have been carefully designed with the help of the local cyclists, the Trust’s Recreation Advisory Panel, Natural England and Worcestershire County Council.
The trails aren’t graded and although there may be some climbs and tougher sections, the routes are intended for leisurely rides. Cyclists wishing to ride single track or undertake downhill riding should visit alternative locations such as the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre, as the bridleways and permissive cycle access of the Malvern Hills offer little of this type of terrain.
‘We’ve got a fantastic legacy of mountain biking in this area, in part, thanks to the challenging climbs of the Hills, which has produced cycling stars including Tracey Mosely, Evie Richards, Liam Killeen and Hattie Harnden.”
Find out more
Route cards to accompany the trails, which include directions and further access advice, can be picked up from MHT offices, local Tourist Information Centres and local bike shops.
Electronic copies of these guides, GPX files of the routes and further information about the Malverns by Mountain Bike project can be found at www.malvernhills.org.uk/visiting/cycling .
