The best cycling routes around Empingham

There are over 290 touring cycling routes around Empingham, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. This includes 75 easy routes, 152 moderate routes, and 63 difficult routes.

Yes, Empingham offers many easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Rutland Water Cycle Path – Rutland Water Nature Reserve loop from Empingham is an easy 14.7 km path that follows a dedicated cycle path through the nature reserve. Another gentle option is the Rutland Water Dam – Rutland Water Dam loop from Edith Weston, which is just under 5 km with minimal elevation gain.

For those seeking a challenge, the Empingham area provides several difficult touring cycling routes. A notable option is the extensive View of Rutland Water – Rutland Water Dam loop from Empingham, which spans over 108 km and features significant elevation changes, requiring very good fitness. The region's rolling countryside also offers routes exceeding five hours and 3,000 ft. of elevation, some of which may include unpaved segments.

Many touring cycling routes around Empingham are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular View of Rutland Water – Hambleton Peninsula Loop loop from Whitwell, which offers expansive views across Rutland Water, and the shorter View of Rutland Water – Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland loop from Empingham, leading through woodlands.

The touring cycling routes around Empingham offer diverse sights. You can enjoy expansive views of Rutland Water, one of Europe's largest artificial lakes, and pass through the Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland. Other notable landmarks include the historic Normanton Church, often referred to as the 'Church in the Water', and the impressive Welland Viaduct.

Yes, beyond the natural beauty, you'll find several points of interest. Rutland Water itself is a major attraction, with its extensive perimeter paths. Nearby, you can explore Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland, and the renowned Barnsdale Gardens, created by Geoff Hamilton, which features Britain's largest collection of individually designed gardens. The charming villages like Exton, with its historic Exton Hall parkland, also offer delightful stops.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Touring cyclists often praise the tranquil country lanes, the stunning views of Rutland Water, and the variety of routes that cater to different abilities, from easy lakeside loops to more challenging regional explorations.

While Empingham is primarily accessed by car, some local bus services connect to nearby towns and villages around Rutland Water. However, for direct access to specific trailheads, especially for carrying bikes, personal transport is generally more convenient. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for routes that might accommodate bicycles.

Parking is generally available at various points around Rutland Water and in Empingham village. Specific car parks are often located near popular access points for the Rutland Water cycling paths, such as Whitwell or the Rutland Water Dam area. Many villages also offer public parking facilities, though availability may vary.

The best season for touring cycling around Empingham is typically spring through autumn, when the weather is milder and the landscapes are vibrant. Spring offers the beauty of blooming wildflowers, including the bluebells in Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while autumn showcases beautiful foliage. Winter cycling is possible, but routes may be colder and potentially muddier, especially on unpaved sections.

Yes, the area around Empingham and Rutland Water is generally bike-friendly. You'll find cafes and refreshment stops in villages along the routes and at key points around Rutland Water. For instance, the Bythams Community Shop & Cafe is one such facility that caters to visitors.