The best cycling routes in the East Midlands

The East Midlands offers a diverse range of terrain for touring cyclists. You'll find challenging climbs and breathtaking views in the Peak District National Park, such as on the Hope Valley and Winnats Pass loop from Bamford. For easier, traffic-free rides, there are converted railway lines like the Monsal Trail and the Tissington Trail. Rutland Water provides flat, circular paths, while 'High Leicestershire' features rolling hills and quiet country lanes. The National Forest offers routes through woodlands and along restored canals.

Yes, the East Midlands has several excellent options for family-friendly touring cycling. The Monsal Trail and the Tissington Trail are both traffic-free, relatively flat converted railway lines, ideal for all ages. The Carsington Water family loop is another moderate option that circles the reservoir, offering continuous scenic views on a well-maintained path.

The region is rich in natural beauty. The Peak District offers stunning views, particularly around the Ladybower, Derwent and Howden Reservoirs loop. Rutland Water provides continuous views of England's largest reservoir and surrounding countryside. Within the Peak District, natural monuments like Mam Tor and Hollins Cross offer spectacular panoramic vistas. You can also explore the reforested areas of the National Forest and serene river and canal paths.

For those seeking longer rides, the East Midlands offers several options. The Tissington Trail itself is a significant 27.3-mile route. Combining trails, such as the High Peak and Monsal Trails Loop, creates a challenging 65.7 km (40.8 miles) ride. The path circling Rutland Water is also a substantial 37 km (23 miles) traffic-free circuit.

The East Midlands is dotted with historical and cultural attractions. You can cycle through charming market towns like Melton Mowbray and Oakham, or picturesque ironstone villages such as Belton and Stamford. Historic sites include the grand Burghley House estate and Launde Abbey. For natural history, consider exploring areas near Dove Holes Caves or High Tor and Giddy Edge, which offer unique geological features.

The East Midlands is suitable for touring cycling throughout much of the year, with each season offering a different experience. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with changing foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days and warmer weather. While winter can be colder, many of the traffic-free trails, especially those on former railway lines, remain accessible and offer a peaceful cycling experience.

Absolutely. The East Midlands is known for its beautiful water features. The Rutland Water loop from Oakham circles England's largest reservoir, providing continuous lakeside views. In the Peak District, the Ladybower, Derwent and Howden Reservoirs loop offers stunning scenery around these iconic bodies of water. Additionally, sections of the Erewash Canal and the Ashby Canal provide pleasant cycling paths along waterways.

The East Midlands is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 7,200 reviews. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from the challenging hills of the Peak District to the serene, traffic-free paths around Rutland Water and the National Forest. The variety of routes suitable for all abilities and the picturesque villages are frequently highlighted as key attractions.

Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the East Midlands offers routes with significant elevation gain. The Peak District National Park is home to several difficult routes, such as the Hope Valley and Winnats Pass loop from Bamford, which includes demanding climbs. Another challenging option is the High Peak and Monsal Trails Loop, which combines two former railway lines with some more strenuous sections.

The East Midlands is known for its cycling-friendly infrastructure. Many routes pass through or near charming villages and market towns where you can find cafes, pubs, and other amenities. For instance, the area around Rutland is praised for its 'unsullied villages' and quiet roads, often featuring establishments that welcome cyclists. Café Ventoux at Tugby is specifically mentioned as a cycling-friendly cafe, indicating a supportive community for touring cyclists.

There are over 9,300 touring cycling routes available in the East Midlands on komoot, catering to a wide range of abilities and preferences. This includes over 3,000 easy routes, more than 4,500 moderate routes, and over 1,700 difficult routes, ensuring there's something for every touring cyclist.

Many of the touring cycling routes in the East Midlands are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Popular examples include the Rutland Water loop from Oakham, the Ladybower, Derwent and Howden Reservoirs loop, and the Carsington Water family loop. These loops offer convenient ways to explore the region's scenery.