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Im picking up my new bike this saturday and looking to get out on some ride outs soon where is the best place to start for a novice?

First things first, its winter and its going to be VERY muddy most places. Secondly, where do you live? fitness level? what sort of riding you after (xc/dh/jumps)?

Have you previous experience?
Do you know how to set your bike up for you?
I know I keep banging on about it but that cyclopark would be an ideal place to stay as it's not too muddy and has enough to practice on

Bloody love that cyclopark don't you!!

I live in royston hertfordshire ,i am willing to travel for a ride out. to be honest with you my fitness level is not that great play 6 a side every tuesday but the whole reason i want to get into mountain biking is to lose the beer belly and start a new hobby /meet new people in the process . looking at just xc at the moment as from what i have seen that doesnt have as many jumps etc until i build a bit more confidence up on the bike.

only experience is just messing around on bikes when i was at school to be honest . never been to any trails etc.
I dont know how to set the bike up yet but the shop will be setting it all up for me on saturday when i pick up the bike.
Where is cyclopark is that the one in kent ?

Broxbourne woods or tewin woods isnt too far from you
most places are very muddy, but still fun

Epping might be worth a punt if you stick to main paths/cinder tracks and tack a O/S map with you. Theres lots of single track in the woods but you can't really explain how to find it as its a maze of thick woods. Theres a few hills over there but no extream climbs. Don't know Royston area i'm afraid.

Tugger your right, it was ideal playground and ideal for set up of the new bike and it helped that it wasn't a quagmire

Thanks for the replies people! will have a look into them

It might be worth starting on the Tow Paths like somewhere near Hertford along the lee navigation, nice and flat but you can choose your distance easily while you build up some fitness.