The best road cycling routes around Breedon On The Hill

There are over 15 road cycling routes around Breedon On The Hill, offering a variety of distances and elevations to explore.

The area is defined by the distinctive Carboniferous limestone hill, rising 122 meters, which provides a challenging yet manageable climb. Reaching the summit offers panoramic views across the East Midlands. Beyond the hill, you'll find a network of routes including sections of the Cloud Trail, picturesque canal towpaths, and quiet country lanes, creating diverse terrain for road cyclists.

The road cycling routes in Breedon On The Hill are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, rewarding climbs, and scenic views.

Yes, there are 5 easy road cycling routes around Breedon On The Hill. These often incorporate sections of the Cloud Trail or canal towpaths, which are typically flatter and more accessible. For example, parts of the Cloud Trail are mostly paved, making them suitable for various fitness levels.

Absolutely. The region offers 12 moderate road cycling routes, many of which include significant elevation gain, such as the climb up Breedon Hill itself. Routes like the Mount St Bernard Abbey – Beacon Hill Forest Path loop from Breedon on the Hill feature over 590 meters of elevation, providing a good challenge.

While dedicated family-friendly *road* cycling routes are less common due to traffic, sections of the Cloud Trail are hard-surfaced and picturesque, offering a safer environment for families. Additionally, the nearby Calke Abbey estate features a safe, off-road cycle route around its perimeter, approximately 6 miles long, which is ideal for families.

Road cycling routes in the area offer views of several notable features. You can see the historic Priory Church of St Mary and St Hardulph atop Breedon Hill. Routes may also pass by natural attractions such as Deer Park at Calke Abbey, Staunton Harold Reservoir, and Melbourne Pool. The Trent & Mersey Canal Towpath also offers scenic sections.

Yes, several routes utilize sections of the Cloud Trail. For instance, the Cloud Trail – Inas Cottage loop from Melbourne CP and the Cloud Trail – Beacon Hill Forest Path loop from Melbourne CP both incorporate parts of this mostly paved national cycle network, offering a pleasant riding experience.

Many routes start from villages like Melbourne or near attractions like Calke Abbey, where parking facilities are available. For routes incorporating the Cloud Trail, you can often find parking in nearby villages such as Tonge. Specific parking details are usually provided on individual route pages.

Yes, the villages and towns surrounding Breedon On The Hill offer various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. Many routes pass through or near these settlements, providing opportunities for refreshment stops. For example, the wider Trent Lock area, a popular cycling destination, has amenities available.

Spring, summer, and early autumn generally offer the most favorable conditions for road cycling in Breedon On The Hill, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. The panoramic views from Breedon Hill are particularly enjoyable on clear days.

While some routes may be accessible via public transport to nearby towns and villages, direct access to all starting points might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus services to specific start locations or consider cycling to the route start from a public transport hub.

Yes, some road cycling routes in the area will take you near or past the Calke Abbey estate. While the estate itself has an off-road cycle route, the surrounding country lanes provide scenic road cycling opportunities with views of the estate and its features like the Deer Park.