The best MTB trails around Launde Big Wood

No, mountain biking is not permitted within Launde Big Wood itself. The wood is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and is preserved primarily for hiking, walking, and nature observation. However, the surrounding east Leicestershire area offers a network of mountain bike trails.

The mountain bike trails in the area feature rolling pastures, gentle hills, and open countryside. You'll find a mix of paths, including gravel tracks and rural routes, offering scenic views of the landscape and landmarks like Launde Abbey.

There are over 10 mountain bike trails available in the region around Launde Big Wood. These routes cater to various preferences, with options ranging from easy to moderate difficulty.

Yes, there is at least one easy mountain bike trail in the area, and many of the moderate routes are also accessible for those with some experience. The terrain generally consists of rolling hills and open countryside, making it suitable for a range of abilities.

While mountain biking in the surrounding area, you can enjoy views of the historic Launde Abbey, an Elizabethan manor house. The routes also offer picturesque vistas of the rolling Leicestershire countryside, including distant views of Rutland Water on some longer trails.

The mountain bike trails around Launde Big Wood are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 17 reviews. Mountain bikers often praise the scenic countryside and the variety of routes available in the region.

Yes, many of the trails are designed as loops. For example, the Uppingham Market Town – The Horse and Jockey Pub loop from Belton-in-Rutland is a popular moderate route exploring market towns and rural paths. Another option is the Gartree Road Crossroads – Goadby Road Gravel Track loop from Horninghold, which features gravel tracks and open countryside views.

The best time to go mountain biking in the region is generally during spring, summer, and early autumn when the weather is milder and the trails are drier. Spring also offers the chance to see the rich ground flora, including bluebells, in the ancient woodlands nearby (though not from your bike).

While specific parking for mountain biking trails isn't detailed, you can typically find parking in the villages and market towns that serve as starting points for many of the routes in the wider area, such as Belton-in-Rutland or Horninghold.

Yes, if you're looking for more mountain biking options in Leicestershire, you could explore areas like Charnwood Forest, Bradgate Park, and Beacon Hill Country Park. Hicks Lodge National Forest Cycle Centre and Charnwood Forest Downhill Mountain Bike Park are also noted destinations for mountain biking in the county.

One of the longer routes in the wider region is the Rutland Water Dam – Normanton Church loop from Skeffington, which spans approximately 35.8 miles (57.7 km) and typically takes around 3 hours 46 minutes to complete.

While Launde Big Wood itself is popular for dog walking, the suitability of bringing dogs on mountain bike trails depends on the specific route and local regulations. It's always best to check individual trail guidelines and ensure your dog is well-behaved and on a leash where required, especially when encountering other trail users or livestock.