The best traffic-free bike rides around Lincolnshire

This guide features 12 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Lincolnshire, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find 8 easy routes, 3 moderate, and 1 difficult option.

Yes, Lincolnshire offers several easy, traffic-free routes perfect for beginners and families. The flat fenlands, such as those around Spalding and Boston, provide low-impact cycling. A prime example is the Des Plaines River Trail – Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds loop, which is rated easy and offers a gentle ride. The Georgie Twigg Track, connecting Doddington Hall to Lincoln, is also a smooth, traffic-free path suitable for all ages and abilities.

The no-traffic touring routes in Lincolnshire vary in length and duration. For instance, the Des Plaines River Trail – Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds loop is about 16.8 km (10.4 miles) and takes around 1 hour 26 minutes. Longer options, like the Independence Grove Lake – Des Plaines River Trail loop, cover approximately 40.4 km (25.1 miles) and can take over 3.5 hours to complete.

Lincolnshire's quiet cycling routes offer a diverse range of landscapes. You can experience the rolling hills and quiet country lanes of the Lincolnshire Wolds, the flat and easy fenlands with views across rivers, or picturesque coastal paths. Woodland areas like Willingham Woods also provide tranquil, family-friendly rides.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For example, the Independence Grove Lake – Des Plaines River Trail loop is a circular route that offers a varied touring experience.

Along these routes, you can discover various attractions. The Des Plaines River Trail – Half Day Forest Preserve offers natural beauty, while the Des Plaines River bridge provides a notable landmark. Other highlights include the tranquil MacArthur Woods Forest Preserve and the serene Dam Number 1 Woods. The Water Rail Way also features a sculpture trail inspired by Alfred Lord Tennyson.

Yes, many popular starting points for quiet cycling routes in Lincolnshire, especially those near larger towns or attractions like Doddington Hall, offer designated parking facilities. It's always advisable to check specific route details for parking information before you set out.

Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for no-traffic bike tours in Lincolnshire, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, the autumn months can also be beautiful, with vibrant foliage, especially in areas like the Lincolnshire Wolds. Always check the local weather forecast before your ride.

While many cycle paths are suitable for cyclists, specific regulations regarding dogs can vary. Generally, dogs on leads are permitted in many public outdoor spaces and on shared-use paths. Always check local signage or specific trail guidelines, especially within nature reserves or protected areas, to ensure your dog is welcome.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Lincolnshire, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the routes, the diverse scenery, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable, traffic-free rides.

Access to some no-traffic routes via public transport is possible, particularly those that connect to larger towns like Lincoln or Boston. For example, the Water Rail Way runs between Lincoln and Boston. However, public transport options may be limited for more rural trailheads. It's recommended to research specific bus or train routes that allow bicycles for your chosen starting point.

Yes, Lincolnshire offers options for longer, traffic-free touring. The Water Rail Way provides a substantial, largely traffic-free route between Lincoln and Boston. Additionally, the Lindsey Trail is a 69-mile route that traverses the Lincolnshire Wolds, suitable for cyclists seeking a longer journey on quiet paths and lanes.