The best traffic-free bike rides around Nottingham

Nottingham offers a wide selection of no-traffic touring cycling routes, with over 90 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 24 easy, 55 moderate, and 15 more challenging tours, ensuring there's something for every cyclist looking to explore the region without vehicle interference.

Yes, Nottingham has several easy, family-friendly routes perfect for a relaxed ride. The region's extensive waterways, like the Rivers Trent and Grantham Canal, provide flat, traffic-free paths. A great option is the Grantham Canal Path – River Trent Waterfront loop from Nottingham, which is rated as easy and offers pleasant scenery along the water.

The terrain around Nottingham is quite varied. Many no-traffic routes follow canals and rivers, offering mostly flat and paved surfaces ideal for relaxed touring. However, venturing slightly further afield, you'll find undulating farmland to the north and areas like the Nottinghamshire Wolds, which can introduce more varied and gently rolling terrain. Routes through woodlands like Sherwood Forest also offer a mix of compacted earth and gravel paths.

Nottingham's no-traffic cycling routes often pass by significant natural and historical sites. You can explore the famous Sherwood Forest, home of the legendary Major Oak, or cycle through nature reserves like Attenborough Nature Reserve, known for its wildlife. Many routes also follow the scenic River Trent and Nottingham Canal. For specific points of interest, consider visiting Highfields Lake, Colwick Country Park Lakes, or the historic Wollaton Hall.

Absolutely. Many of the no-traffic touring routes in Nottingham are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Nottingham to Woodside Nature Reserve loop offers a moderate circular journey, and the Nottingham Canal – Trent Lock loop from Nottingham is another popular circular option that keeps you away from traffic.

The best time for touring cycling in Nottingham is generally from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and the natural landscapes are at their most vibrant. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. While winter cycling is possible, some paths might be muddy or icy, and daylight hours are shorter.

Yes, many routes in Nottinghamshire are designed to pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes, pubs, and other amenities. The extensive canal and river networks often have waterside establishments. For example, routes that follow the River Trent or pass through country parks frequently offer refreshment stops. It's always a good idea to check your specific route for points of interest before you set off.

Nottingham has a good public transport network, including buses and trams, which can help you reach starting points for many routes. The city center itself is a hub for several no-traffic paths, particularly those following the canals and rivers. For routes further afield, consider checking local bus services that allow bikes or connect to train stations, as some train lines in the region permit bicycle carriage outside of peak hours.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Nottingham, with an average score of 4.35 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's extensive network of traffic-free paths, particularly those along the canals and rivers, which offer peaceful and scenic rides. The variety of routes, from easy family-friendly options to more challenging loops, and the opportunity to explore historical sites and nature reserves, are also frequently highlighted as major attractions.

For those seeking a longer, moderate challenge, Nottingham offers several excellent no-traffic touring routes. The Nottingham to Belvoir Castle loop is a great option, covering over 64 km with moderate elevation changes, taking you through varied countryside to a historic landmark. Another substantial ride is the Beeston Lock – Trent Lock loop from Nottingham, offering a scenic 44 km journey along the waterways.