The best cycling routes around Cotes
4.6
(121)
1,991
riders
294
rides
Touring cycling routes around Cotes offer a diverse landscape for cyclists of varying abilities. The region features a mix of open countryside, reservoir areas, and established trails. Cyclists can expect routes that traverse through natural parklands and along waterways, providing varied terrain for exploration.
Best touring cycling routes around Cotes
- The most popular touring cycling route is Cloud Trail – Swarkestone Lock loop from Loughborough, a 33.0 miles (53.2 km) trail that takes 3 hours 12 minutes to complete.…
Last updated: June 22, 2026
4.0
(2)
30
riders
53.3km
03:13
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(15)
29
riders
23.6km
01:26
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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18
riders
74.9km
04:47
550m
550m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(6)
27
riders
22.9km
01:23
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(6)
13
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Cloud Trail (sometimes called Cloud Trail Greenway) is a 13‑mile (21 km) mostly flat, traffic‑free route stretching from Derby to Worthington via former railway track and canal towpaths. The route winds through riverside scenery, crosses a Grade II listed viaduct near Melbourne, and skirts Cloud Quarry offering scenic viewpoints.
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Took a great group photo on the bridge, with the fields behind making a lovely backdrop
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Great walks and biking on cloud trial great views of the canal locks
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Cloud trial old train lines looking over to the bridge river trent
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Swarkerstone locks great to watch the canel boats path flat
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Cotes?
There are over 300 touring cycling routes around Cotes, offering a wide variety of options for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars.
What types of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Cotes?
Touring cycling routes in Cotes feature a mix of open countryside, reservoir areas, and established trails. You'll find paths traversing natural parklands and along waterways, with options ranging from paved surfaces to off-road sections.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easy ride?
Yes, Cotes offers over 110 easy touring cycling routes. An example of an easy route is The Wheatsheaf Inn – Swithland Reservoir loop from Loughborough, which is 14.2 miles (22.9 km) long and circles the scenic Swithland Reservoir.
What are some popular circular touring cycling routes in Cotes?
Many routes in Cotes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Popular options include Swithland Reservoir – Swithland Reservoir loop from Loughborough, which offers views of the water and surrounding woodlands, and Watermead Country Park – Bridge Over the River Soar loop from Loughborough.
What can I see along the touring cycling routes in Cotes?
Along the touring cycling routes in Cotes, you can explore various points of interest. Highlights include natural monuments like Beacon Hill Summit and Swithland Wood. You might also encounter historical sites such as Mount St Bernard Abbey, or enjoy views from Swithland Reservoir.
Are there any routes that pass by reservoirs?
Yes, reservoir loops are a defining feature of touring cycling in Cotes. Routes like Swithland Reservoir – Swithland Reservoir loop from Loughborough and Grace Dieu Priory Ruins – Thornton Reservoir loop from Loughborough offer scenic rides around these water bodies.
What is the longest touring cycling route in Cotes?
One of the longer routes is Grace Dieu Priory Ruins – Thornton Reservoir loop from Loughborough, which covers 46.4 miles (74.7 km) and leads through varied countryside and past historical sites.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Cotes?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscape, including reservoir loops and country park trails, and the variety of options for different ability levels.
Are there any routes that include historical sites?
Yes, some routes incorporate historical sites into their journey. For example, the Grace Dieu Priory Ruins – Thornton Reservoir loop from Loughborough passes by historical landmarks, offering a blend of cycling and cultural exploration.
Can I find routes that combine paved and off-road surfaces?
Many routes in Cotes offer a mix of surfaces. The Cloud Trail – Swarkestone Lock loop from Loughborough is a good example, including sections along the Cloud Trail that feature both paved and off-road paths.
Are there any routes through country parks?
Yes, Cotes features routes that traverse country parklands. The Watermead Country Park – Bridge Over the River Soar loop from Loughborough is a moderate route that takes you through Watermead Country Park, offering pleasant scenery and riverside cycling.
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