The best MTB trails around Pittington

There are over 60 mountain bike trails around Pittington, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. These routes traverse rolling hills, river valleys, and converted railway lines throughout the County Durham area.

Yes, Pittington offers a good selection of trails for beginners and families. Approximately half of the routes are rated as easy, providing gentle gradients and well-maintained paths. An example of an easy route is the Wind Farm Trail – Hetton Lyons Lake loop from Hetton-le-Hole, which is 15.9 miles long and takes about 1 hour 40 minutes.

Trail lengths vary significantly. You can find shorter routes like the Wind Farm Trail – Hetton Lyons Lake loop from Hetton-le-Hole at 15.9 miles (25.6 km), taking around 1 hour 40 minutes. Longer, more challenging rides, such as the Waskerley Way – Hownsgill Viaduct loop from Durham, can extend to 45.9 miles (73.9 km) and take over 4 hours.

While the majority of trails around Pittington are easy or moderate, there are a few more challenging options for experienced riders. The region's diverse terrain, including some steeper sections and varied surfaces, can provide a good workout. There are 3 routes specifically rated as difficult among the 66 available.

The trails around Pittington offer diverse scenery, including open countryside, woodlands, and river valleys. Many routes follow former railway lines, providing scenic paths. You'll encounter rolling hills and often pass by natural features like Hetton Lyons Lake or along rivers such as the Browney and Deerness.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Pittington are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Cycle Path to Lanchester – Animal Carvings in Tree Stump loop from Durham and the River Deerness – River Browney loop from Durham.

The region around Pittington is rich in history and natural beauty. You might encounter historical sites like Durham Castle or Lumley Castle. For natural sights, consider highlights like the Castle Eden Dene National Nature Reserve or the Durham Heritage Coast, which are accessible from some routes.

The mountain bike trails around Pittington are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 70 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, from gravel paths to natural dirt tracks, and the scenic beauty of the rolling hills and river valleys. The presence of dedicated cycle paths and unique features like animal carvings also receive positive feedback.

Mountain biking in Pittington is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter rides can be invigorating, though some trails may be muddier. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.

While specific pub stops are not detailed for every route, many trails around Pittington connect to or pass near villages and towns in County Durham. These areas typically offer local pubs and cafes where you can stop for refreshments and a meal. Planning your route with a map that shows local amenities can help you find suitable spots.

For mountain biking in Pittington, it's advisable to pack essentials such as water, snacks, a basic repair kit (including a spare tube and pump), and appropriate clothing layers for varying weather conditions. Helmets are always recommended. Depending on the trail length and remoteness, a first-aid kit and navigation tools are also good to have.