The best cycling routes around Barrow Upon Trent

There are over 400 touring cycling routes around Barrow Upon Trent, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. This includes 191 easy routes, 179 moderate routes, and 46 difficult routes.

The landscape around Barrow Upon Trent is characterized by a tranquil, pastoral scene with gentle rolling fields, modest woodlands, and the prominent presence of the River Trent and the Trent & Mersey Canal. The terrain around the village itself is largely flat, making it accessible for various cycling abilities, especially along the waterways.

Yes, Barrow Upon Trent offers many easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. A great example is the Swarkestone Lock – Cloud Trail loop from Chellaston, which is an easy 17.5 km path providing views of Swarkestone Lock and following parts of the Trent & Mersey Canal towpath. The Trent & Mersey Canal towpath itself is part of National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 6 and offers a relatively flat and traffic-free experience.

While much of the area is gentle, there are routes that offer more elevation gain. For instance, the Cloud Trail – Garendon Way loop from Barrow upon Trent is a moderate 48.6 km route with over 300 meters of elevation gain, incorporating varied scenery through the local countryside.

Yes, the Trent & Mersey Canal towpath is an excellent option for touring cyclists. It forms part of National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 6, providing a relatively flat, traffic-free, and scenic route. You can cycle north towards Derby or east towards Loughborough and beyond, enjoying the peaceful waterways.

Cyclists can explore several historical landmarks. The stunning medieval Swarkestone Bridge, a Grade I-listed structure, is easily accessible. You can also visit Elvaston Castle and Gardens, a Gothic Revival castle set within extensive parkland. Another interesting spot is Anchor Church Caves, naturally formed caves along the River Trent.

Absolutely. The area boasts beautiful natural features. You can cycle through the Deer Park at Calke Abbey, which offers a picturesque setting. The River Trent itself provides a constant natural companion on many routes, and you can find tranquil spots along its banks. Heath Wood, a small copse, also offers a shaded contrast to open fields.

Yes, the flat and traffic-free routes, particularly along the Trent & Mersey Canal towpath and within places like Elvaston Castle and Gardens, are ideal for families. The gentle terrain around Barrow Upon Trent makes it a great place for cyclists of all ages to enjoy together.

Many of the touring cycling routes around Barrow Upon Trent are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. Examples include the Cloud Trail – Garendon Way loop from Barrow upon Trent and the Swarkestone Lock – London Road Underpass Mural loop from Chellaston.

Yes, the area has several cafes and pubs that cater to cyclists. You can find spots like the Skinny Kitten Cafe or Meaks Coffee Shop mentioned in local routes, and Stenson Lock Marina – Nades Café & Bar loop from Findern CP specifically highlights a cafe stop. Many villages along the routes will also offer options.

The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Barrow Upon Trent, with milder weather and the countryside in full bloom. The gentle terrain means routes are accessible for much of the year, but checking local weather forecasts is always advisable.

The touring cycling routes around Barrow Upon Trent are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 450 reviews. Cyclists often praise the tranquil pastoral scenery, the accessible flat paths along the waterways, and the variety of routes that cater to different abilities.