The best MTB trails around Cotes
3.8
(28)
223
riders
31
rides
Mountain biking around Cotes offers routes through a landscape characterized by country parks, woodlands, and reservoir areas. The region features varied terrain, including gentle paths and more challenging climbs, often passing through established natural areas like Beacon Hill Country Park and Swithland Woods. Trails frequently incorporate scenic views of reservoirs and historic estates, providing diverse settings for mountain bike exploration. The area's topography includes moderate elevation changes, suitable for a range of skill levels.
Best mountain bike trails around Cotes
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Beacon Hill Country Park, Swithland Woods and Beaumanor Hall loop, a 22.6 miles (36.3 km) trail that takes 2 hours 41 minutes to complete. This difficult route navigates through varied woodland and parkland.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is The Labyrinth – Swithland Reservoir loop from Loughborough University, a moderate 21.2 miles (34.1 km) path. This route offers scenic views around Swithland Reservoir.
- Local mountain bikers also love the The Labyrinth – Beaumanor Hall loop from John Taylor & Co, a 12.1 miles (19.4 km) trail leading through parkland and past historic Beaumanor Hall, often completed in about 1 hour 19 minutes.
- Mountain biking around Cotes is defined by country parks, dense woodlands, and reservoir paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more difficult climbs.
- The routes in Cotes are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.8 stars from over 27 reviews. More than 220 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Cotes's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
4.7
(11)
41
riders
36.3km
02:41
410m
410m
Embark on a challenging mountain biking adventure with the Beacon Hill Country Park, Swithland Woods, and Beaumanor Hall loop. This difficult 22.6-mile (36.3 km) route takes you through ancient woodlands and offers panoramic views from Beacon Hill summit, as well as picturesque vistas of Cropston Reservoir. Expect varied terrain, including loose gravel, slate, mud, and dirt trails, with some sections potentially requiring you to push your bike, all within an estimated duration of 2 hours and 41 minutes.
While the full loop demands advanced riding skills, Beacon Hill Country Park itself provides a diverse network of trails suitable for all levels. You can find beginner-friendly paths with minimal elevation, intermediate routes with climbs and descents, and even advanced challenges featuring steep drops and rocky sections. This makes the park a great starting point to explore, whether you are tackling the full loop or looking for a shorter ride.
This trail is notable for traversing Swithland Wood, an ancient woodland and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), known for its vibrant bluebell carpets in spring. The area also features exciting
5.0
(6)
48
riders
34.1km
02:21
380m
380m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
14
riders
19.4km
01:19
230m
230m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
23.6km
01:51
250m
250m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
3.0
(1)
12
riders
29.8km
02:03
350m
350m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Great pit stop for coffee and cake. No indoor seating but plenty of outdoor seating round the back and covered seating with blankets and heaters round the front. Cake is TASTY!
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Great pit stop for coffee and cake. Loads of outdoor seating with some covered areas with blankets and heater. No indoor seating inside shop and cafe.
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This place offers a beautiful outdoor seating area with delicious meals and beverages, plus safe for cyclists
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Lovely cake and coffee with a covered seating porch to get out of the rain!
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Cycling is only permitted on the one route through the park, which gets busy with walkers, take it slow in the park. Cafe and toilets in the middle.
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Bradgate Park was first enclosed as a deer park (for hunting) in the 12th Century. Herds of Red and Fallow Deer still roam freely across the Park's 800 acres today.The Park is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its importance as a wildlife habitat and its geological interest - the 600 million year old Precambrian rocks here are some of the oldest in England. Bradgate House, built around the year 1500, was one of the first unfortified, brick-built country houses in the country and was the childhood home of Lady Jane Grey and played an important role in the English Civil War. Abandoned in the 18th Century, the house is now an evocative ruin set in a landscape that has changed little since the house's heyday.
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This is the Great Pit in Swithland Wood, a site shaped by centuries of slate quarrying, with origins tracing back to Roman times. The quarry was first officially recorded in the 1300s, with activity continuing until the 19th century. Due to the presence of deep water and sheer vertical walls, the quarry is extremely hazardous and completely closed to public access.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Cotes?
There are over 30 mountain bike trails around Cotes listed on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy to difficult, allowing riders to explore the region's country parks, woodlands, and reservoir areas.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Cotes?
Yes, Cotes offers a good selection of trails for beginners. Approximately 18 of the routes are rated as easy, providing gentler paths through the landscape. An example of an easier route is The Labyrinth – Beaumanor Hall loop from John Taylor & Co, which is 12.1 miles (19.4 km) long.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails around Cotes?
Mountain biking around Cotes features varied terrain, including paths through country parks, dense woodlands, and scenic reservoir areas. You'll encounter moderate elevation changes, with routes often passing through established natural areas like Beacon Hill Country Park and Swithland Woods.
Are there challenging mountain bike routes for experienced riders in Cotes?
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there is at least one difficult-rated mountain bike trail. The Beacon Hill Country Park, Swithland Woods and Beaumanor Hall loop is a 22.6 miles (36.3 km) route that navigates through varied woodland and parkland with significant elevation changes.
Are there circular mountain bike routes in Cotes?
Many of the mountain bike routes around Cotes are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to explore the area without retracing your steps. Examples include the Beacon Hill Country Park, Swithland Woods and Beaumanor Hall loop and The Labyrinth – Swithland Reservoir loop from Loughborough University.
What can I see along the mountain bike trails in Cotes?
The trails often pass by notable natural and historical landmarks. You can expect to see areas like Swithland Reservoir, Swithland Wood, and Beacon Hill Summit. Some routes also go near historic sites such as Beaumanor Hall or Mount St Bernard Abbey.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy the most about mountain biking in Cotes?
The mountain bike routes in Cotes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.8 stars from over 27 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, which includes country parks, dense woodlands, and reservoir paths, offering a varied and engaging riding experience.
Are there any mountain bike routes that offer scenic views of reservoirs?
Yes, several routes provide scenic views of the local reservoirs. The The Labyrinth – Swithland Reservoir loop from Loughborough University is a popular choice specifically for its views around Swithland Reservoir. Other routes may also offer glimpses of Cropston Reservoir or Blackbrook Reservoir.
What is the longest mountain bike route available in Cotes?
The longest mountain bike route listed is the Beacon Hill Country Park, Swithland Woods and Beaumanor Hall loop, which covers a distance of 22.6 miles (36.3 km). This route is also rated as difficult.
Are there mountain bike trails that pass through historic areas or past notable buildings?
Yes, some mountain bike trails in Cotes incorporate historic elements into their routes. For example, the The Labyrinth – Beaumanor Hall loop from John Taylor & Co leads through parkland and past the historic Beaumanor Hall, offering a blend of natural beauty and local heritage.
What is the average duration for mountain bike tours in Cotes?
The duration of mountain bike tours in Cotes varies significantly depending on the route's length and difficulty. Shorter, easier routes like The Labyrinth – Beaumanor Hall loop from John Taylor & Co can be completed in about 1 hour 19 minutes, while longer, more challenging routes such as the Beacon Hill Country Park, Swithland Woods and Beaumanor Hall loop may take around 2 hours 41 minutes.
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