The best traffic-free bike rides around City of Leicester

The City of Leicester offers a wide selection of no-traffic road cycling routes. Our guide features nearly 100 routes, providing plenty of options for exploring the region on two wheels.

You can expect a diverse range of terrain. Many routes follow picturesque and often traffic-free paths along the River Soar and Grand Union Canal, offering flat and gentle rides. Other routes, particularly those venturing towards areas like Bradgate Park or the National Forest, may include more rolling hills and challenging inclines, even on dedicated cycle paths or quiet country lanes.

Yes, Leicester is well-suited for beginners and families. Many routes utilize former railway lines like the Great Central Way or follow river towpaths, providing excellent traffic-free surfaces. Parks such as Abbey Park and Watermead Country Park also offer gentle, easy cycling environments. For example, the Leicester to Watermead Park route (NCN 6) is largely traffic-free and ideal for relaxed cycling.

The routes often pass through beautiful natural settings and historical sites. You can cycle alongside the River Soar and Grand Union Canal, explore the lakes and reedbeds of Watermead Country Park, or discover the expansive Everards Meadows. Historic landmarks include the remains of Leicester Abbey in Abbey Park, and you might even spot the Stone Bridge in Abbey Park or the Aylestone Meadows Wildlife Mural. Further afield, Bradgate Park features the iconic Old John Tower and the ruins of Bradgate House.

While the focus is on no-traffic, some routes offer more challenging distances and elevations, often utilizing quiet country lanes that are effectively traffic-free. For instance, the Rutland Water South Shore – Welland Viaduct loop from Wigston is a difficult route covering over 120 km with significant elevation gain. Other routes like the Church Tower and Village Green – Café Ventoux loop from Leicester offer moderate challenges with varied terrain.

Spring and summer are generally the most popular times, offering pleasant weather for cycling and lush green landscapes. However, Leicester's dedicated cycle paths and greenways are accessible year-round. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, and even in winter, many traffic-free routes remain enjoyable, though appropriate clothing is recommended.

Many of Leicester's parks and trailheads offer parking facilities. For routes accessing areas like Watermead Country Park, Abbey Park, or Everards Meadows, designated parking is usually available. For routes starting further out, such as the Leicester Airport Windsock – Bench in Countesthorpe loop from Leicester, you can often find parking in nearby villages or at specific starting points.

Leicester is actively working to be bike-friendly, and many routes are accessible from the city centre, which is well-served by public transport. National Cycle Network (NCN) routes like NCN 6 pass through the city, connecting various parks and traffic-free paths, making it easy to start your ride after arriving by bus or train.

Yes, many routes are designed to pass by or near cafes, pubs, and other amenities. Watermead Country Park has cafes, and Everards Meadows also offers refreshment options. Routes that venture through villages, such as the Sludge Hall Hill – View of Rissby Countryside loop from Leicester, often have charming village pubs or cafes where you can take a break.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the excellent network of traffic-free paths, the beautiful riverside and canal-side scenery, and the ability to explore both urban green spaces and tranquil countryside without encountering vehicle traffic. The variety of routes, from easy family rides to more challenging loops, is also frequently highlighted.

Absolutely. The Great Central Way, a former railway line, is a prime example of a traffic-free greenway, perfect for relaxed cycling and connecting to other areas like Aylestone Meadows. The Leicester to Watermead Park route (NCN 6) largely follows the River Soar on dedicated paths. The National Forest area to the north also boasts numerous dedicated cycle paths, including sections of the Ashby Woulds Trail (NCN 63).