The best cycling routes around City of Leicester

There are over 160 touring cycling routes around the City of Leicester, catering to various skill levels. You'll find approximately 50 easy routes, 80 moderate routes, and nearly 30 more challenging options.

Yes, the region offers over 50 easy routes suitable for families and beginners. A great option is the Great Central Way – Osprey Viewing Spot loop from King Power Stadium, which is an easy 7.4-mile (12 km) path following a former railway line. Watermead Country Park also provides peaceful, surfaced paths ideal for all ages.

Many routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. A popular choice is the Watermead Country Park – Bridge Over the River Soar loop from Thurmaston, a 9-mile (14.5 km) trail through the scenic Watermead Country Park. Another option is the Stone Bridge in Abbey Park – King Lear's Lake loop from Leicester, which is an easy 9.4-mile (15.1 km) ride.

The routes offer a mix of natural beauty and historical sites. You can cycle past the Stone Bridge in Abbey Park, explore the ruins of Leicester Abbey, or spot wildlife along the River Soar and Grand Union Canal. The Friars Mill and the Aylestone Meadows Wildlife Mural are also points of interest along some paths.

While specific routes for cycling with dogs are not always explicitly marked, many of the region's country parks and canal towpaths are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a lead and under control. Watermead Country Park and sections of the Grand Union Canal towpath are good places to consider, but always check local regulations for specific areas.

Many routes in Leicestershire pass through villages or near urban areas where you can find refreshment stops. The Bench by the Grand Union Canal – Great Central Way loop from Leicester, for example, combines waterside cycling with a path that often has amenities nearby. Exploring routes along the Grand Union Canal or through the National Forest often leads to charming pubs and cafes.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Leicester, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be excellent, though it's wise to plan rides for cooler parts of the day. Winter cycling is possible, especially on well-maintained paths, but be prepared for colder weather and potentially wet conditions.

Yes, Leicestershire is home to a significant part of the National Forest, offering a variety of cycle trails through woodlands and scenic villages. Hicks Lodge, a former coal mining site, has been transformed into a dedicated cycling centre within the National Forest, providing graded, traffic-free trails suitable for all skill levels. You can find more information about cycling in the National Forest at visitleicester.info.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 180 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscape, combining urban green spaces with tranquil countryside, the extensive network of waterside paths along the River Soar and Grand Union Canal, and the converted railway lines like the Great Central Way, which offer traffic-free riding.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, there are nearly 30 difficult routes available. The Leicester City Bridge artwork – Abbey Park loop from Clarendon Park is a difficult 25.2-mile (40.6 km) route, while the Road to Rolleston – Bridleway Through Open Fields loop from Leicester is an even longer 35.4-mile (57 km) option with significant elevation gain.

Yes, Santander Cycles Leicester offers e-bike rentals, providing a convenient way to explore the city and its surrounding areas without owning a bike. This initiative supports cycling within the city and makes it accessible for visitors.

Yes, several routes utilize former railway lines, providing mostly flat and traffic-free paths. The Great Central Way is a prime example, offering a scenic path through parts of the city and beyond. The Ashby Woulds Heritage Trail, located within the National Forest, is another excellent option that follows a former railway line through scenic woodland.