BikePark Chilterns is heading into a busy autumn, with trail construction about to begin at Aston Hill Bike Park and the build phase nearly complete at Whippendell Woods.
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Aston Hill: trail build starts this October
After months of groundwork, permissions and preparation, BikePark Chilterns will begin trail construction at Aston Hill during the second half of October. Before machinery moves in, a full aerial topographical survey is being completed by Team UAV — the specialists behind projects including Revolution Bike Park. Their 3D mapping will help visualise terrain, drainage and line options before digging begins.
Through rider support, memberships and donations, over £40,000 has now been raised to date. Those funds have already gone toward essential pre-build costs like insurance, health and safety planning, rent, survey fees and operator training. By managing construction in-house, the team estimates it’s saving more than 50% versus using external contractors, without compromising on design or quality.
The rebuild will see Aston Hill reopen in autumn 2025 with an entirely new trail network. Two professionally built trails are confirmed: a progressive flow line for intermediate riders, and a high-speed, big-air meets technical descent aimed at experienced riders. A third, downhill race-oriented trail is also planned, subject to final crowdfunding and scheduling. These are all-new lines, marking the start of a phased redevelopment for the site.
New ways to support
BikePark Chilterns has updated its membership and donation options to help fund the Aston Hill build:
- 6-Month Membership – £100: a shorter-term way to join and directly support the trail construction (limited to 10 places).
- Recurring Donations: ongoing monthly support, from a few pounds upward, going straight into the trail fund.
- Community Membership (coming soon): a low-cost way to get involved in volunteering and development, with future benefits like discounted day passes and events once Aston Hill reopens.
Whippendell Woods: nearing completion
Over in Watford, the new trail area at Whippendell Woods is approaching completion. Built with council grant support, it will be the first free-to-access, semi-urban mountain bike area of its kind in the UK. The trails are designed for all abilities and built to last, combining community access with progressive riding opportunities for all ages. Lessons from this project will feed directly into the Aston Hill redevelopment.
BikePark Chilterns describes both sites as part of “something truly special across the Chilterns – sustainable, rider-led and community-powered.”
Find out more
For updates, visit Aston Hill Bike Park and Whippendell Woods on iBikeRide.
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