The best MTB trails in Leicestershire

Leicestershire offers a diverse range of mountain biking experiences, from ancient woodlands and country parks to purpose-built trails. You'll find extensive networks of bridleways, green lanes, and field tracks, alongside dedicated facilities like Hicks Lodge National Forest Cycle Centre and Snibston Colliery Park. The terrain varies, featuring rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and diverse habitats, particularly within the ancient landscape of Charnwood Forest.

Yes, Leicestershire has many easy-graded mountain bike routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Conkers and Ashby Woulds Trail loop is an easy 12.9-mile route. Another great option is the Snipston Country Park and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Wood loop, which is 10.2 miles and also rated easy. Hicks Lodge National Forest Cycle Centre also provides gentle paths for those new to the sport.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Leicestershire offers routes with significant climbs and technical sections. The Beacon Hill Country Park, Swithland Woods and Beaumanor Hall loop is a difficult 22.6-mile path featuring demanding ascents and descents through ancient woodlands, with expansive views from Beacon Hill. Additionally, the Charnwood Forest Downhill Mountain Bike Park near Coalville provides downhill tracks with drops, jumps, and rock gardens for thrill-seekers.

Many trails in Leicestershire offer picturesque views. The Beacon Hill Country Park, Swithland Woods and Beaumanor Hall loop provides breathtaking views from Beacon Hill's summit. Bradgate Park, part of Charnwood Forest, features dramatic hilltop views and the iconic Old John Tower, which offers panoramic vistas. You can also find scenic spots like Beacon Hill Summit and View of Bardon Hill Quarry along various routes.

Yes, Leicestershire has family-friendly options, particularly at purpose-built centers. Hicks Lodge National Forest Cycle Centre is designed to cater to all skill levels, including gentle paths suitable for families. Snibston Colliery Park also features a 4km mountain bike trail with skills areas and a pump track that can be enjoyable for intermediate cyclists and older children.

Leicestershire's trails pass through a rich natural and historical landscape. You can encounter ancient oak trees and rocky outcrops in Bradgate Park, explore the ruins of Lady Jane Grey's childhood home, or visit Beacon Hill Summit for extensive views. Other notable features include Swithland Wood, Groby Pool, and the ancient woodlands of Charnwood Forest, known for its diverse wildlife and bluebells in spring.

The mountain bike trails in Leicestershire are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 260 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the mix of natural and purpose-built sections, and the opportunities to explore ancient woodlands and scenic country parks.

Many of Leicestershire's mountain bike routes are designed as loops, offering convenient circular rides. Examples include the From Conkers trails to Hicks Lodge loop, the From Croxton Kerrial to Belvoir Castle loop, and the Asfordby to Hoby and Ashby Foville loop, all of which are popular circular options.

Leicestershire is home to several excellent purpose-built mountain biking facilities. Hicks Lodge National Forest Cycle Centre near Ashby-de-la-Zouch offers a network of trails for all skill levels, including technical sections and berms. Snibston Colliery Park features a 4km trail with jumps, bumps, skills areas, and a pump track. For downhill enthusiasts, Charnwood Forest Downhill Mountain Bike Park near Coalville provides dedicated downhill tracks.

The best time to go mountain biking in Leicestershire is generally during drier periods, from late spring through early autumn. While the diverse landscapes offer year-round appeal, some local trails, particularly those with clay soil, are best avoided when damp to prevent damage and ensure a more enjoyable ride. Spring also brings vibrant bluebells to woodlands like Charnwood Forest.

While many trails are best accessed by car, some areas in Leicestershire have public transport links. For specific routes, it's advisable to check local bus services or train connections to nearby towns and villages that serve as starting points for trails. Planning your route on komoot can help identify start points close to public transport hubs.

Yes, Leicestershire has dedicated areas for mountain bikers to hone their skills. You can find a Skills Area at Snibston Colliery Park, which is part of the Snibston Colliery Park Mountain Bike Trail. Hicks Lodge also features the Hicks Lodge Blue Trail, which is part of a larger network designed for various skill levels.