Cycling & bike hire at Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire

Create your own adventure following the epic forest tracks in the Forest of Dean. Perfect for an afternoon of cycling or a day of mountain biking. To make your cycling holidays easy, pre-book your bikes when you book your cabin and let us take care of the rest. Then simply drop into the Forest Retreat and collect your bikes along with a handy Walking and Cycling Trails leaflet. Try easy starter trails or challenge yourself with a longer route. We recommend the circular 8.5km route that meets the River Wye at Symonds Yat Rock known for its spectacular views. Discover more ideas for cycling and mountain biking in the Forest of Dean…

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Experience a rush of adrenaline

The famous Verderers’ Trail in the Forest of Dean is 10.5km of breath-taking mountain biking with lots of technical challenges. Take on the ‘Iron Chicken and ‘Blue String Pudding’ before the final thrilling descent or traverse The Freeminer Trail for a more advanced test of your skills. This route is ideal for experienced cyclists with hairpin bends, switchback climbs and varied single-track. Look out for a few surprises, the volunteers who maintain it are constantly upgrading this exciting 7km stretch so there’s always something new to discover. 

A riverside cycle

This beautiful route from Monmouth to Goodrich is cycling in the Forest of Dean at its best. Straddling the border between England and Wales, the Peregrine Path takes in castles, ancient towns, the River Wye, King Arthur’s Cave and the nesting Peregrine Falcons. Part road and part traffic-free this 13km trail meanders through some of Britain’s most spectacular scenery and is part of the 45km Sustrans Route 423.

A great way to explore the forest

Specially surfaced for easy cycling, this 14km waymarked circular route is suitable for all ages and abilities. Another route that overlaps slightly is Coleford to Parkend and Cannop Ponds. It’s 17.7km one way, ending at the wildlife haven of Cannop Ponds. You can head back the same way or come back along the Speech House Road. Either way, be prepared for some uphill cycling.

Unbeatable countryside views

The Three Rivers circular route is another cycle route that incorporates the Peregrine Path. The route, mostly along Herefordshire lanes, connects Hereford, Ross on Wye, Monmouth and Hay on Wye and the three rivers are the Wye, the Monnow and the Dore. Pick up this 137km route at Symonds Yat. The National Cycle Network route 42 is another good stretch, which takes in the lovely countryside between Hay on Wye and Chepstow. There are some challenging climbs but the rewards are views that will remain in your heart forever.

Your woodland base for a UK staycation

Nestled deep in the Forest of Dean, our log cabin lodges are in a prime location for cycling and biking enthusiasts, with many trails starting right at your feet. After a day in the great outdoors, soothe your muscles in your own personal hot tub and savour the simplicity of sleeping under the stars. A great way to get refreshed for another day exploring the forest trails.

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