If you go down to the woods today

Spring in the woods, originally uploaded by mike1727.

..you'll find some good off-road riding. The bridleways are running well despite the last couple of days' rain, the bluebells are out and the longer days make evening rides easy without lights.

Here's an easy 11 mile route mixing bridleways and roads round the North of St Albans to get you started. Keep your eyes open for interesting side routes as you make your way round, but remember bikes have no right of way on footpaths...

For something longer and more adventurous try the evening rides run from two of St Albans' bike shops, sited within a few turns of the pedals of each other on Victoria Street. Rock and Road (01727 832020) set off from their shop at 7pm on Wednesdays, Addiktion (01727 858841) set off at 7pm on Thursdays from their shop. Call first to check the rides are running and bring a spare tube, pump and a drink.

If our local bridleways are too tame for you, head off to Aston Hill Mountain Bike Area near Tring. One of the South East's first dedicated mountainbike areas, the 100 acres of Aston Hill are home to purpose-built cross country, downhill and 4X courses suitable for differing abilities. Award-winning CTC approved tuition is available, and there's a race season.