4.4
(41)
194
riders
36
rides
Mountain biking around Stourton offers diverse terrain within a historic landscape. The region is characterized by ancient woodlands, rolling chalk downs, and expansive farmland, providing varied riding experiences. Riders can explore paths that wind through the wider Stourhead estate, encountering both gentle sections and more challenging ascents. This area presents a blend of natural features and engineered landscapes suitable for mountain biking.
Last updated: July 19, 2026
4.0
(2)
7
riders
49.6km
03:53
610m
610m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.0
(3)
5
riders
38.1km
02:56
490m
490m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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23.8km
01:55
350m
350m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
26.6km
02:17
430m
430m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
16.4km
01:20
190m
190m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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At the heart of many beautiful roads and climbs in the North Cotswolds
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"The name "Brailes" is thought to originate either from the Old Welsh breg-lis - "hill court" - or the Old English byrgels - "burial place". Castle Hill Motte in the middle of the village is a natural knoll that was made higher in the Norman era to form the motte of a motte-and-bailey castle. Its construction may have been ordered by Roger de Beaumont, who was Earl of Warwick from 1123–53. Earthworks of both the motte and the bailey survive, and the site is a Scheduled Monument. Brailes was the home of William de Brailes, a 13th-century medieval painter of illuminated manuscripts. Of the many artists who painted such manuscripts, William is one of only two whose name has been recorded. It was also the birthplace of Thomas de Brayles (died c.1340), a senior judge and Crown official of the early fourteenth century, whose highest office was Chancellor of the Irish Exchequer. On the other side of Stocks Hill is Brailes House, the former home to the Sheldon family. The Sheldons have held the manor of Brailes since 1547." Source: Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brailes
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Surface firm in spring, though used by horses
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The George Inn at Brailes is a traditional 16th century Cotswold pub that serves up a delicious range of traditional and continental food and local Hooky beers. The pub has a number of cosy rooms as well as a large beer garden and pool table.
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This is the location of the Battle of Edgehill, a pitched battle of the First English Civil War occurring on Sunday 23rd October 1642. A detailed information board stands here describing how the event unfolded, offering a fascinating window into the area's past.
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I’m going to second the gravel comment, if it has rained recently it can get a bit more gravel than road.
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Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the beautiful Long Compton Woods in The Cotswolds AONB. The woods are made up of Broadleaved and conifer trees with a lovely understory of wildflowers and seasonal bluebells.
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There are over 35 mountain bike trails available around Stourton, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy and moderate routes to explore.
The mountain biking trails in Stourton are primarily categorized as easy or moderate. There are 13 easy routes perfect for beginners or a relaxed ride, and 23 moderate routes that offer more challenge with varied terrain and elevation changes. There are no routes classified as difficult.
Yes, Stourton offers 13 easy mountain bike trails. An excellent option for beginners is the Madmarston Hill Roman Road – Gallows Hill Viewpoint loop from Hook Norton, which is 14.3 miles (22.9 km) long and features manageable terrain.
Mountain biking around Stourton offers diverse terrain, characterized by ancient woodlands, rolling chalk downs, and expansive farmland. Many paths wind through the wider Stourhead estate, providing a mix of gentle sections and more challenging ascents. You can expect varied surfaces from gravel tracks to natural trails.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Stourton are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the popular Brailes Hill loop is a 30.8 miles (49.6 km) circular trail with significant elevation gain.
While mountain biking near Stourton, you can encounter several notable natural features and landmarks. The region is home to the magnificent Stourhead estate with its 18th-century landscape garden and man-made lake. You might also spot View of the Cotswolds Hills, or explore areas near The King Stone and The Rollright Stones Stone Circle, which are ancient historical sites.
Yes, the varied landscape around Stourton offers several opportunities for scenic views. The wider Stourhead estate includes features like Alfred's Tower, which provides expansive views across Wiltshire and the West Country. Additionally, Cold Kitchen Hill, with its trig point at 257 meters, offers breathtaking panoramic vistas. Some routes, like the Gallows Hill Viewpoint – Ditchedge Lane Descent loop from Long Compton, are named for their viewpoints.
The mountain bike trails in Stourton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 30 reviews. More than 190 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the blend of historic landscapes and natural features.
Yes, many routes traverse through picturesque villages and open countryside. The Kingham Village – Charlbury Village loop from Salford is a moderate 23.4 miles (37.6 km) path that takes you through charming villages and expansive rural landscapes.
Absolutely. The region is known for its ancient woodlands and nature reserves. A great example is the Kingham Village – Foxholes Nature Reserve loop from Chipping Norton, an 18.9 miles (30.4 km) trail that leads directly through woodlands and a nature reserve, offering a serene riding experience.
While there are no specific 'family-friendly' trails explicitly listed, the 13 easy routes available in Stourton could be suitable for families with some biking experience. These trails generally have less elevation gain and more manageable terrain, making them a good starting point for a family outing.
Stourton's varied terrain, including woodlands and chalk downs, can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also great, though some paths might be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions, especially in wooded areas.


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