The best traffic-free bike rides in Rutland

Rutland offers a wide selection of traffic-free road cycling routes. Our guide features over 220 routes, with 60 considered easy and 148 moderate, ensuring options for various skill levels.

The routes in Rutland, particularly around Rutland Water, feature a mix of paved paths and dedicated bike trails. While largely smooth, some sections may include gravel. Beyond the reservoir, you'll find quiet country roads winding through arable fields, dense hedgerows, and charming stone villages.

Yes, Rutland is excellent for family cycling. The 25-mile perimeter track around Rutland Water is largely off-road and features gentle inclines, making it suitable for families and cyclists of all ages. A shorter 17-mile option is also available by excluding the Hambleton peninsula.

Many routes offer views of Rutland Water itself, including the iconic Normanton Church on its south shore. You might also encounter the impressive Welland Viaduct on routes like the Eyebrook Reservoir – Welland Viaduct loop from Empingham, or pass by the Eyebrook Reservoir.

You'll find various amenities along the routes, especially around Rutland Water. Cafes are available at Normanton and Whitwell, and pubs like The Horse & Jockey at Manton offer refreshment stops. Many charming villages also have local pubs and shops.

Yes, bike hire is readily available. Rutland Cycling, for instance, offers a variety of bikes including hybrids, mountain bikes, children's cycles, and electric bikes, with locations such as Whitwell.

Absolutely. Many of the routes in Rutland are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A prime example is the Lyndon Village – Rutland Water South Shore loop from Rutland, which offers stunning views of the reservoir.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Rutland, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 120 ratings. Reviewers often praise the quiet roads, the stunning countryside views, and the well-maintained paths around Rutland Water, making it an ideal destination for traffic-free cycling.

While many routes are shorter, Rutland also offers longer options for experienced cyclists. For example, the Newbold Manor Sector – Owston Lane loop from Oakham covers approximately 93 km, and the Eyebrook Reservoir – Welland Viaduct loop from Empingham is around 84 km.

Yes, Rutland has several easy routes perfect for beginners. The Empingham Village – The Bull Climb loop from Oakham is classified as easy, offering a pleasant 40 km ride with manageable elevation changes. The 17-mile option around Rutland Water is also a great choice for those new to road cycling.

Rutland is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions for cycling. The mild weather and vibrant natural colours enhance the experience. Summer is also popular, though routes can be busier. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially wet conditions.