The best traffic-free bike rides in North West Leicestershire
4.5
(171)
2,760
riders
154
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in North West Leicestershire traverse a landscape shaped by the National Forest, featuring rolling countryside, ancient woodlands, and regenerated industrial sites. The region's terrain includes tranquil lakes and canals, offering varied gradients suitable for cycling. Former open-cast mines have been transformed into natural spaces, providing a network of paths and trails.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in North West Leicestershire
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Ivanhoe Way to Thornton Reservoir…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
3.0
(1)
3
riders
61.5km
03:54
460m
460m
Cycle the difficult Ivanhoe Way to Thornton Reservoir from Ashby-de-la-Zouch, a 38.2-mile route with 1524 feet of elevation gain.
4.7
(23)
141
riders
36.5km
02:08
130m
130m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.9
(11)
431
riders
18.5km
01:11
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(3)
316
riders
12.5km
00:49
60m
60m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
48
riders
6.62km
00:33
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around North West Leicestershire
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snibston trail bike skills area,park,cafe Blue trail Old train lines Coalville town football club Coalville town
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The Cloud Trail (sometimes called Cloud Trail Greenway) is a 13‑mile (21 km) mostly flat, traffic‑free route stretching from Derby to Worthington via former railway track and canal towpaths. The route winds through riverside scenery, crosses a Grade II listed viaduct near Melbourne, and skirts Cloud Quarry offering scenic viewpoints.
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Took a great group photo on the bridge, with the fields behind making a lovely backdrop
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The memorial is to Edith, Lady Maud Hastings, Countess of Loudoun, a member of the ancient Hastings family who had been important in this area for centuries. As a sort of "lady of the manor" she was much loved by the townspeople, and died at Ventnor on the Isle of Wight in 1874. It was one of the last designs by the eminent architect Gilbert Scott, and completed in 1879, the year after his death. The design is based on the Eleanor Crosses, set up by Edward I as memorials to his Queen, Eleanor of Castile, at places where her body rested on its way to London. Only three of these remain - at Geddington and Hardingstone in Northamptonshire and at Waltham Cross in Hertfordshire, just outside the Essex town of Waltham Abbey. The inscription on the memorial is by Benjamin Disraeli. The Loudoun Memorial stands on the site of Gawbey's Hole, a water pump where much gossiping was wont to take place.
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Hicks Lodge trail ride blue flat and the walks around the lake flat with cafe and park bike hire
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic touring cycling routes are available in North West Leicestershire?
North West Leicestershire offers over 170 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes. These routes range from easy, family-friendly paths to more challenging trails, ensuring options for all skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these traffic-free cycling routes?
The routes in North West Leicestershire primarily traverse the regenerated landscapes of the National Forest, featuring rolling English countryside, ancient woodlands, and former railway lines converted into scenic paths. You'll find a mix of well-maintained gravel paths, compacted earth, and some paved sections, often around tranquil lakes and waterways like the Ashby Canal.
Are there any family-friendly, traffic-free cycling routes?
Yes, North West Leicestershire is excellent for family cycling. The Hicks Lodge Trail – Willesley Wood loop from Oakthorpe and Donisthorpe is an easy, traffic-free option, perfect for families. Hicks Lodge National Forest Cycling Centre itself offers graded, traffic-free trails and bike hire, making it an ideal starting point for all ages.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features I can see along these routes?
You can explore a variety of interesting sights. Consider routes that pass by the historic Moira Furnace and Canal, the impressive Ashby de la Zouch Castle, or the serene Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park. The region also features beautiful woodlands like the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Woodland.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring routes?
Yes, many of the traffic-free routes in North West Leicestershire are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Willesley Wood – Hicks Lodge Trail loop from Ashby-de-la-Zouch, which offers an easy, scenic ride.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in North West Leicestershire?
Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for touring cycling in North West Leicestershire, with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while winter can be enjoyed on well-maintained paths, though some trails might be muddier after rain. The regenerated National Forest landscape is enjoyable year-round.
Where can I find parking for these traffic-free cycling routes?
Many popular starting points for traffic-free routes, such as Hicks Lodge National Forest Cycling Centre and areas around Ashby-de-la-Zouch, offer dedicated parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for parking information relevant to your chosen starting point.
Can I access these routes using public transport?
While some routes may be accessible via local bus services to towns like Ashby-de-la-Zouch or Coalville, direct public transport links to trailheads can be limited. Planning your journey in advance and checking local transport schedules is recommended. The region integrates with the National Cycle Network, which can sometimes connect to public transport hubs.
What do other touring cyclists say about the no-traffic routes in North West Leicestershire?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in North West Leicestershire, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the beautiful forest scenery, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable rides for all abilities.
Are there any longer, more challenging traffic-free routes for experienced touring cyclists?
For those seeking a longer, more challenging ride, the Ivanhoe Way to Thornton Reservoir from Ashby-de-la-Zouch offers a difficult, nearly 61.5 km route with significant elevation gain, providing a rewarding experience away from traffic.
Are there routes that follow canals or waterways?
Yes, the region features several waterways that offer scenic, traffic-free cycling. The Cloud Trail – Trent & Mersey Canal Towpath loop from North West Leicestershire is a great example, allowing you to cycle alongside the canal, enjoying the tranquil environment and industrial heritage.
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