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Aston Hill, Richmond Bike Park and Rabbit Hill Bike Park share Shimano Trail Born Fund support

Shimano's Trail Born Fund is supporting three UK trail and bike park projects, with distribution partner Madison overseeing delivery in the UK. The projects are Aston Hill in Buckinghamshire, Richmond Bike Park in North Yorkshire, and Rabbit Hill Bike Park in Aberfoyle, Stirlingshire. The global fund was set up to support trail creation, restoration and community-led riding projects, with a stated focus on sustainable access, inclusivity and long-term trail stewardship. In the UK, Madison is working with project partners to direct funding to the three sites.

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Aston Hill

Aston Hill has been closed since 2020 following the impact of ash dieback disease on the site. Work to bring the venue back into use began in 2025 with support from the Shimano Trail Born Fund and is continuing through 2026. The site is now operated by Bike Park Chilterns CiC, which is aiming to reopen with two trails initially, with plans to expand to seven over time. John Holbrook, director at Bike Park Chilterns CiC, said the backing gives the project confidence to "push forward and set a new standard" for the venue.

Richmond Bike Park

Richmond Bike Park is a community-led trail and skills facility on the outskirts of Richmond, North Yorkshire, aimed at riders of different ages and abilities. Construction began this spring, with completion expected by autumn. The project is also intended to support physical activity, wellbeing and community connection, and to act as a stepping stone to wider trail networks across the North Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors and County Durham. Louise Raine from the Richmond Bike Park project called the funding "a genuine catalyst" for the build, adding that it also brings added credibility as the project grows.

Rabbit Hill Bike Park, Aberfoyle

In Aberfoyle, within Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Rabbit Hill Bike Park is adding a dedicated bike park and pump track to an area already established for gravel, road and mountain biking. Kerry MacPhee, speaking on behalf of the project, said the new facility adds another layer of accessibility to the area, particularly for local children and visiting riders.

Shimano said the Trail Born Fund is intended to help protect trail access, strengthen riding communities and support grassroots organisations with long-term ambitions.

If you have ridden Aston Hill, Richmond Bike Park or Rabbit Hill Bike Park, check out the listings and add your reviews, photos and videos to help keep them up to date.

Read: 1 times Published: 24/07/2026
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