The Malvern Hills Trust has closed an informal MTB trail running through Thirds Wood, citing safety risks and environmental damage as the reasons behind the decision.

The route, which was not a designated cycle trail, developed through repeated use over time. It exits directly onto Jubilee Drive, a busy A-road, at a blind bend, creating what the Trust describes as a significant danger for both cyclists and drivers. Sections of the trail were also found to be causing erosion within sensitive woodland, including areas within a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

The Trust confirmed it had previously attempted to discourage use of the route before deciding to close it formally. Closure signage is now in place on site.

Riders on the Malvern Hills and Commons are asked to keep to the bridleway network and permissive cycle paths granted by the Trust. There are 56km of bridleways across the hills, along with three signposted circular routes and a number of permissive cycle paths. Full details of permitted cycling routes are at malvernhills.org.uk/visiting/cycling.

For trail information and the full listing for Malvern Hills mountain biking, see our Malvern Hills Mountain Biking listing.