Trails & Ales
weekly Off-road adventures down bristol’s muddy lanes, rocky bridleways and gravel paths.
Every Monday evening, rain or shine, Trails & Ales rides out to find some local gravel (read: mud, roots, rocks and occasional actual gravel) before finishing up at the pub.
Come along and enjoy some off-road fun with us.
We meet every Monday at 6.30pm at Millennium Square. No pre-ride sign up is required. Just rock up and ride with us.
After an introduction and ride briefing one of our volunteers will help form small groups.
Due to the nature of off-road riding, and the variety of bridleways Bristol has to offer, we do not offer groups based on average speed. Find out about pace groups below.
Whatever group you’re in you will ride at the speed of the slowest rider.
Routes range from 25km to 40km, and take around 2-3hrs (with breaks)
In the Summer we run Short and Long route options, while in the Winter all rides are shorter in distance.
We encourage all riders to have a copy of the route on a smartphone, or GPS computer. If you don’t have a navigation device, don’t let this stop you, as there are herders to support navigation.
We ride back into Bristol and park up at one of its many fine beer gardens. Beer? Cider? Or NA? It doesn’t matter what you’re drinking, we’re here to hang out, enjoy the craic, and revel in the joy of riding our bikes off-road together.
Our Trails & Ales route bank can be found using the link below
how it works
We are a social club
Trails & Ales is a community of riders with a focus on enjoying the ride and each other’s company. Our priority is fostering a positive, inclusive and fun atmosphere.
We’re not here to race, we’re here for the ride.
Sure, we can go fast but our focus is on connection and camaraderie, not competition. We want to build up the off-road ability and confidence of all riders through our weekly club ride.
Respect the trails
We love our local trails and those who share them. Our behaviour reflects on the entire group, so make sure to slow down, give way, and say hello to pedestrians and other trail users.
what we’re about
pace groups
Due to the nature of off-road riding and the variety of bridleways Bristol has to offer we don’t offer groups based on average speed.
Below is an explanation of how we organise riders into groups. Before joining a ride, make sure you have an idea of which group most suitable to you.
Steadiest Group
There will always be a beginner-friendly group which rides at a relaxed pace with two support riders. Perfect for those looking for a chilled ride or who don't have much off-road experience.
However this group will still be out riding for 2-3 hours.
Medium
A speedier pace with fewer stops aimed at experienced riders, however still a social pace ride and no one is left to ride at the back by themselves.
Medium Steady
A steady flowing pace with regular but short stops at the tops of climbs and change of terrain. Ideal for those comfortable on the bike but prefer a more moderate pace
Fastest
Self-led ride with limited stops. Not a race and still a social no-drop ride - everyone is responsible for looking back. Riders must slow on slow shared paths and respect all trail users.
Got any questions about Trails & Ales?
Feel free to contact us via email at -trailsandales.npcc@gmail.com
Upcoming Rides
Our Trails & Ales rides occur weekly with special events taking place throughout the year.
