The best MTB trails around Harborough

There are over 80 mountain bike trails around Harborough, offering a wide variety of routes across the Leicestershire countryside. These include options for easy, moderate, and advanced skill levels.

Yes, Harborough offers many easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners. Nearly 40 routes are classified as easy. A good option is the Foxton Swing Bridge – Foxton Locks Basin loop from Market Harborough, which is 24.0 km long and takes about 1 hour 37 minutes to complete.

For longer rides, consider routes like the Merry Tom Lane – View of Pitsford Water loop from Market Harborough, which spans 51.8 km. Another substantial option is the Rutland Water Dam – Normanton Church loop from Skeffington, covering 57.7 km.

Many of the mountain bike trails around Harborough are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Gartree Road Crossroads – Goadby Road Gravel Track loop from Market Harborough is a popular circular route.

The terrain around Harborough is characterized by rolling Leicestershire countryside, featuring a mix of open fields, quiet country lanes, and sections of gravel track. The landscape has gentle undulations rather than steep climbs, making it accessible for various skill levels.

Many routes pass by notable landmarks. You can explore the historic Foxton Locks and the Foxton Locks Basin. Some trails also offer views of water features like Pitsford Water or pass by Saddington Reservoir.

While specific routes aren't always designed around pub stops, many trails pass through or near villages with amenities. For instance, the Abandoned Railway Bridge – Red Lion Pub loop from Church Langton explicitly mentions a pub. You can also find cafes like Café Ventoux or the Gilmorton Post Office, General Store and Delicatessen near some routes.

The mountain bike trails around Harborough are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 60 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, open countryside, and the accessibility for different skill levels.

The duration of mountain bike trails in Harborough varies significantly. Easy routes like the Great Bowden Village Centre – Gartree Road Crossroads loop from Market Harborough can take around 1 hour 17 minutes, while longer, moderate routes such as the Gartree Road Crossroads – Debdale Lane loop from Great Glen might take over 2 hours 45 minutes.

While the Harborough area is known for its gentle undulations, there is at least one trail classified as difficult. The majority of routes are easy to moderate, providing a good balance for most riders.

Yes, routes originate from various points. For example, you can find trails starting from Market Harborough, Horninghold with the Gartree Road Crossroads – Goadby Road Gravel Track loop from Horninghold, or Lutterworth with the Gilmorton Lane – Wheelbarrow Pond loop from Lutterworth.