The best cycling routes around Sherwood Forest

Sherwood Forest offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 240 different tours available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy to difficult.

You can expect diverse terrain, including extensive woodlands with well-maintained off-road tracks and bridleways, providing traffic-free routes. While much of the area is relatively flat, some routes feature physically demanding hills that offer rewarding freewheeling descents. You'll encounter spectacular forest and lakeside views, as well as ancient trees.

Yes, Sherwood Forest is very welcoming for beginners and families. There are nearly 100 easy touring cycling routes available. Many routes, like the Geese and Goslings by the Pond – Dog & Duck Pub loop from Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve, are designed to be gentle and enjoyable for all ages, often following well-maintained off-road tracks.

Sherwood Forest is rich in natural landmarks. You can cycle past iconic ancient trees like The Major Oak, famous for its connection to Robin Hood, and the Medusa Oak. Many routes also offer picturesque forest and lakeside views, and you might even spot English Longhorn Cattle on Budby Heath.

Absolutely. Beyond the natural beauty, you can incorporate visits to historic sites such as the 12th-century ruins of Rufford Abbey. The area's rich history, tied to the legend of Robin Hood, adds a unique cultural dimension to any touring cycling trip.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Sherwood Forest are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the North Leverton Windmill – Hazel Gap Sculpture loop from Sherwood Forest NNR and the Budby Waterworks Reservoir – Hazel Gap Sculpture loop from Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve.

Yes, Sherwood Pines Forest Park is a popular hub for cyclists. It offers three way-marked trails suitable for touring, along with bike hire facilities. The Adventure Pine route, approximately 20 miles long, largely follows well-maintained off-road tracks within the park and surrounding areas.

Bike hire is conveniently available at locations such as Sherwood Pines Cycles within Sherwood Pines Forest Park, making it easy for visitors who don't have their own equipment to explore the area.

The touring cycling routes in Sherwood Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 300 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet woodlands, well-maintained paths, and the scenic beauty of the forest and lakeside views.

Route lengths vary significantly to suit different preferences. You can find shorter, easy routes around 10-15 km, such as the Geese and Goslings by the Pond – Dog & Duck Pub loop (11.7 km). There are also moderate routes like the Clumber Lake – Budby South Forest Trail loop from Edwinstowe (38.8 km), and longer, more challenging tours exceeding 90 km, like the North Leverton Windmill – Hazel Gap Sculpture loop (92.8 km).

While specific public transport links directly to all trailheads can vary, the region is generally accessible. For detailed information on bus routes or train stations that connect to the Sherwood Forest area, it's best to check local transport provider websites or resources like visitsherwood.co.uk for the most current advice on reaching the forest without a car.

There are various parking facilities available at key access points and visitor centers throughout Sherwood Forest, including at Sherwood Pines Forest Park and the Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve. These often provide convenient starting points for cycling routes. It's advisable to check specific visitor attraction websites for parking details and any associated fees.