The best cycling routes in Lincolnshire

Embark on the Water Rail Way and Woodhall Spa Loop, a moderate touring cycling route that guides you through the diverse Lincolnshire countryside. This 38.8-mile (62.5 km) journey, with a gentle 333 feet (102 metres) of elevation gain, is estimated to take about 3 hours and 38 minutes to complete. As you pedal, you'll follow the River Witham, enjoying expansive views across the open fenland and its characteristic big skies. Keep an eye out for the unique art trail featuring sculptures like the "Lincoln Reds" and "Curly Coat Pigs" that celebrate the region's heritage.

Planning your ride on this route is straightforward, as much of it is traffic-free, making for a relaxed touring cycling experience. Be aware that a small section, approximately 400 yards in Bardney, is on the B1190 road, so exercise extra caution there. While the trail is suitable for road bikes, you might encounter short sections of farm track that can become muddy during winter months. Fortunately, alternative all-weather routes are available if you prefer to avoid these potentially muddy parts.

This route stands out for its blend of natural beauty and cultural touches, offering more than just a scenic ride. The trail's path along the River Witham provides unique perspectives of the fens from innovative viewing platforms. It's an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local environment and history, making it a notable option for exploring the Lincolnshire region on two wheels.

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle adventure from Lincoln, combining the historic Fossdyke Trail with The Dukeries Trail. This 34.1 miles (54.9 km) loop takes you along peaceful canalside paths, through rural landscapes, and into ancient woodlands. You'll cycle past the impressive Fledborough Viaduct, a historical railway structure, and experience varied terrain from smooth asphalt to compacted gravel and even some rougher tracks, with a total elevation gain of 305 feet (93 metres) over approximately 3 hours and 38 minutes.

Planning your ride, be aware that while much of the route is paved, some sections of The Dukeries Trail can be rough, potentially requiring you to dismount and walk. The trail is accessible from Lincoln, and its connection to National Cycle Route 64 (NCN 64) offers good links. The Dukeries Trail was also designed to allow for round trips using trains, with stations like Saxilby accommodating bikes, providing flexibility for your journey.

This loop offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty, tracing one of England's oldest artificial waterways, the Roman-built Fossdyke Canal. You'll also explore the legacy of aristocratic estates like Clumber, Welbeck, and Thoresby, and cycle through parts of the legendary Sherwood Forest. The route stands out for its seamless connection of these historically rich areas and its use of disused railway lines, offering generally traffic-free sections for an engaging touring experience.

Embark on the Lincoln to Doddington Hall loop, a moderate touring cycling route that takes you through the picturesque Lincolnshire countryside. This 37.5-mile (60.3 km) journey involves a gentle 564 feet (172 metres) of elevation gain, making it a comfortable ride for most cyclists. You can expect to complete the loop in about 3 hours and 35 minutes, enjoying varied scenery along the way. Cycle past the historic Brayford Pool in Lincoln, where boats gently bob on the water, and later discover the serene countryside views as you pedal along the Georgie Twigg Track. The route offers a pleasant blend of waterside paths and open rural landscapes.

Planning your touring bicycle adventure on this loop is straightforward. The route is largely accessible, making many sections suitable for beginners and families looking for a relaxed day out. If you are driving, parking is conveniently available at Doddington Hall, which also serves as an excellent starting or ending point. For those who need equipment, bike hire facilities are also offered at Doddington Hall, ensuring you have everything you need for your ride.

This loop stands out for its combination of natural beauty and historical charm. A major highlight is Doddington Hall itself, an impressive Elizabethan mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens, offering a perfect stop for a break or exploration. You will also experience the peaceful waterside paths of the Fossdyke Canal Trail, providing a tranquil contrast to the open countryside. The route connects these distinct elements, giving you a rich and varied experience of the region's heritage and landscapes.

