The best MTB trails around South Derbyshire

South Derbyshire offers a network of over 35 mountain bike trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, with a good mix of easy and moderate options.

Yes, South Derbyshire has 19 easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. A great option is the Foremark Reservoir to Robin Wood loop, which is 16.5 miles long and explores woodlands and reservoir surroundings. Another easy route is the Calke Abbey – Gravel Path in Calke Park loop from Ticknall CP, offering a shorter 5.8-mile ride.

For riders seeking a bit more challenge, there are 18 moderate mountain bike routes available. The Robin Wood – Shell Brook Trail loop from Bretby is a popular choice, covering 32.6 miles with a mix of forest tracks and open sections. Another moderate option is the Brick Lane Climb – Lount Woods Trail loop from Ticknall CP, which is 19.6 miles long.

Currently, the routes listed in South Derbyshire are categorized as easy or moderate. There are no trails specifically rated as difficult, making the area more suitable for casual riders, families, and those building their skills.

Many of the easy trails in South Derbyshire are suitable for families. Routes that follow former railway lines or canal paths, like sections of the Donisthorpe Woodland Park – Moira Furnace and Canal loop from Swadlincote, offer flatter, less technical terrain. The Calke Double Gate – Calke Park Tramway Trail loop from Ticknall CP is also a good short, easy option.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking in South Derbyshire, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also good, but trails can be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions and shorter daylight hours, especially on unpaved sections.

Yes, South Derbyshire features several longer routes for those looking for an extended ride. The Robin Wood – Shell Brook Trail loop from Bretby is a substantial 32.6-mile route, and the Shell Brook Trail – Hicks Lodge Trail Centre loop from Woodville covers nearly 30.7 miles, offering a good challenge.

Many of the mountain bike routes in South Derbyshire are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Foremark Reservoir to Robin Wood loop and the Brick Lane Climb – Robin Wood loop from Hartshorne.

South Derbyshire's trails often pass by interesting natural and historical sites. You might encounter the Deer Park at Calke Abbey, the historic Swarkestone Lock on the Trent & Mersey Canal, or the tranquil Staunton Harold Reservoir. The Swarkestone Lock – Trent & Mersey Canal Towpath loop from Barrow upon Trent is a good route to explore the canal area.

The mountain bike trails in South Derbyshire are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 stars from over 50 reviews. Riders frequently praise the varied terrain, from quiet woodlands to scenic reservoir paths, and the accessibility of routes for different skill levels.

Many of the trails that venture into the woodlands and less populated areas, particularly during off-peak times, can offer a quiet riding experience. Routes around areas like Robin Wood or those exploring the canal towpaths away from urban centers, such as the Hicks Lodge Trail Centre – Shell Brook Trail loop from Swadlincote, often provide a peaceful ride.

While specific pub or cafe stops aren't always explicitly listed on every route, many trails pass through or near villages and towns in South Derbyshire where you can find refreshments. Planning your route with komoot allows you to easily identify points of interest, including cafes and pubs, along your chosen path.