This brand new free-to-use trail facility is the first of its kind in the area...
A new purpose-built mountain bike trail has officially opened in Whippendell Wood, bringing an exciting and unique facility to Watford, a town known for its vibrant urban life yet fortunate to be home to exceptional green spaces like Cassiobury Park and Whippendell Wood.
The new trail – created in partnership by Bike Park Chilterns and Watford Borough Council – gives riders the chance to enjoy a progressive, purpose-built experience just moments from the town centre, making Watford one of the first areas in the UK to offer a council-led semi-urban mountain bike facility.
With mountain biking growing rapidly in popularity and one in three UK cyclists now owning a mountain bike (UK Cycling Market Report, BikeBiz), interest in the sport continues to surge, with online searches for “mountain biking” up 77% across the UK (ProCyclingUK). This new trail provides a safe, sustainable and accessible space to enjoy the sport within a truly special natural setting.
The launch event (Weds 29 Oct) was attended by Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, Councillor Tim Williams, Portfolio Holder for Streets and Parks, and representatives from Bike Park Chilterns CIC, alongside local riders and members of the mountain biking community, including George Madley from Atherton Bikes and Thomas Hawkins from Hawk Racing.
Starting near Lime Avenue, the trail features flowing berms and progressive jumps, built with the woodland’s native gravel and clay subsoil to blend naturally into the landscape. Clear signage and selective fencing help protect wildlife and guide riders, creating a safe, sustainable and welcoming space for everyone.
The project was made possible through the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL)-backed Watford Neighbourhood Grant of £23,000, with additional support from West Herts Golf Club, which returned a section of leased land to create the trail area.
Through a Community Use Agreement with Bike Park Chilterns CIC, the facility will offer free group coaching sessions, private coaching and opportunities for residents to get involved through an active volunteer base supporting inspections, maintenance and community events. Coaching will be delivered through Bike Park Chilterns CIC by Firecrest Mountain Bike Coaching, whose programmes are recognised by British Cycling for developing talented young riders.
Photos by Rob Jefferis
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “This is an exciting addition to Watford’s outdoor offer and another great way to get active in nature. Spaces like Cassiobury Park and Whippendell Wood are real assets to our town, and this new trail gives people a safe and sustainable way to enjoy mountain biking close to home. It’s another example of how we’re making the most of our fantastic green spaces for everyone to enjoy.”
Councillor Tim Williams, Portfolio Holder for Streets and Parks, said: “Trails like this are becoming hugely popular across the country, and it’s brilliant that Watford is leading the way. This project shows how we can create opportunities for adventure and sport while protecting our natural environment. It’s a great new attraction for riders of all ages and abilities.”
John Holbrook, Director at Bike Park Chilterns CIC, said: “We’re thrilled we have been able to work with the council to make this trail a reality. Our aim has always been to build something progressive, accessible and community-driven. Whippendell Wood is a truly unique setting, it’s rare to find such high-quality mountain biking so close to an urban centre, and we’re excited to see riders from across the region come and enjoy it.”
The trail replaces unauthorised routes previously used in the area, creating a safe, sustainable and well-managed facility that balances recreation with conservation. To find out more, visit whippytrails.com.
Photos by Rob Jefferis
