BRACKNELL

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BRACKNELL FOREST

Map: OS MAP Explorer 160
Route Difficulty:ì
Fun Factor: ìì
Route Distance: 6.5 miles

"Bracknell Forest offers something for the family party and the off-road enthusiast. It offers miles of well surfaced traffic free forest tracks to explore at your leisure, and a specific mountain bike area for those wanting a challenge. The route described here is a suggested route out to the mountain bike area, a circuit of it and an alternative route back. However you can explore wherever you want on this vast path network. The majority of the tracks are cycleable but keep a lookout for the few 'no bike' restrictions. A more detailed map is available at the information centre for 50p and you will also have to collect a £1 permit to cycle from here. I you wish to hire a bike or trailer 'Wellington Trek' at the start can help you. They are open every weekday in the summer holidays (telephone 01344 772797)"

A. Go just to the left of the Lookout centre to the adventure playground. Go through the gate and turn left (signposted mountain bike area). Keep straight on following red signs at all junctions. At marker point 10 keep following red signs.

N.B. There are some steep downhill's here so take care with children

B. At junction 3 follow red sign to lake ride. Following the red signs will take you on a circuit around the edge of the mountain bike area. Taking a right turn anywhere will take you into the mountain bike area where singletrack courses abound - this area is less suited to families. Stick to main wider paths if you wish to skirt the mountain bike area. Eventually, hopefully you should return to marker 3. Fortunately if you do get lost the numbered marker system in the forest can help you find your way.

C. At marker 3 to return a different way take the 'Lower Star Post Trail'. Keep straight on. At marker 5 take 'Lookout & Pudding Hill' path. At marker 9 continue to follow signs for Lookout. At unsigned junction go right to return to the lookout.

Courtesy of A.Rackstraw @ Saddle Safari Bike Shop, Marlow. Part of "Local Bike Adventures" By A.Rackstraw, Available at Saddle Safari for £3.99

Trail guide and map courtesy of A.Rackstraw @ Saddle Safari.