The best road cycling routes in Leicestershire

Leicestershire offers a wide selection of road cycling routes. You can find over 2,300 routes on komoot, catering to various skill levels, with approximately 770 easy, over 1,450 moderate, and nearly 100 difficult options.

For an easier ride, consider the Bradgate Park loop from Groby, which is about 20 km long and takes you through scenic areas. Another gentle option is the Barrow Bridge – Love & Piste Coffee Shop loop from Barrow-upon-Soar, covering around 40 km with minimal elevation.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the region offers routes with significant elevation changes. A notable difficult route is the Source of the River Avon loop from Hinckley, which spans over 100 km and features substantial climbs, providing a demanding experience for advanced cyclists.

Leicestershire's road cycling routes traverse diverse landscapes. You'll encounter rolling hills in areas like the Leicestershire Wolds and near Melton Mowbray, ancient woodlands in Charnwood Forest, and tranquil waterways along canals and reservoirs such as Thornton Reservoir and Swithland Reservoir. Many routes also pass through picturesque rural countryside and charming villages.

Many of Leicestershire's road cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Loughborough to Melton Mowbray loop and the Leicester loop, both offering comprehensive tours of their respective areas.

Cycling in Leicestershire allows you to explore various points of interest. You might pass by the historic Old John Tower and the Ruins of Bradgate House within Bradgate Park, or enjoy panoramic views from Beacon Hill Summit. Other routes may lead you near the Moira Furnace and Canal, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial heritage.

While many road cycling routes are on quiet country lanes, for dedicated family-friendly paths, consider areas within the National Forest, which features extensive cycle paths and dedicated trails. The Ashby Woulds Trail (NCN63) and routes around Hicks Lodge are particularly suitable for families, often being off-road.

Many routes pass through or near charming villages, especially around Melton Mowbray, which are known for their cafes and local specialities like pork pies. The Wymondham Windmill, Tea Rooms & Windmill Wheels Bike Shop is a specific highlight that offers refreshments and cycling services.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 690 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from rolling hills to tranquil canals, and the network of quiet country lanes that make for enjoyable rides. The blend of natural beauty and historical sites is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, Leicestershire offers several routes with excellent viewpoints. Charnwood Forest, for instance, provides panoramic views from Beacon Hill Country Park. The climb to Old John Tower in Bradgate Park also rewards cyclists with dramatic hilltop vistas over the surrounding countryside.

Leicester city has made efforts to be bike-friendly, and some routes are accessible from urban centers with public transport links. The National Cycle Network routes, such as NCN6 and NCN63, often connect to towns and follow river and canalside paths, making them more accessible via public transport.

Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road biking in Leicestershire, with warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though weather can be more unpredictable. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially wet conditions.

Yes, Leicestershire has converted several disused railway lines into dedicated cycle paths, offering easy, traffic-free routes. Examples include sections of the Cloud Trail and the Great Oxendon Tunnel loop from Market Harborough, which provide smooth surfaces away from vehicle traffic.