Around the Wolds loop

The Around the Wolds loop is considered a difficult road ride, requiring very good fitness. While Lincolnshire is often perceived as flat, the Wolds feature undulating hills and valleys. The route primarily uses quiet country roads, with some sections on A roads. You'll encounter rolling hills and some challenging climbs, but also refreshingly quiet stretches that gently lead to elevated riding.

The full circuit of the Around the Wolds loop covers approximately 137 kilometers (85 miles) with about 921 meters (3,021 feet) of elevation gain. For an experienced racebike cyclist, the estimated riding time is around 6 to 7 hours, but this can vary significantly based on fitness levels, stops, and weather conditions.

Yes, the route offers stunning and diverse scenery. You'll pass through quintessentially English landscapes of fields, farms, hedgerows, woodland, and villages. Notable points include Walesby Road Woods, the historic St James' Church in Louth, and the Caistor Arts and Heritage Centre Café. Cyclists can also enjoy panoramic views, especially of the flatlands to the east, and spot historic landmarks like abbeys and old churches.

The Lincolnshire Wolds offer a rewarding experience throughout much of the year. Spring and summer generally provide the most pleasant weather for cycling, with longer daylight hours and vibrant landscapes. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. It's always advisable to check local weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions can change.

Yes, the Around the Wolds loop briefly intersects with several other routes. You'll find sections that overlap with the Lindsey Trail (12% of the route), Living Landscapes (Short Route) (5%), and a small part of the EuroVelo 12 - North Sea Cycle Route (4%). Other minor overlaps include the Viking Way and the Greenwich Meridian Trail.

Yes, the route passes through charming villages and market towns where you can find places to refuel. A specific highlight mentioned is the Caistor Arts and Heritage Centre Café. The Lincolnshire Wolds are known for their quaint settlements, so you'll likely find other cafes and pubs to stop at for refreshments.

The Lincolnshire Wolds is a designated National Landscape (formerly Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), and generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle public roads and bridleways within the area. However, always respect private land and follow local signage. For more detailed information on regulations, you can check the official websites for Visit Lincoln or Visit Lincolnshire.

The Around the Wolds loop can be started from various points around the circuit, as it's a continuous loop. Market towns and villages within the Wolds often provide public parking facilities. Louth, Caistor, or Horncastle are popular choices, offering amenities and good access to the route. Specific parking details would depend on your chosen starting location.

The full Around the Wolds loop is rated as difficult and requires very good fitness, making it less suitable for beginners or young families looking for a leisurely ride. However, the Lincolnshire Wolds region offers versatility, with many shorter, less challenging routes, including canal-side cycleways and reclaimed railway paths that are traffic and hill-free, which might be more appropriate for families or those new to cycling.

The Lincolnshire Wolds are rich in wildlife. As you cycle through fields, farms, and woodlands, you might spot various bird species, small mammals, and insects. The area's diverse flora, particularly in places like Red Hill Nature Reserve, also supports a wide range of biodiversity, offering a chance to connect with nature.

This route is primarily a road cycling loop. While dogs are generally welcome in the Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape, bringing a dog on a long-distance road cycling route like this would depend on the dog's fitness and ability to keep pace safely. If you plan to stop at cafes or pubs, check their individual dog policies. For walks with dogs, many public footpaths and bridleways in the wider Wolds area are suitable, but always keep dogs under control, especially near livestock.

The Lincolnshire Wolds offer a unique cycling experience due to their status as a 'hidden gem' in England. Cyclists can enjoy refreshingly quiet roads and almost deserted lanes, providing a peaceful alternative to busier areas. The region combines natural beauty as a National Landscape with historic sites, charming villages, and a commitment to cycle-friendly infrastructure, making it versatile for various cycling preferences.