The best gravel rides in Nottinghamshire

Nottinghamshire offers a wide selection of gravel biking opportunities, with over 160 routes available on komoot. These trails cater to various skill levels, ensuring there's something for everyone.

The gravel trails in Nottinghamshire range in difficulty. You'll find approximately 40 easy routes, 91 moderate routes, and 29 challenging routes. This variety ensures that both beginners and experienced riders can find suitable paths.

Nottinghamshire's gravel trails feature diverse terrain, including ancient woodlands, rolling landscapes, and extensive river corridors. You'll encounter a mix of gravel tracks, forest roads, and sections along canal networks, often traversing historic royal forests and expansive parklands.

Many routes pass through significant natural areas. You can explore the ancient woodlands of Sherwood Forest, the vast parkland of Clumber Park, or the wildlife haven of Attenborough Nature Reserve. Other notable areas include Bestwood Country Park and the scenic River Trent.

Yes, Nottinghamshire's trails often lead to or near historical sites. You can cycle through areas close to Newstead Abbey, the former home of Lord Byron, or explore the grounds of Rufford Abbey Country Park. Clumber Park, while a natural feature, also has historical significance.

While many routes are rated for more experienced riders, areas like Sherwood Pines Forest Park offer various tracks suitable for families. The Southwell Trail also has sections that are part of family-friendly rides connecting to Sherwood Pines.

The komoot community highly rates Nottinghamshire's gravel trails, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 200 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, the extensive network of trails through woodlands and along rivers, and the blend of natural beauty with historical interest.

Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, consider the Sherwood Pines, Clumber Park & the Rother Valley loop from Mansfield. This route spans over 102 km (63.5 miles) and connects major natural features, offering varied and demanding terrain.

Many of Nottinghamshire's gravel routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Blidworth Wood & The River Trent loop from Burntstump Country Park and the Sherwood Pines & Rufford Abbey loop from Mansfield.

For experienced riders looking for a challenge, routes like the Sherwood Pines, Clumber Park & the Rother Valley loop or the Blidworth Wood & The River Trent loop offer significant distances and elevation gains. These routes often link major forest parks and river paths.

Yes, Nottinghamshire has options for beginners. While specific 'easy' routes are best found by filtering on komoot, areas like Sherwood Pines Forest Park offer less demanding tracks. The Broxtowe Country Trail, though rated difficult, is a shorter route that can be completed in about 2 hours 15 minutes, offering varied country landscapes.

Nottinghamshire's gravel trails are enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter can be challenging with potentially muddy or icy conditions, especially in wooded areas.

Many routes in Nottinghamshire pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes and pubs. For example, routes around Rufford Abbey Country Park or those incorporating sections of the Southwell Trail often have opportunities for refreshment stops.