The best MTB trails around Ridlington

There are over 45 mountain bike trails around Ridlington, offering a variety of routes through the rolling countryside of Rutland. These include 20 easy routes and 27 moderate routes, ensuring options for different skill levels.

Yes, Ridlington offers 20 easy mountain bike trails, perfect for beginners or families looking for a less strenuous ride. An example is the Horse and Jockey Inn – Normanton Church loop from Oakham, an easy 17.8-mile path that provides scenic views, including the historic Normanton Church.

The terrain around Ridlington is characterized by rolling countryside, winding lanes, and gravel tracks. Many routes explore the vicinity of Rutland Water, which can include sections of cycle paths and some gravel. You'll also find routes passing through ancient woodlands like Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland, offering varied surfaces.

Many of the mountain bike trails around Ridlington are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Rutland Water Cycle Path – Rutland Water Nature Reserve loop from Rutland is an 11.0-mile circular trail that takes you through the nature reserve.

While mountain biking near Ridlington, you can encounter several notable attractions. The iconic Normanton Church, partially submerged in Rutland Water, is a popular sight. You might also pass by the Rutland Water Dam or explore the ancient Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland. The area also features the impressive Welland Viaduct.

The mountain bike trails around Ridlington are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 130 reviews. Riders often praise the tranquil rural settings, the scenic views around Rutland Water, and the variety of routes available for different skill levels.

Yes, Ridlington offers 27 moderate mountain bike trails for those seeking a bit more challenge. A popular moderate route is the Gartree Road Crossroads – Goadby Road Gravel Track loop from Horninghold, a 20.5-mile trail that navigates through rural landscapes and gravel tracks.

The rolling countryside around Ridlington is enjoyable for mountain biking throughout much of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather and the chance to see the Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland in bloom. Autumn provides beautiful foliage. While winter can be ridden, some gravel sections, particularly around Rutland Water, might be less cycle-friendly in wet or icy conditions.

The duration of mountain bike trails around Ridlington varies depending on the route's length and your pace. Easy routes like the Rutland Water Cycle Path – Rutland Water Nature Reserve loop from Rutland (11.0 miles) can be completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes. Longer, moderate trails such as the Gartree Road Crossroads – Goadby Road Gravel Track loop from Horninghold (20.5 miles) typically take around 2 hours 12 minutes.

Yes, many trails offer scenic views, particularly those around Rutland Water. The area is situated at almost 600 feet above sea level, providing expansive views over the Chater river valley. The View of Rutland Water – Rutland Water Cycle Route loop from Oakham is specifically named for its scenic vistas of the lake.

Many public paths and bridleways in the Ridlington area are dog-friendly, especially if your dog is well-behaved and kept under control. However, always check local signage, particularly in nature reserves or private land sections, as rules can vary. Be mindful of livestock in fields and ensure your dog doesn't disturb wildlife.

Public transport options directly to Ridlington village are limited due to its rural location. However, you might find bus services to nearby towns like Oakham, which is a starting point for several mountain bike routes, including the Horse and Jockey Inn – Normanton Church loop from Oakham. From Oakham, you may need to cycle to reach specific trailheads.

While Ridlington itself is a small village, the wider area around Rutland Water and nearby towns like Oakham offer various cafes, pubs, and eateries. Many routes, such as the Horse and Jockey Inn – Normanton Church loop from Oakham, start or pass by establishments where you can refuel.