The best cycling routes around Brant Broughton And Stragglethorpe

There are over 170 touring cycling routes in the Brant Broughton and Stragglethorpe area, catering to a wide range of abilities. This includes 86 easy routes, 81 moderate routes, and a few more challenging options.

The region offers diverse terrain, from the flatter fens to the rolling chalk hills of the Lincolnshire Wolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You'll find quiet country lanes, expansive 'big skies' over open fields, and scenic riverside paths and canal-side cycleways, such as those along the Grantham Canal. Some routes also feature hardpacked grass paths or forest dirt paths.

Yes, many routes are suitable for families, particularly the easier, flatter options. The region's quiet country lanes and dedicated cycle paths like sections of the Water Rail Way provide safer environments. For a shorter, easy ride, consider the The Crafty Cafe – Forest Dirt Path loop from St Nicholas, Fulbeck, which is 18.1 miles long and features forest dirt paths.

Cyclists can combine their rides with visits to several historical and natural sites. You might encounter impressive Newark Castle Ruins, the Elizabethan manor house of Doddington Hall and Gardens (featured on the Wilder Doddington Trail), or the natural monument of Aubourn Weir. The area also boasts charming historic villages and significant churches like All Saints Church, Wellingore.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Hardpacked Grass Path – Five Bells Pub loop from Bassingham and the Aubourn Weir – On Freedom’s Wings loop from Bassingham.

Parking is often available in or near the starting points of many routes, particularly in villages or near popular establishments. For example, routes starting from Bassingham might have parking options, and specific routes like the one passing The Crafty Cafe or Doddington Hall and Gardens may have dedicated parking facilities.

The region is enjoyable for cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fewer crowds. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter cycling is possible on many routes, though conditions may require more robust gear. The 'big skies' of Lincolnshire are particularly striking in all seasons.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet country lanes, the expansive open fields, and the scenic riverside paths. The variety of terrain, from flat sections to gentle inclines, also makes it appealing for different fitness levels.

Yes, many routes are designed to pass through charming villages where you can find cafes and pubs. For instance, the Hardpacked Grass Path – Five Bells Pub loop passes by the Five Bells Pub, and The Crafty Cafe – Forest Dirt Path loop includes The Crafty Cafe. Some establishments in the county are also becoming more cycle-friendly, offering amenities like puncture kits.

While many routes are best accessed by car, some villages and towns in Lincolnshire are served by public transport. For detailed information on bus routes and schedules that might connect to Stragglethorpe or Brant Broughton, it's advisable to check local public transport websites or resources like Visit Lincoln or Visit Lincolnshire for general travel advice in the county.

Generally, no specific permits are required for recreational cycling on public roads and designated cycle paths in Lincolnshire. However, if you plan to cycle through private estates or specific nature reserves, it's always best to check their individual access policies. For general information on cycling in the county, you can refer to resources from Visit Lincolnshire.

While Lincolnshire is often associated with flat fens, the region around Brant Broughton and Stragglethorpe does offer varied elevation. Many routes feature gentle inclines, particularly towards the 'Lincoln Edge' or in areas bordering the Lincolnshire Wolds. For example, the Hardpacked Grass Path – Five Bells Pub loop has an elevation gain of about 105 meters over 45.9 km, offering a moderate challenge.