The best cycling routes in North West Leicestershire

North West Leicestershire offers a diverse landscape for touring cyclists. You'll find everything from the undulating hills of the ancient Charnwood Forest to extensive woodlands within The National Forest. There are also many flat, scenic canal-side paths, providing a mix of surfaces and elevation profiles suitable for various cycling preferences.

Yes, North West Leicestershire has a good selection of easy routes. Out of over 200 touring cycling routes, 82 are classified as easy. An example is the Shell Brook Trail – Willesley Wood loop from Ashby-de-la-Zouch, which is just over 12 km long and features gentle elevation, making it ideal for a relaxed ride.

The region is rich in natural beauty, largely shaped by The National Forest. You can cycle through areas like Sence Valley Forest Park, which features Horseshoe Lake, or explore the varied terrain of Charnwood Forest. The canal networks, such as those near Moira Furnace and Canal, also offer tranquil, green routes. The Hicks Lodge Trail – Willesley Wood loop takes you through woodlands and the Hicks Lodge National Forest Cycle Centre.

For those seeking longer rides, North West Leicestershire offers several options. The Ivanhoe Way to Thornton Reservoir from Ashby-de-la-Zouch is a challenging route spanning over 61 km. Another option is the Swarkestone Lock – Trent & Mersey Canal Towpath loop from Donington Park, which covers over 51 km and combines canal towpaths with other scenic sections.

Many routes pass by interesting attractions. You could cycle past the historic Ashby de la Zouch Castle, or visit Moira Furnace and Canal, an important industrial heritage site. The region also features natural highlights like Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park and the significant waterway junction at Trent Lock.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in North West Leicestershire are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the Cloud Trail – Trent & Mersey Canal Towpath loop provides a moderate 36 km circular ride, and the Cloud Trail – Staunton Harold Reservoir loop is another popular circular option.

The rolling countryside and woodlands of North West Leicestershire are enjoyable throughout the warmer months, typically from spring to autumn. During these seasons, the weather is generally milder, and the natural landscapes are at their most vibrant, making for pleasant cycling conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

The touring cycling routes in North West Leicestershire are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 170 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the beauty of The National Forest, and the tranquil canal paths, highlighting the region's appeal for diverse cycling experiences.

Yes, North West Leicestershire benefits from sections of the National Cycle Network, including routes like NCN 6, 52, and 63. Notably, the 13-mile Cloud Trail, an old railpath, offers a traffic-free experience. The Ashby Woulds Trail is another excellent off-road option, perfect for a relaxed and safe ride.

While specific public transport links directly to trailheads can vary, many towns in North West Leicestershire are accessible by bus or train services. It's advisable to check local public transport schedules and policies regarding bicycles before planning your trip, especially for longer journeys or specific routes.

Many popular cycling areas and trailheads, especially within The National Forest parks like Hicks Lodge National Forest Cycle Centre or Sence Valley Forest Park, offer dedicated parking facilities. Towns like Ashby-de-la-Zouch also have public car parks that can serve as starting points for routes. Always check for specific parking information for your chosen route.

Yes, the region's rich industrial heritage has been transformed into recreational spaces. Routes often pass through former industrial sites now reclaimed by nature, particularly within The National Forest. The Snibston Grange Fishing Ponds – Snibston Discovery Trail loop from Coalville, for instance, explores an area with a mining past, offering a glimpse into this history while cycling.