THE MBLIK DIRECTORY

Everything you need to know about Flyup 417 Bike Park

GETTING THERE

Although the 417 is located directly adjacent to the A417, it can’t be accessed this way. Instead, follow the postcode GL3 4SS to the Twelve Bells pub and then continue towards Bentham to reach the bike park. There’s a sign, but this can get obscured by the hedge.

FACILITIES

Parking, toilets, cafe, uplift, coaching, bike wash, bike shop and bike hire.

NEARBY BIKE SHOPS

FlyUp Bikes are on-site, with workshop facilities and a good stock of parts and gear. There’s a range of Marin hire bikes for both kids and grown-ups.

CONTACT

https://417bikepark.co.uk

OTHER RIDING

Cannop Cycle Centre, Forest

of Dean – Forty-five minutes west is one of the UK’s most popular MTB destinations. Here you’ll find two graded trail loops, numerous DH runs, a skills area and a maze of unofficial off-piste trails. It’s a great venue to pair up with the 417 to make a weekend of it. www.pedalabikeaway.co.uk

Wye Valley – Heading north from Chepstow, this idyllic river valley is a hotbed of bridleways and natural riding potential. Grab a map and simply go exploring, or book on with Wye MTB for a day of guided, uplift-assisted riding. www.wyemtb.co.uk

VERDICT

One of the best things about the 417 is that it’s a place where first-timers and seasoned pros can ride together and both have an equally fun time. There’s a big range in difficulty, and everything is safe and predictable. Not being built on the largest of hills, or having many trees, the scope for endless natural-feeling singletrack isn’t here, so instead the park capitalises on its open aspect with loads of wide, flowing lines and machine-built jumps. There’s plenty here and lots you can build up to, to keep you coming back.