A decade of thrills

 

A decade of thrills: Celebrating 10 years of BikePark Wales

South Wales is a stunning area full of natural beauty and at the heart of this picturesque haven, a hub of adrenaline, adventure, and two-wheeled freedom. It's been a decade since we proudly introduced the UK to its very first full-service bike park, a paradise for mountain biking enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating escape into the great outdoors. As we celebrate its remarkable journey, we reflect on our story of this trailblazing park and how it has become a beacon for bikers across the nation.

A dream turned reality

In 2013 BikePark Wales was born. The visionaries, Martin Astley, Rowan Sorrell, Anna Astley and Liz Sorrell, wanted to create a place where mountain bikers of all skill levels could come to share their passion for riding and embrace the natural beauty of South Wales.

“It’s phenomenal for Rowan and I as founders to look at what we, our team and the mountain bike community have created, it’s beyond our wildest expectations.” – Martin Astley

Over the past decade, the park has evolved into a riders paradise, boasting a wide range of trails designed to cater to riders of every level. From gentle slopes perfect for beginners to heart-pounding descents that challenge even the most experienced riders, the park has it all. A meticulously crafted network of trails weaves through the hillside, offering an ever-changing canvas for riders to explore.

But the park is more than just trails. It's a comprehensive biking experience. Riders can find everything they need, from bike rentals and workshop repairs, to the café where riders can recharge and get cosy by the fire on those unavoidable wet Welsh days. Our dedicated team has left no stone unturned in their mission to provide visitors with a seamless and unforgettable biking experience, the staff are the beating heart of the whole operation with some even working here for the full 10 years since it opened!

Community and connection

One of the park's most remarkable achievements over the past decade has been its role in fostering a sense of community. It's not just about the trails; it's about the people who share a common love for riding and the outdoors. Regular collaborations with partners, events, and races have brought riders together, forging lasting connections and friendships.

The park has also been committed to promoting responsible riding and environmental awareness, partnering with Trash Free Trails and working with local schools to spread awareness to respect the natural landscape we ride in and minimize our impact on the environment. With solar panels being installed this September in addition to a host of other eco conscious business practices we are well on our way to becoming a truly environmentally friendly site.

A legacy of adventure

As we celebrate our 10th anniversary, we leave behind a legacy that is etched in the hearts of riders who have traversed the trails. From the elation of conquering a challenging route to the serenity of meandering down our longest descending green trail, Kermit. The park has woven unforgettable memories into the lives of countless individuals.

Looking ahead, the park continues to innovate and evolve. Plans for expansion, improved facilities, and collaborations with local communities promise an even brighter future for both us and the thriving community it has nurtured.

Ten years ago, a dream was realised — a dream that forever changed the landscape of mountain biking in the United Kingdom.  We not only introduced the nation to the joy of mountain biking but also fostered a tight-knit community of riders who share a deep-seated love for the sport. As we celebrate a decade of exhilarating rides, unforgettable memories, and lasting connections, we want to thank each and every rider who has supported us on this journey so far. Let's raise our helmets to the park that blazed the trail for biking in the UK and inspired generations to come.