The best gravel rides around Breedon Cloud Wood

There are 10 gravel bike trails listed around Breedon Cloud Wood, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.

You can expect a diverse landscape, from ancient woodland paths within Breedon Cloud Wood itself to former railway lines and canal towpaths. The terrain is generally gently undulating to flat, with some modest hills providing elevation changes. Many routes offer traffic-free sections, ideal for gravel biking.

Yes, there are several easier routes. For a gentle introduction, consider the Ticknall Climb – Calke Park loop from Ticknall CP, which is just over 10 km with minimal elevation gain. Another good option is the Lount Woods Trail – Jaguar Lount Woods loop from Staunton Harold, offering a pleasant 19 km ride.

For a longer ride, the Shell Brook Trail – Hicks Lodge Trail loop from Ashby-de-la-Zouch covers over 44 km. If you're looking for more elevation, the Brick Lane Climb – Foremark Bridleway loop from Ticknall CP features over 300 meters of ascent over its 25 km distance.

Many of the gravel routes in this area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Shell Brook Trail – Shell Brook Trail loop from Staunton Harold and the Lount Woods Trail – Jaguar Lount Woods loop from Staunton Harold.

Parking is generally available at common starting points for routes, such as Staunton Harold and Ticknall CP (Car Park). Always check specific route details for the most convenient parking locations.

Breedon Cloud Wood is an ancient semi-natural woodland and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), so you'll be cycling through a rich ecological environment. Expect diverse flora, including rare orchids and a carpet of bluebells in spring. The wood is also home to various butterflies and bird species like buzzards, dunnocks, and robins.

While specific routes may pass by establishments, the general area around Breedon Cloud Wood, including nearby villages like Ticknall and Staunton Harold, offers options for cafes and pubs where you can refuel during or after your ride.

Spring is particularly beautiful when the woodland floor is covered in wildflowers like wood anemones, bluebells, and primroses. Autumn also offers stunning foliage. While cycling is possible year-round, be mindful that the ancient wood's clay soil can become muddy after heavy rain, especially in winter.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful ancient woodlands, the variety of traffic-free paths like former railway lines and canal towpaths, and the opportunity to experience both natural beauty and historical landscapes.

Public transport options to the immediate vicinity of Breedon Cloud Wood can be limited. It's advisable to research local bus services to nearby towns or villages like Ashby-de-la-Zouch or Melbourne and plan your route from there, as many trails start from these surrounding areas.