Bike Park Wales
HIDDEN away in the wooded slopes of Gethin Woods just south of Merthyr Tydfil, Bike Park Wales is fast staking its claim as the UK’s ultimate mountain biking playground. From breezy beginner runs to heart-pounding expert descents, it’s a place built to be inclusive — whether you’re on your first downhill or chasing airtime on pro lines.
The set-up is refreshingly clear: imagine a ski resort without the snow, the pistes replaced by trail networks that snake through atmosphere and terrain. The park’s trail network covers an impressive scale — over 40 all-weather trails spanning 850 hectares (or about 1,200 acres) in woodland terrain.
Colour-graded runs range from gentle greens to expert blacks, complete with jumps, berms, drops, rock gardens and flowy stretches for every style of rider.
At its core is Kermit, the UK’s longest green-grade descending trail — a signature route that even novices can enjoy via the park’s uplift service.
Speaking of uplifts — yes, Bike Park Wales runs a vehicular uplift (mini-bus style) to ferry riders and bikes to the top so you can conserve your energy for the fun stuff. For those who prefer to pedal up, there are climbing trails too — though you’ll be rewarded mainly by the views and the sense of achievement.
Beyond the rides, the park feels like a living, evolving project. There’s an onsite café, bike shop, workshop, coaching and guiding services, and full equipment hire to make a visit accessible. The founders’ vision is to keep pushing boundaries — improving trails, expanding features, and making the sport more welcoming and equitable.
Perhaps one of the most compelling features isn’t even a trail: in 2024 the park signed a new long-term lease that includes a progressive “rewilding” agreement with Natural Resources Wales. Instead of being subsidised, BPW now contributes to restoring woodland biodiversity on the land they ride, weaving nature regeneration into the business model itself.
In short: Bike Park Wales is more than just a trail network — it’s a statement that gravity, accessibility, innovation and environmental care can ride in harmony.