There have to be trails, obviously. But a really good trail centre needs more – maybe it’s somewhere to wash your bike, maybe it’s a family option as well as a white knuckle death gnar trail. Maybe it’s a really good pie at the end of the ride. Trail centres can ebb and flow in fortunes as popularity, neglect, or even weather take their toll on the trails. Here are three that we think are all currently delivering the goods:
The Finalists
- Llandegla, North Wales
- Bike Park Wales, South Wales
- Leeds Urban Bike Park, West Yorkshire
Voting instructions are at the end of this article. Read on to learn more about each finalist.
Llandegla, North Wales
Over the last 10 years, Coed Llandegla has become one of the favourite destinations for your mountain biking adrenaline fix in the UK. With trails to suit all abilities, from a picturesque beginners trail surrounding a reservoir to the B-line full of rocks, drops and jumps, it’s a great place for all riding levels. With a generous car park, big cafe, well equipped bike shop with bike hire, and a huge range of skills courses available there really is something for everyone.
Bike Park Wales, South Wales
Sat in the heart of the South Wales valleys is a 1200 acre bike park with over 30 descents, for beginner to pro level riders. With the choice of an uplift service or a pedal up, the day can be as relaxed or fast paced as you like. With such a wide variety of trails this really is a great place to progress your riding and practice skills. The site also offers a large cafe, bike shop, bike hire and coaching. Bike Park Wales have a dedicated team maintaining the park, so you’re sure to have a great day out, and they have also taken all aspects of a riding trip into account by including transport and accommodation details on their website.
Leeds Urban Bike Park, West Yorkshire
Where once there was a golf course, there are now a range of trails and tracks to suit every rider, with more planned. Leeds City Council is to be commended for the investment its made in creating a great piece of bike infrastructure in this urban setting. A pump track, BMX track, red, blue and black features and a glorious new flow trail through the woods have created an oasis of bike fun which is popular with rider of all wheel sizes and ages. A great cafe keeps the legs fuelled and is currently the only thing that will cost a visitor money. Perhaps a parking fee would be a small price to pay to ensure the continued investment in this truly innovative bike destination?
How to vote
The voting page opens at midnight Saturday 15th September. Come back after then to..
