The best road cycling routes in the East Midlands

The East Midlands offers a vast network of road cycling routes, with over 12,000 tours available on komoot. These routes cater to all abilities, including over 4,000 easy, 7,700 moderate, and 900 difficult options.

The East Midlands presents a diverse range of terrain. You'll find challenging climbs and stunning views in the Peak District National Park, broad rolling ridges and secluded valleys in High Leicestershire, and flatter, well-surfaced options along canal towpaths and disused railway lines like the Monsal Trail. The region is characterized by rolling hills and picturesque villages.

Yes, the East Midlands offers several family-friendly options, particularly along converted railway lines and canal towpaths which provide traffic-free or low-traffic cycling. The Monsal Trail and Tissington Trail within the Peak District are excellent examples, offering scenic and moderate experiences. The National Forest also features routes along old railway trackbeds and canals, suitable for a relaxed ride.

For challenging road cycling, the Peak District National Park is ideal. It features iconic climbs like Winnats Pass and Mam Tor. Routes such as The Strines, Langsett Reservoir & Mam Tor Nick loop from Hope and Snake Pass and Holme Moss loop offer significant elevation gain and demanding ascents.

Cyclists can encounter numerous historic sites and natural features. In the Peak District, you might pass reservoirs like Ladybower, Derwent, and Howden. The region also features charming villages, the 19th-century canalside blast furnace at Moira within the National Forest, and the historic market towns of High Leicestershire. You can also find natural highlights like Monsal Dale Weir and Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls.

Many road cycling routes in the East Midlands are designed as loops. For instance, the area around Rutland Water features a popular loop suitable for various fitness levels. In the Peak District, you can find circular routes like Burbage Moor, Rivelin & Ladybower loop from Hathersage, which offers reservoir and moorland views. For more circular options, you can explore routes around Nottingham, such as those listed on Visit Nottinghamshire.

The East Midlands is enjoyable for road cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. However, the Peak District can be exposed, so checking weather conditions is always advisable, especially for higher elevations.

Yes, the East Midlands has a growing cycling culture, and you'll find establishments that cater specifically to cyclists. Café Ventoux in Tugby, Leicestershire, is a notable example. Many routes also feature pubs and cafes in villages, providing convenient refreshment stops along your ride.

The East Midlands is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 3,300 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's varied terrain, from the challenging climbs of the Peak District to the quiet country lanes of High Leicestershire, and the picturesque villages encountered along the way. The mix of natural beauty and historic sites also contributes to its appeal.

Many areas within the East Midlands, particularly towns and villages near popular cycling routes, are accessible by public transport. For routes within the Peak District, towns like Hathersage, Hope, and Edale have train stations, making it possible to start and end your ride without a car. It's always recommended to check specific transport links for your chosen route.

Yes, the region offers dedicated facilities for cyclists. Hicks Lodge, located within the National Forest, is a dedicated cycling center with varied trails. While primarily for mountain biking, it indicates the region's commitment to cycling. Additionally, closed-circuit tracks at places like Darley Moor and Mallory Park cater to various cycling disciplines.