The best MTB trails around Sturton Le Steeple
4.8
(7)
41
riders
13
rides
Mountain biking around Sturton Le Steeple offers varied terrain, from the River Trent's floodplain to low hills running parallel to the river. This topography provides diverse routes for exploration. The area features firm ground and picturesque rural landscapes, including red-brick properties and outlying farms. Nearby natural features like the Idle Valley Nature Reserve further enhance the outdoor experience for mountain bikers.
Best mountain bike trails around Sturton Le Steeple
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Littleborough Road Toll House – Catchwater Drain Bridge loop from South Leverton, a 11.7 miles (18.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 14 minutes to complete. This easy route offers a gentle introduction to the local landscape.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Catchwater Drain Bridge – Littleborough Road Toll House loop from Dunham-on-Trent, a moderate 18.5 miles (29.8 km) path. This route features a slightly longer distance and moderate elevation changes.
- Local mountain bikers also love the Wooden Bridge Over River – Idle Valley Nature Reserve loop from Retford, a 16.9 miles (27.1 km) trail leading through the Idle Valley Nature Reserve, often completed in about 1 hour 57 minutes.
- Mountain biking around Sturton Le Steeple is defined by varied terrain, low hills, and proximity to the River Trent and Idle Valley Nature Reserve. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy rides to more moderate routes.
- The routes in Sturton Le Steeple are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.75 stars from more than 5 reviews. More than 30 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Sturton Le Steeple's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
5.0
(1)
5
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
6
riders
27.1km
01:57
130m
130m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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3
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
37.2km
02:05
110m
110m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
7
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This place is really in the middle of nowhere, it's at the junction of Thornhill Lane and Littleborough Road. It can't be missed because there's nutting else there. What makes it special is its unique six sided shape. Definitely a place of note and worth a photo.
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I believe this used to be a coal power station that was decommissioned in 2019. The cooling towers are quite impressive, and the wide gravel track passes very close to them.
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Gainsborough Old Hall in Gainsborough, Lincolnshire is over five hundred years old and one of the best preserved medieval manor houses in England. The hall was built by Sir Thomas Burgh in 1460. The Burghs were rich, flamboyant and powerful. Gainsborough Old Hall was not only their home, but also a demonstration of their wealth and importance. Burgh was a benefactor to Newark Church and also the founder of the Chantry and Alms House at Gainsborough. In 1470, the manor was attacked by Sir Robert Welles over a clash about lands, status, and honour, but it was not severely damaged. In 1484 Thomas entertained King Richard III in his hall. Henry VIII visited Gainsborough twice: once in 1509, and again in 1541 with his fifth wife, Queen Catherine Howard. The Queen was accused of indiscretions both at Gainsborough and Lincoln, and she was later executed.
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A Georgian style church with medieval tower and a magnificent interior, the altar piece is a copy of the Da Vinci painting of the Last Supper. The first reference to a church in Gainsborough was in 1180 when it was given by Roger de Talbot, Lord of the Manor of Gainsborough to the Knights Templar of Willoughton. However, by 1730 this church was considered 'too dark and mean and incommodious' to suit the town's growing population and the decision was made to build a new church. Only the 15th century tower remains from the original medieval church.
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Bank side ride of River Idle to Tiln. Grassed hard pan wheel tracks in the summer. Gates to lift over at beginning and end.
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Laughton Forest is a site which was created to meet the demand to restock a depleted timber supply after the First World War. It was planted in the late 1920s, and continues to be managed by the Forestry Commission today. Before this time, the area was mainly open heathland with ponds, small woodlands and shifting sand dunes.The forest still supports a wide range of these habitats, which include many locally and nationally rare plants, animals and birds, including nightjars. The only area where access is permitted is in Tuetoes Wood.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Sturton Le Steeple?
There are 13 mountain bike trails around Sturton Le Steeple. These routes offer varied terrain, from the River Trent's floodplain to low hills, providing diverse options for exploration.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in the area?
Yes, there are several easy mountain bike trails around Sturton Le Steeple. A great option for beginners is the Littleborough Road Toll House – Catchwater Drain Bridge loop from South Leverton, which is 18.8 km long and takes about 1 hour 14 minutes to complete.
What are some moderate mountain bike trails near Sturton Le Steeple?
For those looking for a moderate challenge, the Catchwater Drain Bridge – Littleborough Road Toll House loop from Dunham-on-Trent is a good choice. This route covers 29.8 km with moderate elevation changes, typically taking around 2 hours 2 minutes. Another moderate option is the Wooden Bridge Over River – Idle Valley Nature Reserve loop from Retford, which is 27.1 km long.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes in Sturton Le Steeple?
Many of the mountain bike trails around Sturton Le Steeple are designed as loops, offering convenient circular routes. Examples include the Littleborough Road Toll House – Catchwater Drain Bridge loop and the Chain Bridge Road loop from Retford.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while mountain biking here?
The area around Sturton Le Steeple offers varied landscapes, including the River Trent's floodplain and low hills running parallel to the river. You'll encounter picturesque rural scenery with red-brick properties and outlying farms. The nearby Idle Valley Nature Reserve also provides opportunities for natural scenery appreciation.
Are there any natural attractions or points of interest along the mountain bike trails?
Yes, several routes pass by or near notable natural features. The Wooden Bridge Over River – Idle Valley Nature Reserve loop, for instance, takes you through the significant Idle Valley Nature Reserve, known for its natural beauty. You might also encounter the Idle Bridge Over the River Idle.
What historical landmarks can be explored near the mountain bike routes?
For those interested in history, the Gainsborough Old Hall – Laughton Forest loop from Gainsborough Central can incorporate a visit to the historic Gainsborough Old Hall. Additionally, the Littleborough Road Toll House is a man-made monument that some routes pass by.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Sturton Le Steeple?
The mountain bike trails around Sturton Le Steeple are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars from more than 5 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain and the peaceful rural setting.
Are the mountain bike trails in Sturton Le Steeple suitable for families?
While specific family-friendly designations are not provided for all routes, the presence of several 'easy' graded trails suggests options for families. The gentler terrain of routes like the Littleborough Road Toll House – Catchwater Drain Bridge loop could be suitable for families with some biking experience.
Can I find mountain bike trails that are less crowded in the area?
Sturton Le Steeple is a rural village, and many of its trails offer a tranquil experience away from large crowds. Exploring routes that venture further into the countryside or away from major access points may offer a more secluded ride.
What is the typical duration for mountain bike rides around Sturton Le Steeple?
Ride durations vary depending on the trail and your pace. Easy routes like the Littleborough Road Toll House – Catchwater Drain Bridge loop typically take around 1 hour 14 minutes. Moderate trails, such as the Catchwater Drain Bridge – Littleborough Road Toll House loop, can take approximately 2 hours 2 minutes.
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