The best gravel rides around Bricket Wood Common
4.3
(11)
113
riders
18
rides
Gravel biking around Bricket Wood Common offers diverse terrain across 78.5 hectares of semi-natural habitat. The area features ancient semi-natural woodland with mature oak and silver birch trees, alongside hornbeam coppice woodland. Riders can also traverse wet lowland heath and acid grassland, with ponds and seasonal streams adding to the hydrological diversity. This mix of landscapes provides varied unpaved sections suitable for gravel bikes.
Best gravel bike trails around Bricket Wood Common
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Hemel Hempstead Lock – Lady Capel's Bridge loop from Watford Junction, a 15.7 miles (25.3 km) easy trail that takes 1 hour 35 minutes to complete. This route offers a mix of woodland paths and open sections.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Verulamium Museum – Old Gorhambury House loop from Radlett, a difficult 31.2 miles (50.2 km) path. This longer route explores varied terrain, including historical sites and more challenging sections.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Lime Way Path – Shenleybury Crossing loop from Shenley, a 7.2 miles (11.6 km) trail leading through woodlands and open areas, often completed in about 48 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Bricket Wood Common is defined by ancient woodlands, heathland, and grassy areas, with the presence of ponds and seasonal streams. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging excursions.
- The routes in Bricket Wood Common are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 100 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Bricket Wood Common's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 6, 2026
3.0
(1)
11
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
13
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
25
riders
50.1km
03:13
350m
350m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
50.3km
03:03
210m
210m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
Hardpack with light gravel . Between the pitches if UCL and Watford FC
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Crossing point between Whipendall Woods / Whippy Trails and Cassiobury Park
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The Ebury Way is a 3.5-mile (5.6 km) rail trail in Hertfordshire between Watford and Rickmansworth. The route crosses the Grand Union Canal and three rivers: the River Colne, the River Chess and the River Gade. Its origin as the Watford and Rickmansworth Railway means that it is wide and largely flat. It forms part of National Cycle Route 61
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The Ebury Way is a flat, traffic-free cycle path between Rickmansworth and Watford. Shaded for hot days and dotted with scenic bridges, it also features a wooden hut café at Batchworth Lock (closed Mondays and Tuesdays) – ideal for a bacon sandwich by the canal. Keep an eye out for quirky touches like George Michael street art!
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The start of the Paddington arm and the this part of this canal was open on 1801. Length is 13.5 miles
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Can get very muddy and pools of water towards Mount Pleasant Lane
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This charming historic mill along the Grand Union Canal has been beautifully transformed into residential apartments. Its picturesque setting beside the canal creates a scenic backdrop.
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Black Jack's Lock, bridge and cottage are on the Grand Union Canal where it passes the River Colne lakes. The canal and locks were built in the 1800s, but the mill has been here for a lot longer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails around Bricket Wood Common?
The trails around Bricket Wood Common offer a diverse cycling experience. You'll encounter ancient semi-natural woodlands with mature oak and silver birch, hornbeam coppice, wet lowland heath, and acid grassland. This mix provides varied unpaved sections, including specific gravel tracks and paths through wooded areas, alongside some paved surfaces.
Are there gravel biking routes suitable for beginners or families in Bricket Wood Common?
Yes, Bricket Wood Common offers routes suitable for various abilities, including easy loops perfect for beginners or families. An excellent option is the Lime Way Path – Shenleybury Crossing loop from Shenley, which is 7.2 miles (11.6 km) and leads through woodlands and open areas, typically completed in about 48 minutes.
What are some longer or more challenging gravel routes in the area?
For those seeking a longer or more challenging ride, consider the Verulamium Museum – Old Gorhambury House loop from Radlett. This difficult 31.2 miles (50.2 km) path explores varied terrain, including historical sites. Another challenging option is the Alban Way Railway Bridge – Symondshyde Great Wood loop from St Albans City, also a difficult 31.2 miles (50.2 km) route.
How many gravel bike trails are available around Bricket Wood Common?
There are 24 gravel bike trails available around Bricket Wood Common, catering to various skill levels. This includes 10 easy routes, 7 moderate routes, and 7 difficult routes, ensuring options for everyone from casual riders to experienced gravel bikers.
What do other gravel bikers say about the routes in Bricket Wood Common?
The routes in Bricket Wood Common are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 20 reviews. Many riders praise the varied terrain and the sense of being 'out in the wilds' despite the area's proximity to urban centers.
Are there any notable natural features or wildlife to look out for while cycling?
Bricket Wood Common is a nationally recognized Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) with rich natural features. You can expect to see ancient woodlands, wet lowland heath, and acid grassland. The area is home to protected species like the Great Crested Newt, 27 different species of butterflies, and muntjac deer. In spring, the woodlands are vibrant with bluebells.
Can I find circular gravel bike routes in Bricket Wood Common?
Yes, many of the gravel routes around Bricket Wood Common are designed as loops, allowing for circular rides. For example, the popular Hemel Hempstead Lock – Lady Capel's Bridge loop from Watford Junction is an easy 15.7 miles (25.3 km) trail that offers a mix of woodland paths and open sections.
Are there any connections to broader cycling networks from Bricket Wood Common?
Yes, Bricket Wood Common connects to broader cycling networks, including the Ver-Colne Valley Walk and the Alban Way. These connections allow for longer and more integrated rides that extend beyond the immediate boundaries of the Common, offering more extensive exploration opportunities.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Bricket Wood Common?
While gravel biking is enjoyable year-round, spring offers the added beauty of bluebells in the woodlands. The varied terrain means conditions can change with the seasons; wet lowland heath and seasonal streams might be muddier after rain, while drier months provide firmer paths. Always check local conditions before heading out.
Is there a moderate gravel biking option for those looking for something between easy and difficult?
Absolutely. A good moderate option is the Ebury Way Cycle Path – River Colne loop from Watford High Street. This route covers 31.4 miles (50.5 km) and offers a balanced challenge for intermediate riders.
Are there any specific gravel tracks or paths within Bricket Wood Common?
Yes, within Bricket Wood Common, you'll find specific sections like the 'Crab Lane Gravel Track' and 'Gravel Path Through Wooded Area' that are ideal for gravel biking. These contribute to the diverse unpaved experience the area offers.
Most popular routes around Bricket Wood Common
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