The best cycling routes around Erewash

Erewash offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 200 routes available on komoot. These range from easy, family-friendly rides to more challenging, long-distance adventures.

The terrain in Erewash is quite varied, featuring extensive networks of traffic-free paths along canal towpaths and former railway lines, which are generally flat. You'll also find routes through rural and urban scenery, with some gentle inclines in other areas, particularly around local nature reserves.

Erewash's cycling routes, especially the traffic-free paths like the Nutbrook Trail and Great Northern Greenway, are accessible year-round. However, the spring and summer months offer the most pleasant weather for enjoying the diverse landscapes and spotting wildlife along the waterways and in nature reserves.

Yes, Erewash is well-suited for families and beginners, with over 80 easy touring cycling routes. Many of these follow flat, traffic-free paths like the Erewash Canal Towpath or the Nutbrook Trail, offering safe and enjoyable rides. The Manor Floods Nature Reserve – Shipley Country Park loop from Sandiacre is an easy 17.6-mile option.

Absolutely. For those seeking a greater challenge, Erewash has over 40 difficult touring cycling routes. These often cover longer distances and may include more varied terrain. An example is the 51.2 km Breadsall Greenway – Derwent Valley Riverside Path loop from Ilkeston, which offers a more demanding ride.

Yes, many of Erewash's touring cycling routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The 30-mile Erewash Valley Trail, for instance, is a circular route that can be adapted into shorter loops. The Trent Lock – Attenborough Nature Reserve loop from Sandiacre is a popular circular option.

Erewash's routes are rich with natural beauty and historical landmarks. You can cycle past the historic Trent Lock, explore the tranquil St Chad's Water Nature Reserve, or enjoy the scenic Swan Lake at Straw's Bridge. The impressive Bennerley Viaduct, known as the 'Iron Giant,' also offers a unique cycling experience with views of the wildlife below.

Yes, the Erewash Canal Towpath is a significant feature, running for 11.5 miles and forming part of National Cycle Route 67, offering a traffic-free route. The Erewash Valley Trail also follows both the River Erewash and the Erewash Canal. The Erewash Canal Towpath – Nottingham Canal loop from Long Eaton is an excellent route for experiencing these waterways.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 200 reviews. Reviewers often praise the peaceful canal towpaths, the abundance of wildlife, and the well-maintained, traffic-free paths that make for a relaxing and scenic ride.

While specific routes aren't designated 'dog-friendly' for cycling, many of the canal towpaths and former railway lines in Erewash are popular with walkers and cyclists with dogs. Always ensure your dog is on a lead and under control, and be mindful of other path users. The Nutbrook Trail and Erewash Canal Towpath are generally suitable for this.

Many of the popular trailheads and nature reserves in Erewash offer dedicated parking facilities. For instance, areas around the Erewash Canal Towpath, Nutbrook Trail, and Shipley Country Park often have parking available. It's advisable to check local council websites or specific route information for detailed parking locations.

Yes, Erewash's routes often pass through or near towns and villages where you can find pubs and cafes. Historic locations like Trent Lock, a former transport hub, are known for having establishments nearby. The Erewash Canal Towpath, in particular, offers several points where you can easily access local amenities for refreshments.