The best traffic-free bike rides in North West Leicestershire

North West Leicestershire offers a wide selection of traffic-free road cycling routes. There are over 170 routes available, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.

The region provides a diverse landscape for road cycling. You'll find routes with gentle gradients, particularly along canal towpaths and designated cycle paths within the National Forest. However, areas like Charnwood Forest feature rolling hills and more significant elevation changes, offering a greater challenge. Routes like the Ashby-de-la-Zouch to Leicestershire's Highest Point loop include notable climbs.

Yes, North West Leicestershire has many easy and family-friendly traffic-free road cycling routes. Over 60 routes are rated as easy, often utilizing well-maintained paths through the National Forest or along canal systems. These routes are perfect for a relaxed ride. An example of an easy route is the Derby Lane loop from Appleby Magna.

While many routes are moderate, there are a few more challenging options for experienced road cyclists seeking significant elevation gain and longer distances. The Ashby-de-la-Zouch to Leicestershire's Highest Point loop, for instance, covers over 54 km with more than 440 meters of ascent, providing a good workout.

You'll cycle through diverse landscapes including the ancient woodlands and serene lakes of the National Forest, such as Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park. The region also features parts of Charnwood Forest with its rolling hills, and riverside meadows near the River Trent and River Soar. Keep an eye out for viewpoints like the View of Bardon Hill Quarry.

Yes, several routes pass by or near historical sites. You can explore the ruins of Ashby de la Zouch Castle, visit Moira Furnace and Canal, or admire the architecture of Mount St Bernard Abbey. The Redburn Lane – Ashby de la Zouch Castle loop is a great option to combine cycling with history.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience in North West Leicestershire, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Cyclists often praise the tranquility of the traffic-free routes, the varied scenery through the National Forest, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable rides.

Many of the no traffic road cycling routes in North West Leicestershire are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. This makes planning your ride and parking more convenient. Examples include the Whitemoors Tea Room – Shenton Village loop from Heather and the Cloud Trail – Swarkestone Lock loop.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery as the foliage changes. Summer is also popular, but routes can be busier. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for colder weather and potentially wet or icy conditions on some paths.

Yes, many routes pass through or near villages and towns where you can find pubs, cafes, and accommodation. The region is well-equipped to welcome cyclists, with options ranging from quaint tea rooms to traditional pubs for a post-ride refreshment. The Whitemoors Tea Room – Shenton Village loop even highlights a specific tea room.

Many popular starting points for traffic-free routes, especially those within the National Forest or near towns like Ashby-de-la-Zouch, offer dedicated parking facilities. While public transport options vary, some routes are accessible via local bus services. It's advisable to check specific route details for the most convenient parking or public transport access.