The best road cycling routes around Edwinstowe

Road cycling around Edwinstowe offers a diverse landscape, primarily characterized by ancient woodlands, heathland, and quiet country roads. While many routes are mostly flat, you will also encounter gentle and some steeper inclines, providing a varied experience for cyclists.

There are over 20 road cycling routes available around Edwinstowe, catering to various skill levels. These include options for easy, moderate, and advanced riders, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Yes, Edwinstowe is a great base for family cycling. While many komoot routes are moderate, the area features dedicated cycling paths and well-maintained off-road tracks suitable for families. For example, the Adventure Pine Cycle Route is designed for a day out, incorporating planned stops and utilizing off-road tracks with minimal road crossings. Clumber Park also offers over 20 miles of traffic-free cycle ways, mostly flat and non-technical.

The region is rich in natural and historical attractions. You can cycle past the iconic Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve, home to the legendary Major Oak. Other points of interest include Clumber Park with its beautiful parkland and lake, or explore the historical significance of Edwinstowe village itself, where Robin Hood is said to have married Maid Marian at St. Mary's Church. For a unique geological feature, consider routes that pass near Creswell Crags.

The road cycling routes around Edwinstowe are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from 5 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic beauty of the ancient woodlands and the tranquility of the quiet country roads that define the area.

Yes, many of the popular road cycling routes around Edwinstowe are circular. For instance, you could try the The Old School Tearooms – Bolsover Castle loop from Edwinstowe CP, which is a 32.5-mile route connecting historical points. Another option is the Laxton Village – Daffodil Tearoom loop from Edwinstowe CP, a 35-mile trail through ancient woodlands and open fields.

Edwinstowe and the surrounding forest parks offer various parking options. Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre and Sherwood Pines Forest Park both provide dedicated parking facilities, which serve as excellent starting points for many cycling routes in the area.

The area is enjoyable for road cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter cycling is possible, though conditions may vary, especially on less-maintained paths.

Many routes around Edwinstowe pass through or near villages and towns that offer opportunities for refreshment. For example, the Daffodil Tearoom – Quiet Country Lane loop from Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve suggests a tearoom stop, and the Daffodil Tearoom – Eakring Windmill loop from Edwinstowe CP also includes a tearoom in its name, indicating places to pause and refuel.

For those looking for longer rides, routes like the Laxton Village – Daffodil Tearoom loop from Edwinstowe CP covers approximately 35 miles (56.4 km). Another substantial option is the Picnic Area by the Stream – Cycle Network Marker loop from Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve, which is around 35.1 miles (56.5 km) long.

While the region is generally characterized by gentle terrain, some routes do offer more challenging climbs. For example, the The Old School Tearooms – Bolsover Castle loop from Edwinstowe CP features an elevation gain of over 417 meters, providing a good workout for road cyclists seeking a moderate challenge.