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.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
5.0
(1)
7
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
23.8km
01:52
330m
330m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
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.
5
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
At the heart of many beautiful roads and climbs in the North Cotswolds
0
0
"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 1123β53. 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
1
0
Surface firm in spring, though used by horses
0
0
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.
2
0
Iβm going to second the gravel comment, if it has rained recently it can get a bit more gravel than road.
0
0
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
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
1
0
There are over 30 mountain bike trails around Swalcliffe listed on komoot, offering a variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
Yes, Swalcliffe offers 11 easy mountain bike trails. A good option for beginners is the Track Leading to the Salt Way β Madmarston Hill Roman Road loop from Banbury, which is 15.1 miles (24.3 km) long and follows historic Roman roads.
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.
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.
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.
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 β Track Leading to the Salt Way loop from Shutford and the Gallows Hill Viewpoint β Track Leading to the Salt Way loop from Epwell.
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.
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.
Yes, Swalcliffe has 21 moderate mountain bike trails. A popular choice is the Banbury Town Hall β Bloxham Grove Windmill loop from Banbury, which covers 30 miles (48.3 km) and offers a good challenge for intermediate riders.
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.
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.
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.


Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.