Farmer Johns MTB is a mountain biking facility located just outside Marple Bridge on the edge of the Peak District. Founded by “Farmer” John Thorpe and his wife Jill, and supported by a motley bunch of locals, FJMTB has grown to become one of the most well known and popular MTB parks in England.

We operate a Downhill orientated mountain biking experience with a range of trails to suit the more experienced rider. We also hold a number of DH racing events throughout the year and have a well establish dirt jumping park.

Our park is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9.30am to members at a cost of £50 year and £2 a ride thereafter; we are also open to non members at a charge of £12/day.

Below are a few FAQ’s we get over email from time to time, if your question is not covered below then drop us an email or write to us using the info on the contact page.

What do I need to ride the park
You will need to be a competent mountain bike rider capable of tackling trails that are graded in excess of Black (I.e very technically demanding with mandatory drops and gap features). You will also need a DH Certified Full Face Helmet and suitable body armor including gloves. Please note we do not allow people to ride the park without a DH Certified Full Face Helmet so make sure you bring one to avoid disappointment. Enduro detachable helmets are ok as long as they are bell or fox ones with the detachable chin guards. All other helmets must be DH certified with fixed Chin Guards

Is my “Enduro” full faced with a detachable chin guard OK to use at the park
Unfortunately we require all riders to have fixed all in one full faced lids when riding the park. We are no longer able to provide full faced helmets for loan due to hygiene reasons.

Can I just turn up and ride?
Yes, no need to book £12 for a pass

Do you have locker or showers at the park?
We are in the process of sorting out full changing facilities at the park, you are welcome to leave you bag at the Big View cafe (at weekends) or the farmhouse (during the week). We also have bike washing facilities available for park users.

Do you have bike wash at the park?
We have no bike wash.

Can I just turn up and ride or do I have to be a member / prebook?
You can just turn up and ride, day passes cost £10 and do not require full park membership. Please sign on in the Big View Cafe when you arrive

Do you run an uplift?
Unfortunately due to the way the course is set in the woods we are unable to provide an uplift facility

Is my bike suitable?
You will need a sturdy MTB that is built with off road riding in mind and specifically DH. You do not need a dh bike, or even a full sus, but it need to be fit for purpose with good working brakes

Do I have the right skill set to ride the park?
All the tracks are more technically demanding than anything you will find in a typical MTB trail centre. Experience riding technically demanding trails is essential including trails that are steep, have off camber roots and rock gardens and mandatory jump / drop off features.

We strongly advise all park users walk the trail before riding and make sure they have adequate skills and ability to ride safely

Is there a cost to spectate in the park or at race events?
No

How do I enter race events?
Race entries tend to open 1-2 months before the event, links will be posted in the relevant section of this website (see menu bar above). Limited entries may be available on the day on a first come first served basis although these will be limited and, in more popular events, may not be available at all. We are unable to provide updates on the number of race entries prior to an event and are not able to speculate whether entries on the day will be available for any of our events. As such we strongly advise you enter online in advance of any race to avoid disappointment!