The best gravel rides around Ashby-De-La-Zouch

There are over 20 gravel bike trails around Ashby-De-La-Zouch listed on komoot, offering a variety of experiences through the National Forest and its regenerated landscapes. These include routes of varying lengths and difficulties.

The terrain is diverse, reflecting the area's transformation from industrial land to natural reserves. You'll find extensive woodlands, gentle paths, tranquil canal towpaths, and established parklands. Many routes combine off-road gravel and mud sections with well-maintained tracks and some road riding, making hybrid or mountain bikes suitable.

Yes, there are 8 easy gravel bike routes in the area. A great option for beginners is the Lount Woods Trail – Jaguar Lount Woods loop from Staunton Harold, which is 19.3 km long and takes around 1 hour 27 minutes to complete.

Yes, for those seeking a moderate challenge, there are 13 routes available. Consider the Hicks Lodge Trail Centre – Donisthorpe Woodland Park loop from Oakthorpe and Donisthorpe, a 35.7 km path that traverses woodlands and former industrial sites, taking approximately 2 hours 6 minutes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Riders often praise the regenerated landscapes of the National Forest, the tranquil Ashby Canal routes, and the parkland surrounding Calke Abbey for their scenic beauty and varied terrain.

Absolutely. The Hicks Lodge Trail – Shell Brook Trail loop from Ashby Woulds is an easy 20.5 km route exploring woodlands and gentle paths, suitable for families. Additionally, the Tramway Trail at Calke Abbey offers a relatively flat, figure-of-eight route through parkland, and the Ashby Canal towpath provides a very gentle, scenic ride.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in the area are circular loops. For example, the Moira Furnace – Shell Brook Trail loop from Woodville is a 33.7 km circular trail that takes you through historic areas and woodlands.

Yes, the region is rich in scenic spots and points of interest. Many routes pass through the National Forest, offering diverse woodlands. You can also explore the historic Moira Furnace and Canal, or cycle through the ancient Deer Park at Calke Abbey. The Ashby Canal towpath also provides tranquil views of the countryside.

Yes, the Ashby Canal offers over 20 miles of tranquil towpath, perfect for gravel biking alongside water. Additionally, routes around the Staunton Harold Reservoir provide scenic views over the water, often connecting to other trails like those at Calke Abbey.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery as the woodlands change. While summer is also popular, some trails might be dustier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddier conditions on unpaved sections.

Many routes incorporate the area's rich history. The Moira Furnace – Shell Brook Trail loop from Woodville takes you past the well-preserved 19th-century Moira Furnace. The Calke Abbey estate, with its historic deer park and ancient oaks, is also a significant landmark accessible by bike.

Yes, Ashby-De-La-Zouch is situated within the National Forest, so almost all gravel routes in the area will take you through or alongside its extensive woodlands and regenerated landscapes. The Lount Woods Trail – Jaguar Lount Woods loop from Woodville is a great example, traversing established woodland areas.