Abbeys, Mills and Forests GPX Route
Level: Challenging
Gravel/CX | MTB | GPX Route | Traffic-free | Cycle paths & trails | Some hills | 40 miles | 5 hours
Ride
You can make this ride as tricky as you like!
The route follows the Lee Valley north along well-maintained gravel and tarmac cycle paths before running through Waltham Abbey grounds and climbing to Epping Forest. Although routed along the well-made forest bridleways there are loads of opportunities to follow single tracks through the woods before riding past the MTB trails at Stratford’s velopark.
Any questions? have a look at our FAQ's or Contact us
Ride Description
Starting at Stratford the route follows cycle paths south, past Bazegette’s masterpiece of Victorian engineering before dropping back a century to the Georgian Three Mills house. The path follows the Lee, past the achingly cool narrowboats, deviating from the towpath to take in the Walthamstow Wetlands and Gunpowder Park, a new park created on the site of the Enfield munitions factories
A highlight is Waltham Abbey Garden ( you may have to wheel your bike through this park) before the route hits bridleways proper, climbing out of the Lee Valley. The bridle paths around miles 18 to 20 can get very soggy in Winter, be prepared!
Ride down through Epping, if you’re lucky you may well come across the herd of cattle or just be taken in by the many interesting looking single tracks leading off the main route.
Finally, the route brings you to start through the MTB trails of the Velopark ( have a go if you have the energy!) before leading you back to the station.
Start and End Points
Stratford Station
Ride Details
- Distance: 63 km | 40 miles
- Climb: 560m | 1830 ft
- Percentage off-road: 85%
- Trail surface: Natural |Gravel |Woodland Single Track
- Duration: 5 hours.
- Technical Grade: Red – challenging, although a long ride there are few technical sections to the route.
Places to visit
Mile 1: Abbey Mills Pumping Station
Mile 1.6: Three Mills Island – Tidal Mill
Mile 6.5: Walthamstow Wetlands
Mile 14: Gunpowder Park
Mile 16: Waltham Abbey
Mile 37: Velopark MTB Trails and Olympic Park
Places to eat
Mile 7: Engine House cafe
Mile 7: Ferry Boat Inn
Mile 25 ½ High Beech Kiosk
Is this ride for me?
Ideal for riders with some off-road experience and reasonable fitness
Is my bike OK for this ride?
When dry you can complete this ride on a hybrid bike however it's more fun when ridden on an MTB or Gravel/CX bike.