The best MTB trails around Harlaxton

There are over 20 mountain bike trails available around Harlaxton, offering a variety of experiences from gentle towpath rides to more challenging routes in the rolling hills of the Vale of Belvoir.

The terrain varies significantly. You'll find largely flat, accessible towpaths along the Grantham Canal, suitable for mountain bikes with off-road tires. Further afield, in the Vale of Belvoir, routes feature rolling hills, rural tracks, and some pronounced elevation changes, including challenging descents around areas like Belvoir Castle.

Yes, the Grantham Canal towpath offers a largely flat and scenic option that is suitable for families. While some sections can be grassy after wet weather, it provides an accessible route for gentle cycling. For a slightly longer family adventure, consider exploring parts of the From Croxton Kerrial to Belvoir Castle loop, which is rated as moderate but can be adapted for sections.

Many of the rural tracks and public rights of way around Harlaxton and in the Vale of Belvoir are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock. The Grantham Canal towpath is also a popular spot for walkers and cyclists with dogs. Always be mindful of other users and local signage.

You can encounter several interesting sights. The magnificent Belvoir Castle is a prominent feature in many routes, offering stunning views. The historic Grantham Canal itself is a landmark, with features like Woolsthorpe Middle Lock. The picturesque Harlaxton Manor and its extensive parkland also provide a beautiful backdrop to the area.

Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the Belvoir Castle – Woolsthorpe Middle Lock loop from Bottesford is a moderate 60.4 km circular path exploring the wider area. Another option is the Belvoir Castle – Woolsthorpe Middle Lock loop from Harlaxton Manor, which is a 32.7 km loop through the countryside.

Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking around Harlaxton, with warmer weather and drier trails. Spring is particularly beautiful, with opportunities to experience 'Bluebell Woodland Walks' in the Harlaxton Manor grounds. However, some sections of the Grantham Canal towpath can become grassy and muddy after wet weather, so autumn and winter rides might require more robust tires and caution.

Parking is often available in villages that serve as starting points for routes, such as Bottesford or near Belvoir Castle. For routes closer to Harlaxton, local village parking might be an option, but always check for restrictions and respect private property. The Grantham Canal also has various access points where parking may be available.

Yes, you can find amenities along some routes. Harlaxton Wharf on the Grantham Canal is noted for canal-side lunches. Near Belvoir Castle, you might find options like the Little Treats coffee van at Belvoir Castle. Villages like Bottesford also offer pubs and cafes. It's always a good idea to check opening times in advance.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 20 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from the scenic Grantham Canal to the challenging hills around Belvoir Castle, and the picturesque countryside views.

Yes, there are 8 easy mountain bike trails around Harlaxton. The Grantham Canal towpath is an excellent choice for beginners due to its flat profile. While not exclusively a mountain bike trail, it provides a gentle introduction to off-road cycling in a scenic environment.

While Harlaxton itself is more gentle, the nearby Vale of Belvoir offers more challenging mountain biking. Routes in this area, particularly those traversing the escarpment overlooking the Vale and around Belvoir Castle, can include significant climbs and descents, providing a more demanding experience for advanced riders. There are 13 moderate trails in the wider area, with some offering more technical sections.