The best cycling routes around Brooke
4.5
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3,617
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Touring cycling around Brooke features a landscape characterized by gently rolling countryside and the prominent Rutland Water, offering a mix of lakeside paths and routes connecting local villages. The terrain generally includes moderate elevation changes, suitable for various cycling abilities. This region provides accessible touring cycling routes for exploring the rural environment.
Best touring cycling routes around Brooke
- The most popular touring cycling route is Rutland Water loop from Oakham, a 25.0 miles (40.3 km) trail that takes 2 hours 40 minutes to complete. This moderate route circles Rutland Water, offering scenic views.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Rutland County Boundaries loop, a difficult 59.7 miles (96.0 km) path. This route traverses the county's perimeter, featuring varied terrain and longer distances.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Oakham and Uppingham loop, a 61.1 miles (98.3 km) trail leading through the countryside between these two towns, often completed in about 6 hours 15 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Brooke is defined by rolling countryside, lakeside paths around Rutland Water, and routes connecting historic villages. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy touring bike trails Brooke to more advanced touring bike trails Brooke.
- The routes in Brooke are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 250 reviews. More than 3,500 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Brooke's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 26, 2026
4.7
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1,949
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40.3km
02:41
180m
180m
Embark on a moderate touring bicycle adventure around Rutland Water, starting from Oakham. This 25.0 miles (40.3 km) loop offers a mix of tarmac and gravel paths, taking you through rolling countryside, woodlands, and past the expansive views of England's largest man-made lake. You will encounter gentle undulations for most of the 2 hours and 40 minutes ride, but be prepared for some challenging inclines, especially through Barnsdale Wood and on the Hambleton Peninsula, which add 592 feet (180 metres) of elevation gain. The iconic 18th-century Normanton Church, partially submerged and standing majestically on a peninsula, is a highlight along the way.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the route is largely traffic-free and connects to National Cycle Network route 63 directly from Oakham. You will find ample amenities around the reservoir, including car parks, cafes, and picnic areas, making it easy to refuel or take a break. Bike hire is available at Rutland Cycling in Whitwell, and charming villages like Manton offer pubs such as The Horse & Jockey for refreshments. This trail is suitable for various fitness levels, accommodating both family rides and more experienced touring cyclists.
The Rutland Water loop is particularly notable for its rich natural environment and historical landmarks. The Rutland Water Nature Reserve is a significant feature, providing excellent opportunities for bird-watching, with osprey sightings common between April and September. Beyond the striking Normanton Church, the picturesque Hambleton Peninsula offers superb water views. The largely traffic-free nature of the route ensures a safe and enjoyable cycling experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the diverse scenery and wildlife.
4.0
(1)
2
riders
96.0km
05:59
800m
800m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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98.3km
06:15
950m
950m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(10)
97
riders
28.1km
02:06
130m
130m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
34
riders
47.2km
03:14
290m
290m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Make sure to take the additional peninsular part of the ride though beautiful Hambleton and past Hambleton Hall where we stayed. It has an excellent Michelin Star restaurant open to non residents
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Fantastic 2 -3 hour ride with great views. We went on simple rented electric bikes, not full EMTB, and tbat was great and there are some hilly parts away from the water.
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Well designed sculpture, which provides a nice contrast to the pretty natural surroundings (though the immediate area here close to the parking is a bit more 'designed' than other parts along the coast.
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Ride anticlockwise from Whitwell car park, visit Picks Barn Cafe for refreshments
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To build the railway here cretainly was a challenge for the engineers and builders - a lot of tunnels and slopes to overcome. In the end it looks great to see how the railway winds through this landscape.
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The castle was built between 1180 and 1190 by Walkelin de Ferrers, lord of the manor of Oakham, and a great nephew of Robert de Ferrers, 1st Earl of Derby.[1] The Great Hall comprises a nave and two arcaded aisles, each with three large stone columns. There are a number of 12th-century sculptures decorating the hall including six musicians that are supported by the columns. The sculptures are carved from local stone quarried at Clipsham and are believed to have been made by masons who had also worked at Canterbury Cathedral.[2]
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In the second half of 1979 the International Arts Foundation commissioned the sculptor Alexander to produce a large-scale sculpture for Rutland Water. The cost was £50,000 and the site chosen by the landscape artist who designed Rutland Water was the then rather bleak Sykes Lane picnic site. It was cast in London and was then the largest bronze sculpture of modern times.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Brooke?
There are over 200 touring cycling routes available around Brooke, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
What is the overall difficulty level of touring cycling routes in Brooke?
The routes in Brooke offer a good mix of difficulties. You'll find approximately 45 easy routes, 109 moderate routes, and 52 difficult routes, catering to beginners and experienced cyclists alike.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Brooke?
Yes, Brooke offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. A great option is the Lagoon 4 Track – Rutland Water Cycle Route loop from Oakham, which is 28.0 km long with minimal elevation gain, making it very accessible.
Can I find challenging touring cycling routes in Brooke?
Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, routes like the Rutland County Boundaries loop, spanning 96.0 km with significant elevation, or the Oakham and Uppingham loop at 98.3 km, provide a demanding experience for advanced touring cyclists.
Are there circular touring cycling routes around Brooke?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Brooke are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The popular Rutland Water loop from Oakham is a prime example, offering scenic views as you circle the reservoir.
What can I see along the touring cycling routes in Brooke?
The routes often pass by significant landmarks and natural beauty. You can explore attractions such as the iconic Normanton Church, the vast Rutland Water, and the impressive Welland Viaduct. Some routes also lead through areas like Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Brooke?
The best time for touring cycling in Brooke is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and the countryside is at its most vibrant, offering pleasant conditions for longer rides.
Are there any routes that focus on Rutland Water?
Yes, Rutland Water is a central feature of the region's cycling. The Rutland Water loop from Oakham and the Rutland Water Nature Reserve – Rutland Water Cycle Path loop from Oakham are excellent choices for exploring the reservoir's perimeter and its natural surroundings.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Brooke?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 250 reviews. Reviewers often praise the scenic lakeside paths, the gently rolling countryside, and the well-maintained routes connecting charming local villages.
Are the touring cycling routes in Brooke generally dog-friendly?
While many routes are on public paths, it's essential to keep dogs on a lead, especially around livestock or nature reserves like Rutland Water. Always check specific route details and local signage for any restrictions regarding dogs.
Are there places to stop for refreshments or cafes along the touring cycling routes?
Many routes pass through or near villages and towns such as Oakham and Uppingham, where you can find cafes, pubs, and shops for refreshments. The areas around Rutland Water also have visitor centers and eateries catering to cyclists.
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