The best cycling routes around The Outwoods

There are over 320 touring cycling routes in the area surrounding The Outwoods, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars.

The terrain around The Outwoods features a mix of ancient woodlands, reservoir areas, and gentle hills within the broader Charnwood Forest. You can expect varied landscapes, from dense woodlands to open areas, with routes often featuring a mix of surfaced and unpaved sections. The area is known for its geological significance, including rare Precambrian rock outcrops.

Yes, the area offers numerous easy routes perfect for families or those new to touring cycling. For example, the Café at the Top of Beacon Hill – Lower Beacon Hill Cafe loop from Woodhouse is an easy 3.3-mile (5.2 km) path that winds through scenic landscapes near Beacon Hill.

Many of the touring cycling routes in the region are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the The Labyrinth – Cropston Reservoir loop from Nanpantan, an 18.8-mile (30.2 km) route featuring reservoir views and varied terrain.

Yes, the broader Charnwood Forest area, which encompasses The Outwoods, has various amenities. The Outwoods itself has a cafe, and routes like the Café at the Top of Beacon Hill – Lower Beacon Hill Cafe loop from Woodhouse specifically mention cafes as part of the experience. You'll find other cafes and pubs in the villages and towns surrounding the woodland.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You'll encounter ancient woodlands, stunning displays of bluebells in spring, and rare Precambrian rock outcrops, which are of international importance. Many routes offer views of reservoirs, such as the Swithland Reservoir – Swithland Reservoir loop from Quorn & Woodhouse, and scenic landscapes around Beacon Hill.

While The Outwoods itself is primarily a walking area with some accessible paths, the surrounding Charnwood Forest offers a network of routes that include both surfaced and unpaved sections. Some routes may involve off-road elements suitable for touring bikes, but it's advisable to check specific route details and local signage for suitability, as not all paths within the ancient woodland are open to cyclists.

Spring is particularly beautiful due to the stunning bluebell displays in the ancient woodlands. Summer offers pleasant conditions for cycling, while autumn brings vibrant foliage. The region's varied terrain and mix of surfaced and unpaved paths make it enjoyable across multiple seasons, though checking weather conditions is always recommended.

Generally, dogs are welcome on public rights of way in the UK, which many cycling routes follow, provided they are kept under control. Within The Outwoods itself, dogs are permitted but must be kept on a lead. When cycling, always be mindful of livestock, wildlife, and other path users, and ensure your dog is well-behaved and doesn't interfere with others.

The Outwoods has a 24-hour car park, making it convenient for those arriving by car. The broader Charnwood Forest area is well-connected, with many routes starting from towns and villages that may have public transport links. For instance, the Butthole Lane loop from Loughborough College starts near Loughborough, which has good transport connections. It's always best to check specific route starting points for detailed parking and public transport information.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 150 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the varied terrain, the scenic reservoir views, and the peaceful atmosphere of the ancient woodlands. The mix of easy and moderate routes also makes it appealing to a wide range of abilities.

While many routes are easy to moderate, the region does offer options for more experienced cyclists looking for a challenge. The varied terrain, including some unpaved sections and gentle hills, can provide a good workout. With 36 difficult routes available, experienced riders can find suitable excursions to test their endurance and skills.

The Outwoods and its surroundings offer a unique touring cycling experience due to its ancient woodland status and significant geological heritage, featuring 700-million-year-old Precambrian rock outcrops. It's a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), providing a blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and diverse cycling paths within the wider Charnwood Forest Geopark.