The best road cycling routes in Charnwood Lodge National Nature Reserve

There are over 200 road cycling routes in the Charnwood Lodge National Nature Reserve area, offering a wide variety of options for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 150 reviews.

The region features varied terrain, characterized by 600-million-year-old Precambrian rock outcrops and diverse habitats. You'll find routes with both gentle and more significant elevation changes. For example, the View of Bardon Hill – Coalville Wheelers Clubhouse loop from Bardon has an elevation gain of around 456 meters over 51.4 km, while the Coalville Wheelers Clubhouse – Inas Cottage loop from Bardon has about 265 meters of elevation gain over 29.6 km.

Yes, there are 88 easy road cycling routes in the Charnwood Lodge National Nature Reserve area. An excellent option for a relaxed ride is the Coalville Wheelers Clubhouse – Inas Cottage loop from Bardon, which covers 29.6 km with a moderate elevation gain, making it ideal for any fitness level.

Road cycling routes in the Charnwood Lodge area offer scenic views of ancient rock formations, lowland heath, and mixed woodlands. You can enjoy panoramic views from Bardon Hill, the highest point in Leicestershire. The View of Bardon Hill – Coalville Wheelers Clubhouse loop from Bardon specifically highlights views of Bardon Hill.

Many of the road cycling routes in the Charnwood Lodge area are designed as loops, offering circular journeys. Examples include the Gallery 119 – Coalville Wheelers Clubhouse loop from Bardon, which is a 61.6 km moderate route, and the Breedon on the Hill Church – Cloud Trail loop from Bardon, a 46.1 km route through picturesque countryside.

The woodlands burst with birdsong in spring and display fiery golden hues in autumn, while summer brings an array of butterflies to the grasslands. These seasons generally offer pleasant weather conditions for road cycling, allowing you to fully appreciate the diverse habitats and scenic beauty of the reserve.

While the reserve itself may have specific access restrictions for certain areas, often requiring membership for the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust, the surrounding road network provides ample opportunities for road cycling through the scenic Charnwood Forest area that encompasses the reserve. Road cycling on public roads does not typically require special permits.

Yes, with 88 easy routes available, the Charnwood Lodge area offers several options suitable for families. Routes with mostly well-paved surfaces and lower elevation gains, such as the West Farm Wood – Redburn Lane loop from Bardon (32.0 km, easy), are ideal for a family outing.

The region offers various starting points for road cycling, and many routes begin or pass through areas with parking facilities. While specific public transport details vary, the network of roads connects various points of interest, making it possible to plan rides that are accessible. It's advisable to check local transport options for your chosen starting point.

The Charnwood Forest area, which includes Charnwood Lodge, features towns and villages that offer amenities such as cafes and pubs. Many routes are designed as loops that may pass through or near these settlements, providing opportunities for refreshments and breaks during your ride.

The unique geology of Charnwood Lodge, with its 600-million-year-old Precambrian rock outcrops, combined with diverse habitats like lowland heath and mixed woodlands, creates a distinctive and scenic backdrop for road cycling. The varied terrain and historical significance of the area offer a rich experience beyond just the ride itself.