Ivanhoe Way to Thornton Reservoir from Ashby-de-la-Zouch

This route is officially rated as a "Hard bike ride", requiring "very good fitness". It covers approximately 61.5 km (38 miles) with an elevation gain of about 460 meters (1509 feet). While much of it is paved, the combination of distance, elevation, and some unpaved sections contributes to its difficulty.

The route features a mix of surfaces. The majority is paved, with about 30.5 km of asphalt and 22.3 km of other paved sections. However, be prepared for some unpaved parts, including 4.17 km of unpaved paths and 3.73 km of compacted gravel. A notable section follows a very level, disused railway line through the Donisthorpe Woodland Park, which is gravel.

You'll encounter diverse landscapes and historical sites. Highlights include the Heart of the National Forest - Ashby Line, Donisthorpe Woodland Park, Ashby Woulds Heritage Trail, and the scenic Thornton Reservoir. You'll also get views of Bardon Hill, pass by Hermitage Lake and Snibston Country Park Lake, and cycle near Ashby de la Zouch Castle.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be good, but be prepared for potentially warmer weather and more visitors. Winter cycling is possible, but some unpaved sections might be muddy or slippery, and daylight hours are shorter.

As the route starts in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, you can look for public parking options within the town. For example, there are car parks near Ashby de la Zouch Castle or in the town centre. Alternatively, you might find parking near Thornton Reservoir if you prefer to start from that end.

While the route passes through natural areas, it is primarily a cycling route with some sections on roads and shared paths. If you plan to bring a dog, ensure it is well-behaved and can keep pace, or consider using a dog trailer. Always keep dogs on a leash, especially near livestock, wildlife, or other trail users.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Ivanhoe Way to Thornton Reservoir route itself. It largely follows public rights of way and trails. However, if you detour into specific attractions or private estates, they may have their own entry fees.

Yes, a significant portion of the route traverses the Heart of the National Forest. Generally, there are no specific entrance fees or permits for cycling within the public access areas of the National Forest. However, please respect signage, stay on marked paths, take all litter home, and be mindful of wildlife and other visitors.

Yes, you'll find opportunities for refreshments. The route passes by The Bull's Head, Highest Pub in Leicestershire, which could be a good stop. Ashby-de-la-Zouch at the start/end offers various options, and there might be cafes or pubs near Thornton Reservoir or in nearby villages.

Yes, this route incorporates sections of several other paths. Notably, it follows parts of the official Ivanhoe Way and also intersects with segments of the National Forest Way. You may also briefly encounter sections of the Ashby Canal Trail and the Bosworth Trail.

Ashby-de-la-Zouch is accessible by public transport, primarily buses, from larger towns and cities in the region. You can check local bus schedules to plan your journey to the starting point of the route.