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United Kingdom
England
South East England
Oxfordshire
Cherwell

Swalcliffe

The best MTB trails around Swalcliffe

4.2

(18)

69

riders

33

rides

Mountain biking around Swalcliffe offers routes through the rolling countryside of North Oxfordshire. The area is characterized by a mix of open farmland, historic tracks like the Salt Way, and scattered woodlands. Elevations are generally moderate, providing a variety of climbs and descents suitable for mountain biking. The landscape provides a natural setting for exploring on two wheels.

Best mountain bike trails around Swalcliffe

  • The most popular mountain bike trail is Banbury to Everdon Stubbs loop, a 50.4 miles…

Last updated: May 25, 2026

5.0

(1)

7

riders

#1.

Gallows Hill Viewpoint – Track Leading to the Salt Way loop from Shutford

25.7km

02:00

300m

300m

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Piotr
May 1, 2025, View of the Cotswolds

Off road. Not recommend for road bike.

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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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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.

3

0

Alex
October 18, 2022, The George Inn, Brailes

16th century pub serving drinks (hooky beers) and food. Opening hours: BAR OPENING TIMES Monday - Saturday: 12 noon till 11pm Sunday: 12 noon until 10.30pm KITCHEN OPENING TIMES Monday: CLOSED Tuesday - Friday: 12 - 3pm, 5 - 8pm Saturday: 12 - 9pm Sunday: 12 - 4pm

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available around Swalcliffe?

There are over 30 mountain bike trails around Swalcliffe listed on komoot, offering a variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.

Are there easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Swalcliffe?

Yes, Swalcliffe offers 11 easy mountain bike trails. A good option for beginners is the Track Leading to the Salt Way – Madmarston Hill Roman Road loop from Banbury, which is 15.1 miles (24.3 km) long and follows historic Roman roads.

What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails near Swalcliffe?

The mountain bike trails around Swalcliffe feature rolling countryside, a mix of open farmland, historic tracks like the Salt Way, and scattered woodlands. Elevations are generally moderate, providing a good balance of climbs and descents.

Are there any family-friendly mountain bike routes in the Swalcliffe area?

While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always clear-cut, the 11 easy trails in the area are generally suitable for families with some biking experience. These routes tend to have less challenging terrain and shorter distances.

What are the options for more advanced mountain bikers in Swalcliffe?

For advanced riders, there is one difficult trail available. The Banbury to Everdon Stubbs loop is a challenging 50.4 miles (81.1 km) route with significant elevation changes, taking over 6 hours to complete.

Are there circular mountain bike trails around Swalcliffe?

Many of the mountain bike routes in Swalcliffe are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Gallows Hill Viewpoint – Track Leading to the Salt Way loop from Shutford and the Gallows Hill Viewpoint – Track Leading to the Salt Way loop from Epwell.

What can I see along the mountain bike trails in Swalcliffe?

The trails often pass by historical sites and natural monuments. You might encounter landmarks such as The King Stone, The Rollright Stones Stone Circle, or the Battle of Edgehill Site. Some routes also offer views from places like Gallows Hill.

What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about mountain biking in Swalcliffe?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 17 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the mix of historic tracks and rural farmland, and the options available for different ability levels.

Are there any moderate mountain bike trails for intermediate riders?

Yes, Swalcliffe has 21 moderate mountain bike trails. A popular choice is the Banbury Town Hall – Bloxham Grove Windmill loop from Banbury, which covers 30 miles (48.3 km) and offers a good challenge for intermediate riders.

What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Swalcliffe?

The rolling hills and farmland of Swalcliffe are generally enjoyable for mountain biking from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is typically milder, and the trails are less likely to be muddy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Are there opportunities for pub lunches along the mountain bike routes?

While specific pubs aren't listed directly on the routes, the trails often pass through or near villages in the North Oxfordshire countryside. Many of these villages have traditional pubs where you can stop for refreshments and a meal.

What are the typical distances for mountain bike trails in this area?

Trail distances vary significantly. Easy routes can be around 15 miles (24 km), while moderate trails range from 15 to 30 miles (24 to 48 km). The most difficult route extends to over 50 miles (81 km), so there's a suitable distance for most preferences.

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