Embark on the Louth to Saltfleet Coast loop, a moderate touring cycling route that guides you through the varied landscapes of the Lincolnshire Coronation Coast National Nature Reserve. You will cycle 26.9 miles (43.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 263 feet (80 metres), passing through flat coastal marshes near Saltfleet and gently rolling countryside. Expect to see vast views of horizontal salt flats, the unique wetland habitat of the Lincolnshire Coastal Grazing Marshes, and far-reaching sand dunes around Saltfleetby-Theddlethorpe Dunes, all completed in about 2 hours and 35 minutes. You will also encounter bright yellow rape fields, emerald green cereals, neat farms, and charming villages along the way. This route offers a peaceful experience with minimal traffic.

Louth makes an excellent, cycle-friendly starting point for this loop. You will find ample parking available in Louth, making it convenient to begin and end your ride there. The town also offers a good selection of independent shops, bars, and restaurants where you can refuel before or after your journey. This area is known for having some of the quietest roads in England, ensuring a tranquil touring cycling experience.

This loop is a fantastic opportunity to explore the unique landscape of the Lincolnshire Coronation Coast National Nature Reserve. The route is notable for its diverse terrain, from the expansive coastal wetlands to the picturesque rural scenery inland. You will experience bracing coastal views and the distinctive ecosystem of the grazing marshes, which sets this trail apart in the region. The quiet roads contribute to a truly immersive and relaxing ride.

Embark on the Lincoln to Market Rasen loop, a moderate touring bicycle ride spanning 50.7 miles (81.5 km) with an elevation gain of 1120 feet (341 metres), typically completed in around 4 hours and 58 minutes. This scenic route guides you through the varied Lincolnshire countryside, offering picturesque views near Riseholme, including Riseholme Hall and Gardens. As you approach the Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape, you will enjoy vistas of forestry land and the Wolds escarpment, characterized by rolling hills, lush deciduous forests, and expansive skies that open into colorful meadows and wide fields.

While Lincolnshire is often perceived as flat, this loop incorporates the undulating hills and valleys of the Wolds, presenting some challenging climbs and rolling terrain that require good fitness. The trail largely follows quiet country lanes, often with sections of National Cycle Route 1, providing a peaceful cycling experience. You will encounter a mix of asphalt and paved surfaces, along with some unpaved segments, so be prepared for varied ground conditions as you explore the charming villages along the way.

This route is rich in historical and natural interest, starting from Lincoln with its magnificent cathedral, castle, and Steep Hill. As you cycle, you can discover villages like Tealby, home to The King's Head, reputedly Lincolnshire's oldest thatched pub dating back to 1367. The Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape itself offers a beautiful backdrop, and you might spot local wildlife such as deer and Lincolnshire Longwool sheep. Consider extending your trip to explore Doddington Hall, an Elizabethan manor house near Lincoln, or other variations within the "Edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds" routes.

Embark on the Louth and Lindsey Trail Loop, a difficult touring cycling adventure spanning 27.3 miles (43.9 km) with a significant 1482 feet (452 metres) of elevation gain. This route, estimated to take 2 hours and 52 minutes, guides you through the expansive skies and rolling countryside of the Lincolnshire Wolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You will cycle past ancient woodlands and charming villages, catching glimpses of historic architecture along the way. The trail also takes you through the notable Red Hill Nature Reserve, offering a chance to connect with the region's natural beauty. Be ready for undulating terrain, which includes some unpaved sections that can be challenging for touring cyclists.

When planning your ride, remember that the Louth and Lindsey Trail Loop features some unpaved and potentially difficult-to-ride sections, particularly for touring cyclists. Ensure your bike is suitable for varied surfaces and that you are prepared for a challenging ride. The trail is clearly marked with a distinctive purple carriage wheel logo, making navigation straightforward. Always check local conditions before you set out, especially concerning weather or any potential trail closures.

This route is a fantastic way to experience the unique landscape of the Lincolnshire Wolds, an officially designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Beyond the natural beauty, the trail offers a journey through the region's heritage, connecting you with its ancient woodlands and historic settlements. It provides a comprehensive tour of the area, highlighting both its ecological significance and its cultural charm. Consider this loop if you are looking for a rewarding and challenging touring cycling experience in a picturesque setting.

