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Routes
Road cycling routes
United Kingdom
England
East Midlands
Northamptonshire
Kettering
Desborough

Desborough to Market Harborough loop

Easy

4.5

(4)

24

riders

Desborough to Market Harborough loop

01:33

34.8km

230m

Road cycling

This easy 21.6-mile road cycling loop from Desborough to Market Harborough offers rolling countryside views and historical town charm.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1

8.78 km

Mega Bike UK

Highlight • Cafe

Really helpful independent bike shop if you need some spares or repairs. I spoke with Issac who also made me a good coffee!

Tip by

2

9.76 km

The Park Café

Highlight • Cafe

A nice option for a stop on the edge of Little Bowden. Prepare to do a bit of climbing when you leave though, if heading south.

Tip by

3

12.8 km

Climb to East Farndon

Highlight • Climb

Stunning views across the valley as you leave or head towards Market Harborough.

Tip by

B

34.8 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

30.9 km

1.71 km

1.55 km

654 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

27.7 km

6.94 km

167 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (200 m)

Lowest point (80 m)

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Weather

Powered by Foreca

Wednesday 6 May

15°C

5°C

39 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Desborough to Market Harborough loop suitable for beginners?

Yes, this is an easy road ride, making it suitable for cyclists of all fitness levels. The route features mostly well-paved surfaces, contributing to a smooth and enjoyable experience.

What is the terrain like on this route?

The route primarily follows well-paved roads, offering a smooth surface for cycling. It traverses gently undulating, rolling countryside, typical of the High Leicestershire area, with a relatively low elevation gain.

How long does it typically take to complete the loop?

On average, cyclists can expect to complete the loop in about 1 hour and 33 minutes. This duration can vary depending on your pace and any stops you make along the way.

Are there any specific points of interest or places to stop along the way?

Yes, the route offers a chance to experience the tranquil rural landscape. You can find refreshment stops like Mega Bike UK and The Park Café. The historic market town of Market Harborough itself provides opportunities for exploring local heritage and amenities.

Where can I park to access the Desborough to Market Harborough loop?

Market Harborough is a convenient starting point for this loop. There are various public car parks available in the town, allowing easy access to the route. You can find more information on parking options in Market Harborough by visiting visitharborough.com.

Is the route dog-friendly?

As this is primarily a road cycling route, it is generally not recommended for cycling with dogs, especially off-leash, due to traffic and the nature of the terrain. For dog-friendly options, consider dedicated walking or traffic-free paths in the wider area.

What is the best time of year to cycle this loop?

Given its well-paved surfaces and easy difficulty, the loop is enjoyable for most of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather and vibrant countryside views. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, while winter cycling is possible but may require more caution due to colder temperatures or potential icy patches.

Do I need any permits or pay entrance fees to cycle this route?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Desborough to Market Harborough loop. It is freely accessible to the public.

Does the route intersect with any other well-known paths?

Yes, sections of the route briefly intersect with or run alongside parts of the Jurassic Way, Midshires Way, and the Brampton Valley Way. You might also encounter various Public Footpaths and local lanes like Green Lane and Quakers Yard.

Are there any challenging sections or notable climbs?

While generally easy, the route does include a climb towards East Farndon. This is a manageable ascent that adds a slight challenge without significantly increasing the overall difficulty of the loop.

What kind of scenery can I expect along the way?

You can expect picturesque views of gently undulating, rolling countryside, characteristic of the Leicestershire and Northamptonshire border region. The route offers pastoral river valleys and open landscapes, with occasional views across valleys, such as those near East Farndon.

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