The best cycling routes around Measham

There are over 220 touring cycling routes around Measham, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. The komoot community has explored more than 3000 of these routes, with an average rating of 4.7 stars.

The terrain around Measham is diverse, largely shaped by the National Forest's transformation of former industrial sites into thriving woodlands and green spaces. You'll find well-maintained trails on former railway lines, tranquil canal towpaths, and paths through regenerated forests. The area generally features gentle elevation changes, making it accessible for various touring cycling experiences.

Yes, Measham offers many easy touring cycling routes, with 70 routes specifically graded as easy. The Moira Furnace – Moira Furnace and Canal loop from Measham is a popular easy option, following the tranquil Ashby Canal. Additionally, the Ashby Woulds Heritage Trail, a 7.2-mile off-road route on a former railway line, is excellent for cyclists of varying abilities and families.

Measham is nestled within the National Forest, offering a rich tapestry of natural features. You can cycle through ancient woodlands, newly planted trees, and wildflower meadows. Notable areas include Sence Valley Forest Park, a reclaimed opencast coal mining site now a haven for wildlife, and Saltersford Valley, a nature reserve with native woodlands and a boardwalk accessing a lake. The tranquil Ashby Canal is also rich in wildlife, including herons and kingfishers.

Absolutely! You can explore a blend of historical and recreational attractions. The Conkers Waterside – Moira Furnace loop from Measham takes you near the historic Moira Furnace, a 19th-century iron-making blast furnace, and the Conkers National Forest Centre. Other highlights include the Deer Park at Calke Abbey and the Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, routes like the Shenton Village – Congerstone Canal Bridge loop from Measham cover nearly 48 km. The region's network of trails, including canal towpaths and former railway lines, allows for extended journeys connecting various villages and natural sites within the National Forest.

Measham is enjoyable for touring cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while some routes, particularly those on well-maintained paths like former railway lines, can be suitable even in milder winter conditions.

Many of the touring cycling routes around Measham are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Winfields Outdoors – Donisthorpe Woodland Park loop from Oakthorpe and Donisthorpe is a moderate circular route that explores woodland areas.

Measham and its surrounding attractions often provide dedicated parking facilities. For instance, the Measham Leisure Centre serves as a cycling hub and likely offers parking. Major attractions like Moira Furnace and Conkers National Forest Centre also have visitor parking, which can serve as convenient starting points for nearby routes.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Measham, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 140 reviews. Reviewers often praise the peaceful canal towpaths, the regenerated woodlands of the National Forest, and the well-maintained trails on former railway lines, highlighting the area's accessibility and scenic beauty.

While Measham is well-connected by road, public transport options for accessing specific trailheads may vary. It's advisable to check local bus services that connect Measham to surrounding villages and attractions. Some routes, particularly those along the Ashby Canal, might be accessible from various points along its length.

Yes, Hicks Lodge National Forest Cycle Centre is a dedicated cycling center nearby, offering a range of trails suitable for various skill levels, along with a café and visitor center. Measham itself also promotes cycling with a hub at the Measham Leisure Centre, providing access to bikes, helmets, and maps for local trails.