The best cycling routes around Thornton Reservoir
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Touring cycling routes around Thornton Reservoir offer a network of paths suitable for various abilities. The area is characterized by the reservoir itself, surrounded by open countryside and gentle, rolling hills. Routes often feature a mix of paved surfaces and well-maintained tracks, providing accessible cycling experiences. The landscape includes views across the water and through adjacent rural areas.
Best touring cycling routes around Thornton Reservoir
- The most popular touring cycling route is Thornton Reservoir – Market Bosworth Country Park loop from Bagworth & Thornton, a 27.2 miles (43.8 km) trail that takes 2 hours 40 minutes to complete, traversing varied countryside and parkland.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Thornton Reservoir – Thornton Reservoir loop from Markfield, an easy 7.5 miles (12.1 km) path, offering direct views of the reservoir and its surroundings.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Bagworth Park loop from Bagworth & Thornton, a 14.2 miles (22.9 km) trail leading through rural parkland and open fields, often completed in about 1 hour 24 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Thornton Reservoir is defined by reservoir-side paths, open countryside, and gentle hills. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging routes with moderate elevation gains.
- The routes in Thornton Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 99 reviews. More than 1000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Thornton Reservoir's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
4.8
(5)
3
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
4
riders
12.1km
00:45
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
3
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
19.1km
01:11
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Nice to visit but no cafe at the Marina, plenty half a mile up the hill in Market Bosworth
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Bosworth Marina is a relatively recent addition to the area, with its development and opening in 2012. The site was originally a location for industrial activities, including a timber fireproofing plant that operated from 1919 to 2002. The marina now provides canal boat berths for tourism, moorings, and short-term occupation, connected to the Ashby-de-la-Zouch Canal.
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One of the best cycling coffee and cakes shops. Tracey makes many of the cakes herself.
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Market Bosworth is famously near to the site of the decisive final battle of the Wars of the Roses. The Battle of Bosworth occurred just south of the town in 1485, marking the conclusive and significant clash in the Wars of the Roses between the House of Lancaster and the House of York. This historic engagement ultimately led to the demise of King Richard III. The town is also known for its beautiful flower displays in the Leicestershire in Bloom competition.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Thornton Reservoir?
There are over 170 touring cycling routes around Thornton Reservoir, offering a wide range of options for different abilities and preferences. Approximately 64 of these are considered easy, 95 moderate, and 12 difficult.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Thornton Reservoir?
The routes around Thornton Reservoir feature a mix of surfaces, including paved paths and well-maintained tracks. You'll experience views across the reservoir, open countryside, and gentle, rolling hills, providing a varied and accessible cycling experience.
Are there any easy, family-friendly touring cycling routes around Thornton Reservoir?
Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for families. A great option is the Thornton Reservoir – Thornton Reservoir loop from Markfield, which is an easy 7.5 miles (12.1 km) path offering direct views of the reservoir and its surroundings.
Where can I park when cycling around Thornton Reservoir?
Parking is available at the Thornton Reservoir car park, which provides convenient access to the reservoir-side paths and the start of many touring cycling routes. Additional parking may be found in nearby villages like Bagworth & Thornton, depending on your chosen starting point.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
While many routes are moderate, there are some more challenging options. For instance, the Thornton Reservoir – View of Polly Botts Lane loop from Bagworth & Thornton covers 31.6 miles (50.9 km) with over 350 meters of elevation gain, offering a more demanding ride.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling around Thornton Reservoir?
Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling, with warmer weather and longer daylight hours. However, the well-maintained tracks and paved surfaces make cycling enjoyable in autumn and even mild winter days, though conditions can be wetter.
Are there circular touring cycling routes around Thornton Reservoir?
Many of the touring cycling routes around Thornton Reservoir are designed as loops. A popular circular route is the Bagworth Park loop from Bagworth & Thornton, which is 14.2 miles (22.9 km) and takes you through rural parkland and open fields.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in this area?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling routes around Thornton Reservoir, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Cyclists often praise the varied countryside, the peaceful reservoir views, and the network of paths suitable for different abilities.
Can I find refreshments like cafes or pubs along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, the villages surrounding Thornton Reservoir, such as Thornton itself and nearby Markfield, offer pubs and cafes where you can stop for refreshments. Many routes are designed to pass through or near these villages, making it easy to plan a break.
Are there any less crowded touring cycling routes near Thornton Reservoir?
While the main reservoir loop can be popular, exploring routes that venture further into the surrounding Leicestershire countryside often provides a quieter experience. Consider routes like the St Peter's Church loop from Bagworth & Thornton, which explores rural lanes and villages.
How long does it take to cycle around Thornton Reservoir itself?
A direct loop around Thornton Reservoir, such as the Thornton Reservoir – Thornton Reservoir loop from Markfield, is approximately 7.5 miles (12.1 km) and typically takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete at a moderate pace.
What are some nearby attractions or points of interest I can explore while cycling?
Beyond the reservoir itself, you can explore the rural landscapes of Leicestershire. Routes often pass through charming villages, and you can extend your ride to places like Market Bosworth Country Park, as seen in the Thornton Reservoir – Market Bosworth Country Park loop from Bagworth & Thornton.
Most popular routes around Thornton Reservoir
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