Cycling Route Through The Charnwood Hills
Forest Bumps 64 miles Branching out into the Charnwood Hills
This route ventures out of the forest to take in the ancient rocky landscape of Charnwood. The descent of Beacon Hill sets the scene before some tough climbs and lovely views. The route back is less demanding, but scenic, with odd named villages to keep spirits up. Barton in the Beans anyone?
Get the route tinyurl.com/c-plus-charnwood
Cycling route past Calke Abbey
Branch Lines 48 miles Industrial heritage and country estates
This ride takes in long sections of traffic-free routes based on old railway lines. Tracks are well surfaced and signposted with the odd muddy section in woodland where a cyclo-cross bike may be most suitable. The ride through the National Trust’s Calke Abbey is particularly beautiful.
Get the route tinyurl.com/c-plus-calke
Cycling Route towards River Trent
Rowan Boats 31 miles Steeplechasing across the flood plains of the Trent
This route descends slowly to the banks of the River Trent passing through pretty villages. Church steeples mark off progress as they appear over the horizon of the rolling countryside. Combine with Route One at Measham to make a varied and more challenging ride.
Get the route tinyurl.com/c-plus-trent
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
Have breakfast – Hicks Lodge Café
This eco-friendly café at the National Forest Cycle Centre will rustle up a bacon sandwich to set you up. There’s great coffee and cakes on offer too.
Where Willesley Woodside, LE65 2UP
Stop for cakes – Calke Abbey
The ride through Calke Abbey would be worth the entry fee even if cyclists didn’t get in for free! An excellent courtyard café provides a great selection of cakes.
Where Ticknall, DE73 7LE
Get spare tubes – Just Bikes
An independent bike retailer located on the Green in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, offering a range of bicycles and accessories for riders of any level.
Where 8 The Green, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, LE65 1JU
Fancy a pint? – The New Inn, Peggs Green
Run by the same family since 1978, this traditional pub has a lovely garden and a good selection of beers to sample post ride.
Where Clay Lane, LE67 8JE
Leave the family here – Conkers
120 acres of maturing woodlands, lakes, ponds and play areas and an 18-stage assault course challenge. A high ropes course opened in July.
Where Rawdon Road, Moira
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