The best MTB trails around Hovingham

There are over 15 mountain bike trails around Hovingham, offering a diverse range of experiences within the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

The trails around Hovingham cater to various skill levels. You'll find 1 easy route, 16 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for both beginners and experienced riders.

While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always explicit, the area offers routes suitable for various fitness and skill levels. Many of the moderate trails, especially those with gentler farmland paths and stone tracks, can be enjoyed by families with some riding experience. For example, the Coneysthorpe loop — Howardian Hills is described as suitable for various fitness levels.

You can expect a varied landscape, including well-wooded, undulating countryside, paths winding through agricultural landscapes, and sections along 170-meter high ridges. The terrain often features Jurassic limestone, pastures, extensive woodlands like Hood Grange Wood and Stittenham Wood, and a mix of gentle farmland paths, stone tracks, and woodland routes.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Hovingham are circular. Popular examples include the Coneysthorpe loop — Howardian Hills, the View of Rievaulx Abbey – Rievaulx Abbey loop from Helmsley, and the Coneysthorpe Chapel loop from Whitwell-on-the-Hill.

The trails often pass by or near significant historical and natural attractions. You might encounter features of the Castle Howard Estate, such as the New River Bridge or the Temple of Four Winds. Other nearby points of interest include the extensive Castle Howard itself, the ruins of Byland Abbey, and Kirkham Priory. The View of Rievaulx Abbey – Rievaulx Abbey loop from Helmsley offers views of historical landmarks and the surrounding countryside.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 20 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes within the Howardian Hills AONB, the mix of gentle farmland paths and challenging woodland routes, and the opportunity to explore scenic countryside and historical sites.

Yes, there is at least one difficult route for advanced riders. The Gallow Hill Descent – High Paradise Farm Tearoom loop from Oswaldkirk is a challenging 82.5 km trail with significant elevation gain, suitable for those with very good fitness and advanced skills.

Trail lengths vary significantly. For example, the Coneysthorpe Chapel loop from Whitwell-on-the-Hill is about 22.3 km (13.9 miles) and takes around 1 hour 51 minutes, while the Gallow Hill Descent – High Paradise Farm Tearoom loop from Oswaldkirk is 82.5 km (51.3 miles) and can take over 6 hours.

Yes, some routes extend towards areas offering views of the wider region. The View of the North York Moors – Cammon Stone loop from Nawton is a moderate 49.5 km trail specifically designed to showcase these scenic vistas.

The region is characterized by its location within the Howardian Hills AONB, featuring a well-wooded, undulating countryside with Jurassic limestone, pastures, and extensive woodlands. You'll encounter rolling hills, 170-meter high ridges, and serene natural spots like Oulston Reservoir. The eastern edge is marked by the River Derwent, flowing through the Kirkham Gorge.

Given the extensive woodlands and agricultural landscapes within the Howardian Hills AONB, there are good opportunities to observe local wildlife. Riders often report seeing various birds, deer, and other small mammals, especially in quieter woodland sections like Hood Grange Wood and Stittenham Wood.