The best gravel rides around Ockbrook And Borrowash

The gravel biking trails around Ockbrook and Borrowash offer a good mix of difficulties. You'll find approximately 18 easy routes, 26 moderate routes, and 16 more challenging options, catering to various skill levels.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners or families. A great option is the Trent & Mersey Canal Towpath – Swarkestone Lock loop from Aston-on-Trent, which is 17.5 miles (28.1 km) long and follows a historic canal towpath, offering flat terrain and scenic views.

The region's gravel trails are characterized by a diverse landscape, including flat towpaths alongside the Trent & Mersey Canal and the River Derwent, as well as routes with gentle elevation gains through local park areas and countryside. You'll encounter a mix of canal paths, river paths, and parkland.

Ride durations vary depending on the route and your pace. For example, the Nottingham Canal – Bennerley Viaduct Steps loop from Sandiacre, which is 16.9 miles (27.2 km), typically takes about 1 hour 52 minutes. Longer routes like the Swarkestone Lock – Trent Lock loop from Spondon (25.7 miles / 41.3 km) can take around 2 hours 47 minutes.

Many of the gravel bike routes in Ockbrook and Borrowash are designed as loops. Examples include the Stanley Brook Crossing – Locko Park Lake loop from Stanton by Dale and the Dale Abbey Arch – Derwent Valley Riverside Path loop from Ockbrook and Borrowash, offering convenient starting and ending points.

The trails often pass by various natural and historical points of interest. You might encounter highlights such as The Hemlock Stone, explore Allestree Park, or ride past Attenborough Nature Reserve, offering opportunities to enjoy the local flora and fauna.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 70 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the scenic canal towpaths, and the accessibility to both natural and historical points of interest.

While specific designated viewpoints are not detailed, the routes along the Trent & Mersey Canal and River Derwent offer continuous scenic views of the waterways and surrounding countryside. The Nottingham Canal – Bennerley Viaduct Steps loop from Sandiacre also provides views of historic viaducts.

Parking is generally available at or near the starting points of many popular routes, particularly in and around the villages of Ockbrook and Borrowash, and other towns mentioned as starting points for tours. Look for public car parks or designated trail parking areas.

Gravel biking in Ockbrook and Borrowash can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Even in winter, many of the canal towpaths and well-maintained paths remain rideable, though conditions may be muddier.

The region includes several villages and towns such as Ockbrook, Borrowash, Spondon, and Aston-on-Trent, where you can typically find local cafes, pubs, and shops for refreshments along or near the routes.