The best MTB trails around Martinsthorpe

There are over 45 mountain bike routes in the Martinsthorpe area, offering a variety of experiences. These include 20 easy routes and 25 moderate routes, ensuring options for different skill levels.

Yes, Martinsthorpe offers several easy mountain bike trails, many of which are suitable for beginners and families. A great option is the Rutland Water Cycle Path – Rutland Water Nature Reserve loop from Rutland, an 11-mile path that follows the scenic Rutland Water Cycle Path. Another easy route is the View of Rutland Water – Rutland Water Cycle Route loop from Oakham, which is about 11.7 miles long.

The terrain around Martinsthorpe is characterized by a heavenly rolling landscape of pasture and arable fields. Many routes utilize the extensive Rutland Water cycle trails, which are largely off-road with a gravel surface. You'll also find bridleways and footpaths integrated into the network, suitable for cycling, offering a mix of surfaces and gentle ascents.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Martinsthorpe are circular. For example, the Horse and Jockey Inn – Normanton Church loop from Oakham is a 17.8-mile circular trail offering views of Rutland Water. The main circular route around Rutland Water itself is 23 miles, or 17 miles if you bypass the Hambleton Peninsula.

While mountain biking, you can encounter several notable landmarks. The area is known for its historical earthworks of a deserted medieval village. Many routes around Rutland Water offer views of the iconic Normanton Church, which appears to float on the water. You might also pass by the Welland Viaduct or the Rutland Water Dam.

The mountain bike trails around Martinsthorpe are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 130 reviews. Reviewers often praise the scenic views of Rutland Water, the well-maintained cycle paths, and the peaceful rolling countryside that makes for an enjoyable ride.

Yes, there are 25 moderate mountain bike trails available. A good option for a longer, moderate ride is the Rutland Water Dam – Normanton Church loop from Oakham, which covers about 23.4 miles. Another is the Rutland Water Dam – Normanton Church loop from Uppingham, a 26.8-mile route with more elevation gain.

While Martinsthorpe itself is a small village, its proximity to Rutland Water means many trails are accessible from nearby towns like Oakham, which has a train station. From Oakham, you can often connect to the Rutland Water cycle network, which is well-integrated with local transport options.

Yes, especially along the popular Rutland Water cycle trails. These routes pass through picturesque villages like Manton and offer numerous opportunities for refreshment stops at cafes and pubs. The area around Rutland Water is well-equipped with facilities for cyclists.

The rolling countryside and Rutland Water trails are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with spring bringing wildflowers like those in Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland. Summer is also popular, though trails can be busier. Winter riding is possible, but conditions may vary, especially on unpaved sections.

While Martinsthorpe is small, ample parking is available at various points around Rutland Water, which is the hub for many of the mountain biking trails. Car parks are typically located at visitor centers and key access points around the reservoir, providing convenient starting points for your ride.