FARMER JOHNS MTB PARK
Set on the outskirts of the Peak District National Park, Farmer Johns has been a popular mountain bike destination for years. It’s hosted grassroots downhill races, dirt jump contests, night races and, most recently, the Gowaan Fest – a women’s MTB festival organised by enduro racers Bex Baraona and Martha Gill. The trails provide fun and challenge aplenty for intermediate riders and experts alike, with jumps and wooden features littered through the top meadows, followed by steep, tech, root-infested woods near the bottom.
Out of the start hut, the track splits into two runs that run parallel to each other, then splits again into multiple different line choices, some more gentle and others with bigger, gnarlier features. While it may not be as weatherproof as other locations, a lot of work has been put into making the trails at Farmer Johns ridable in all conditions. Just watch out for the slippery roots and mud in the woods, although most of the corners are well-built with plenty of support.
It’s a full-face-only park, so don’t forget it or you won’t be able to ride. Pads are recommended too. Bike-wise, anything from a hardtail (especially if you’re hitting the dirt jumps) to a downhill bike is suitable. A day pass costs £8 for non-members. This place doesn’t take itself too seriously and is all about having a good time. Thanks to the on-site cafe and bunkhouse, you can easily make a weekend of it with a group of mates, which is great for progressing skills.