The Spalding to Market Deeping loop offers a moderate touring cycling experience through the unique Lincolnshire Fens. This 33.7 miles (54.3 km) route, with only 206 feet (63 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 20 minutes to complete. You will cycle through a largely flat landscape, enjoying expansive skies and a sense of tranquility. Expect attractive waterside views as the trail often follows the River Welland. Keep an eye out for wildlife like swans, herons, and kingfishers, and enjoy the historic 17th-century stone buildings in towns like Market Deeping.

This moderate bike ride requires a reasonable fitness level due to its length, even though the terrain is mostly flat. The route is predominantly paved, making it suitable for road bikes, but be prepared for some unpaved segments. For the most comfortable ride, a touring, hybrid, or gravel bike is ideal, as road bikes with very narrow tires might struggle on these sections. Spring is a particularly beautiful time to experience the route, especially with the highlight of the Daffodil Walk.

The loop connects several towns within the fenland region, offering a glimpse into its rich history and unique landscape. You can visit the historic Packhorse Bridge at Deeping St. James, built in 1651, or the unique 14th-century Trinity Bridge in Crowland. The trail also includes an excellent gravel track from Crowland to Peakirk, which is part of the National Cycle Network 12. Furthermore, the route intersects with significant long-distance trails, including a portion of the EuroVelo 12 - North Sea Cycle Route.

Embark on the Belchford loop, a challenging touring cycling route that guides you through the picturesque South Lincolnshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You will navigate rolling hills and tranquil streams, enjoying expansive hilltop views across the countryside. This difficult 38.2-mile (61.5 km) journey includes 1665 feet (507 metres) of elevation gain, offering a varied experience with both paved and unpaved sections through cultivated fields and past sparse farm buildings. Expect to pass notable natural features like Red Hill Nature Reserve, and you might even catch glimpses of Juicetrummp Hill.

Planning your ride on the Belchford loop is straightforward, with Belchford village serving as a convenient starting point. You should find parking available in the village before you set off. After tackling the challenging terrain, the traditional Bluebell Inn in Belchford offers a welcoming spot where you can refuel with food and drink. The estimated duration for completing this route is around 3 hours and 49 minutes, so plan your start time accordingly to make the most of your day.

This route stands out in the region for its significant climbs and its immersion in the unique landscape of the Lincolnshire Wolds. It provides a true test for touring cyclists seeking a demanding ride within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The combination of varied terrain and the opportunity to explore local landmarks makes the Belchford loop a distinctive option if you are looking for a rewarding cycling adventure.

Set out on a moderate touring bicycle ride along the Lincolnshire coast, stretching 40.3 miles (64.9 km) from Skegness to Mablethorpe. This route offers a gentle challenge with only 288 feet (88 metres) of elevation gain, making it achievable in about 3 hours and 52 minutes. You will cycle past classic seaside resorts and expansive sandy beaches, enjoying wide-open skies and the refreshing sea air. Take a moment to pause at the modern North Sea Observatory at Chapel Point, which provides excellent views of the coastline. The journey promises a diverse experience of the region's unique coastal beauty.

When planning your ride, be aware that while most of the route is paved, you will encounter some unpaved sections. You will also share promenades with pedestrians, especially during peak seasons, so always be mindful of other users. Be prepared for potentially challenging conditions on Mablethorpe Promenade if a strong east wind is present. Starting your ride earlier in the day might help you avoid busier times on shared paths.

This coastal route offers a unique perspective on the Lincolnshire coastline, moving beyond just the popular resorts. You will discover the tranquil Coastal Country Park, home to nature reserves and sand dunes, providing a peaceful contrast to the lively seaside towns. The trail highlights the diverse natural beauty of the area, making it a notable journey for those who appreciate both vibrant and serene coastal environments.