Road, mountain & BMX biking

There are many places across the county that cyclists like to go to for specific types of cycling or that have been designed for more specialist riding.

Road cycling or touring

Northamptonshire is a very rural county and, as such, it is blessed with a huge array of quiet country lanes and byways that are perfect for stretching the legs on a longer road ride. Whilst it is always wise to plan your route beforehand, road cycling is arguably the best way of exploring parts of the Northamptonshire countryside that you have never been to before or even know existed.

Not sure where to start in finding good road routes? The Northampton branch of the Cyclists Touring Club (CTC), have an all-year-round programme of rides that new riders are welcome to join on a trial basis. Or by joining a cycling club you will discover good cycling routes in the company of others.

Of course, many of you will already have favourite routes and we are always keen to hear the best. Send them to us via Twitter or Facebook and we will share them.

Mountain biking

The county is criss-crossed with a network of bridleways and byways along which are all legal to cycle on and many of which can make for excellent mountain bike trails. Our interactive mapping page shows details of bridleways countywide (select the Public Right of Way layer, under Transport and Streets).

The Forestry Commission’s Wakerley Wood boasts the 4km Scar Tree Trail, which is a blue-graded single track mountain bike trail. Bike hire is available at nearby Fineshade Wood.

Harlestone Firs woods near Northampton also allows cycling along its trails, and is a great place for beginners to try out a spot of off-road cycling.

BMX

Many of the county’s towns have BMX and skate parks that are designed specifically for practicing skills and tricks, including the hugely popular Radlands Plaza near Midsummer Meadow in Northampton.

On a much larger scale, Northamptonshire boasts the internationally renowned Adrenaline Alley. Based in Corby, it features an almost bewilderingly huge array of ramps and trails, suitable for anyone from beginners up to pro-level BMX riders.