The best MTB trails around Lubenham

There are over 60 mountain bike trails around Lubenham, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy and moderate routes, with a few more challenging options available.

The terrain around Lubenham is characterized by gently undulating rolling countryside. You can expect to ride on converted railway lines, such as the Brampton Valley Way, and along scenic canal towpaths, particularly near the Grand Union Canal and Foxton Locks. Many routes also traverse gravel tracks and rural bridleways, providing a varied off-road cycling experience.

Yes, Lubenham offers a good selection of easy and family-friendly routes. Over half of the trails are rated as easy, making them suitable for less experienced riders or families. An example of an easy route is the Foxton Swing Bridge – Foxton Locks Basin loop from Market Harborough, which is about 14.9 miles (24 km) long and takes around 1 hour 37 minutes.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Lubenham are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For instance, the popular Merry Tom Lane – View of Pitsford Water loop from Market Harborough is a circular trail that offers expansive views.

You'll encounter several interesting features. The Kelmarsh Tunnels, part of the former railway line, are a unique experience (remember to bring lights!). The historic Foxton Locks and the Foxton Locks Basin on the Grand Union Canal are also prominent landmarks, offering scenic views and a glimpse into engineering history. Additionally, Mill Hill provides magnificent views over Lubenham and the surrounding countryside.

Lubenham is primarily known for its recreational off-road cycling and scenic rides rather than highly technical mountain biking with jumps and berms. While there are moderate routes, the area's charm lies in its rolling countryside, converted railway lines, and canal towpaths. For highly technical trails, you might consider specialized mountain biking centers elsewhere in Leicestershire.

The trails around Lubenham feature gently undulating landscapes, so while there are ascents, they are generally not extreme. For example, a moderate route like the Gartree Road Crossroads – Goadby Road Gravel Track loop from Market Harborough has an elevation gain of approximately 335 meters over its 24.5 miles (39.5 km) distance.

Many routes in the area, including popular ones like the Merry Tom Lane – View of Pitsford Water loop, often start from Market Harborough, which is a good place to look for parking facilities before heading out on your ride.

The mountain bike trails around Lubenham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 90 reviews. Many riders praise the varied terrain, the scenic views of the rolling countryside, and the enjoyable experience of cycling along converted railway lines and canal towpaths.

Given the proximity to Market Harborough and the charming villages in the South Leicestershire countryside, you can often find cafes and pubs along or near the routes. The Foxton Locks area, a popular cycling destination, also has facilities where you can stop for refreshments.

The rolling countryside and varied terrain of Lubenham can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. During wetter periods, some unpaved sections and bridleways might be muddy, so checking local conditions is advisable. The Kelmarsh Tunnels are unlit, so bringing lights is recommended regardless of the season.

Generally, dogs are welcome on public bridleways and canal towpaths, which form part of many routes around Lubenham. However, it's always best to keep dogs under control, especially when encountering livestock or other trail users, and to check specific signage for any restrictions on individual paths.

Absolutely. The gently undulating open countryside around Lubenham provides numerous opportunities for scenic rides with expansive views. Mill Hill, a local landmark, is particularly noted for its magnificent vistas. Many routes, such as the Merry Tom Lane – View of Pitsford Water loop, are specifically highlighted for their panoramic outlooks.