The best road cycling routes around Awsworth

Road cycling routes around Awsworth offer a diverse landscape, characterized by gentle hills, open fields, and significant waterways. You'll find accessible canal paths along the Erewash Valley and Nottingham Canal, which provide generally flat terrain. Additionally, routes feature undulating country roads and historical landmarks like the Bennerley Viaduct, offering elevated views across the Erewash Valley. This varied topography allows for cycling experiences ranging from relaxed rides to routes with moderate elevation changes.

There are over 360 road cycling routes available around Awsworth on komoot. These include 108 easy routes, 222 moderate routes, and 32 difficult routes, catering to various skill levels and preferences.

Yes, Awsworth offers several longer road cycling routes. For instance, the View of Cropston Reservoir – Swithland Reservoir loop from Ilkeston is a moderate 112 km route. Another challenging option is the Longcliffe Descent – Carsington Water loop from Ilkeston, which spans nearly 97 km with significant elevation gain.

The region is rich in natural and historical features. A prominent landmark is the Bennerley Viaduct, an impressive wrought-iron structure that offers breathtaking views over the Erewash Valley. You'll also encounter sections of the Nottingham Canal and the Erewash Valley, providing scenic waterway and countryside landscapes. For specific natural monuments, you might explore highlights like The Hemlock Stone or Loscoe Dam.

The road cycling routes in Awsworth are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 190 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from gentle canal paths to undulating country roads, and the scenic views, particularly around historical landmarks like the Bennerley Viaduct.

While many road cycling routes involve public roads, the Erewash Valley Trail, which passes through the area, offers sections along canal towpaths and former railway lines that can be quieter and more suitable for families. These paths often provide traffic-free or low-traffic environments, ideal for a more relaxed family ride. Look for easy-rated routes on komoot for gentler options.

Parking availability varies depending on the specific starting point of your chosen route. Many routes originating from nearby towns like Ilkeston will have public car parks. For routes incorporating the Erewash Valley Trail or Bennerley Viaduct, look for designated parking areas often associated with these attractions. It's advisable to check specific route details for recommended parking locations.

Awsworth is accessible by public transport, primarily bus services connecting to larger towns like Nottingham and Derby. From these towns, you can often find connections to Awsworth. For routes that follow the Erewash Valley Trail, some sections may be accessible from train stations along the Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire borders, allowing for a combination of cycling and public transport.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, Awsworth and its surroundings offer routes with notable climbs. The Longcliffe Descent – Carsington Water loop from Ilkeston is classified as difficult, featuring nearly 1000 meters of elevation gain over its 97 km distance. Another route, the Belper Lane End Climb – Holly Bush Inn loop from Ilkeston, also includes significant ascents.

The best time for road cycling in Awsworth is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder, and the countryside is at its most vibrant. While cycling is possible year-round, winter conditions can bring colder temperatures, rain, and potentially icy patches, especially on less-trafficked roads.

Many of the road cycling routes around Awsworth are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Descent to Shottle – Alport Heights Summit loop from Ilkeston and the River Derwent at Cromford – Wye Bridge (crossing the River Wye) loop from Ilkeston. The Erewash Valley Trail also offers a 30-mile circular route that can be incorporated into longer road rides.