The best MTB trails around Leighfield

Leighfield offers over 35 mountain bike trails, providing a variety of options for exploring the area's historical woodlands and open rural terrain.

Yes, Leighfield has 11 easy mountain bike trails. An example is the Horse and Jockey Inn – Normanton Church loop from Oakham, which is 17.8 miles long and offers open views.

The trails in Leighfield are primarily easy to moderate. There are no trails officially rated as difficult, making the area more suitable for casual rides through its tranquil, rural landscape.

Leighfield's historical woodlands and open fields are enjoyable throughout the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while winter rides can be tranquil, though some paths might be muddy.

Many of the mountain bike routes in Leighfield are circular. For instance, the Gartree Road Crossroads – Goadby Road Gravel Track loop from Horninghold is a moderate 20.5-mile loop, and the View of Rutland Water – Rutland Water Cycle Route loop from Oakham is an 11.7-mile easy loop.

While mountain biking, you can encounter several interesting sights. Near Rutland Water, you might pass by the iconic Normanton Church or enjoy views of Rutland Water itself. The area also features the impressive Welland Viaduct and the serene Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland.

The mountain bike routes in Leighfield are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 80 reviews. Riders often appreciate the tranquil setting, historical woodlands, and varied rural paths.

Yes, many of the easy-rated trails are suitable for families. The routes around Rutland Water, such as the View of Rutland Water – Rutland Water Cycle Route loop from Oakham, are generally flat and well-suited for a family outing.

Some routes, like the Horse and Jockey Inn – Normanton Church loop from Oakham, start or end near local establishments, offering a convenient stop for refreshments after your ride. The region's small villages often have traditional pubs.

Trail lengths vary, with options ranging from shorter rides to longer excursions. For example, the View of Rutland Water – Rutland Water Cycle Route loop from Oakham is 11.7 miles, while the Rutland Water Dam – Normanton Church loop from Oakham extends to 23.4 miles.

While specific parking areas for mountain biking are not widely advertised for Leighfield itself, many routes start from nearby towns like Oakham or Horninghold, where public parking facilities are available. It's advisable to check parking options for your chosen starting point.

Yes, given the open nature of the landscape and proximity to Rutland Water, several routes offer scenic viewpoints. The View of Rutland Water – Rutland Water Cycle Route loop from Oakham, as its name suggests, provides excellent vistas of the reservoir and surrounding countryside.