The best traffic-free bike rides around Great Oxendon

There are 8 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Great Oxendon, ranging from easy to difficult. Most of these are of moderate difficulty, offering a good balance for various skill levels.

The routes primarily utilize the National Cycle Route 6, which incorporates the Brampton Valley Way. This former railway line offers a flat, traffic-free path, notable for passing through the historic Kelmarsh Tunnels and Oxendon Tunnel, providing a unique adventurous element to your ride.

Yes, the Brampton Valley Way section of National Cycle Route 6 is generally flat and traffic-free, making it suitable for families. The route Kelmarsh Tunnels – Oxendon Road (Gravel Path) loop from Arthingworth is specifically rated as easy, perfect for a relaxed family outing.

The terrain varies. While the Brampton Valley Way is largely flat, some sections, particularly north of the A5199 at the Windhover, can be gravel and a bit bumpy. Other routes may include gentle ascents and descents through the scenic countryside, as seen in tours like View of the River Ise Valley – Great Hill Climb loop from Great Oxendon.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For instance, you can enjoy the Welland Park – Foxton Swing Bridge loop from Great Oxendon, which offers a moderate challenge over 25.6 km, or the Battle of Naseby Memorial – The Source of the River Avon loop from Great Oxendon.

Along the routes, you can explore historical features like the Kelmarsh Tunnels. A short detour can lead you to the impressive Foxton Locks, a 200-year-old engineering marvel with pubs, cafes, and a museum. The St Andrew's Church, Arthingworth is also a notable landmark nearby.

Yes, particularly around popular spots like Foxton Locks, where you'll find pubs and cafes. Market Harborough, a town connected by National Cycle Route 6, also offers various amenities.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from 168 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the unique experience of cycling through the old railway tunnels, and the scenic countryside views.

While Great Oxendon itself is a linear village, nearby towns like Market Harborough are well-connected by public transport. From there, you can easily access sections of the National Cycle Route 6 and other local routes.

Parking is available at various points along the Brampton Valley Way, which forms a significant part of the no-traffic network. Specific parking areas can be found near access points to the National Cycle Route 6, particularly where it intersects with main roads or near towns like Market Harborough.

For those seeking a longer ride, the Oxendon Road (Gravel Path) – View of the River Ise Valley loop from Arthingworth covers over 32 km and is rated moderate. The extensive network of the Brampton Valley Way also allows for longer, continuous rides, connecting to areas like Northampton.