Downhill is Back: The Rise of Gravity-Fuelled Riding in the UK

Downhill mountain biking is back on the rise, and this time, it’s bringing the full buzz of gravity-fuelled excitement with it. Across the UK, more riders are swapping big climbs for big descents, bike parks are busier than ever, and race entries are filling up fast. After years of enduro leading the way, downhill is reclaiming its spot at the heart of British mountain biking.

Pure Speed, Simple Format

One of the biggest reasons for downhill’s resurgence is its simplicity. There’s no pedalling between stages, no complex timing systems, just one course, one run, and one goal: get to the bottom as fast as possible. It’s mountain biking at its most intense and rewarding. Riders love that downhill focuses purely on speed and precision, not endurance or pacing.

Accessible and Youth-Friendly

Downhill is also far more accessible for younger riders. Unlike enduro, where youth racers must have a chaperone to ride the course, downhill doesn’t require one. With marshalled tracks and controlled race environments, young riders can compete safely and independently. This has opened the door for a new wave of fast, confident youth riders who are progressing quicker than ever.

Dale Ratcliffe racing the Hamsterley TT organised by Northern Downhill

A Growing UK Downhill Race Scene

The UK downhill race calendar is thriving once again. The National Downhill Series continues to draw top-level talent, while grassroots events like the Stockport World Series at Farmer Johns and Revolution Bike Park have become iconic fixtures in their own right. Alongside these, Northern Downhill (NDH) are running their own dedicated series across the North, putting on well-organised, rider-focused events that give racers of all levels the chance to push themselves between the tape. Together, these races blend pro-level competition with genuine grassroots energy, creating an atmosphere that’s both fierce and fun.

And it’s not just elite riders filling the start gate, either, these events are packed with everyday riders chasing progression, personal bests, and weekend glory. Downhill racing in the UK isn’t just surviving; it’s more alive than it’s been in years.

Fast Riders and Future Stars

The UK scene is producing some seriously quick riders. With year-round access to world-class bike parks like Dyfi, Revolution, and BikePark Wales, young racers are learning the craft earlier than ever. Many of today’s fastest riders started on balance bikes or pump tracks and are now tackling full-blown downhill tracks with confidence and control. The progression across categories is incredible to watch, and it’s inspiring more people to get involved.

Andy Mcghie sending the canyon gap on his race run at The Stockport World Series at Farmer Johns Bike Park

Downhill for Every Rider

While more people are investing in dedicated downhill bikes again, you don’t need one to enjoy the sport. Modern enduro and long-travel trail bikes are more than capable of tackling downhill tracks. That accessibility, being able to turn up to a bike park and ride whatever you’ve got, is helping more riders experience the thrill of gravity without needing to overhaul their entire setup.

A Better Spectator Experience

Downhill is also one of the best disciplines to watch. Spectators can stand close to the action, see riders tear down technical sections, and feel the speed and sound as they pass. The compact nature of most tracks makes it easy for fans to follow the racing from top to bottom, creating an atmosphere that feels more like a festival than a race.

Enduro Slowing, Downhill Growing

While enduro racing remains popular, there are noticeably fewer events on the calendar. The logistics — long days, multiple stages, and chaperone requirements — make them harder to run and enter. Downhill, by contrast, offers a straightforward and thrilling alternative. The racing is short, intense, and easy to host, which is helping organisers and riders alike return to this format.

The Spirit of Downhill

At its core, downhill mountain biking represents everything great about the sport: speed, skill, focus, and fun. It’s about mastering the terrain, chasing that perfect line, and feeling the rush of gravity doing the work. Whether you’re racing, watching, or just sessioning your local bike park with mates, downhill delivers the excitement that got so many of us into mountain biking in the first place.

Downhill isn’t just back — it’s thriving. With more races, more riders, and more opportunities for everyone to get involved, the UK’s downhill scene is charging into a new era of speed, style, and stoke.

Thinking of giving downhill racing a go?

If the buzz around UK downhill racing has you tempted to try it for yourself, you’re in good company. While some of this year’s events have already wrapped up, many of these race series run annually and are likely to return in 2026. Whether you’re looking for your first taste of racing or aiming to push your skills on new tracks, these events offer a great mix of atmosphere, progression, and community spirit.

Here are some of the downhill race series active in the UK during 2025, many of which are expected to continue next year:

• British Cycling National Downhill Series – The UK’s premier downhill race series, featuring national-level tracks such as Cwmcarn, Fort William, Rhyd-y-Felin, and Llangollen.

• Stockport World Series – Grassroots, high-energy racing held at venues like Farmer Johns MTB Park and Revolution Bike Park.

• Northern Downhill (NDH) – A long-running northern organiser hosting grassroots DH events across the North East and North Yorkshire.

• B1ke Grassroots Downhill Series – Accessible, supportive events designed to help new racers gain confidence while still challenging experienced riders.

• Danny Hart’s Descend Winter Series – A popular off-season race series providing technical tracks and a great winter racing atmosphere.

• The GAP Winter/Spring Downhill Series – Early-season racing with a strong community vibe and fun, approachable tracks.

  
  

If you’re gearing up for your first race or levelling up for next season, we’ve got you covered at Trail Explorer Cycle Works — from full-face helmets and body armour to downhill-ready bikes and tyres. Drop in for advice or kit recommendations before you hit the start gate.

Get out there, give it a go, and I’ll see you on the hill.