The best cycling routes around Old Bolsover

There are over 25 touring cycling routes around Old Bolsover listed on komoot, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels to explore the distinctive North East Derbyshire countryside.

The touring cycling routes in Old Bolsover feature a mix of terrain, including rolling hills, green spaces, quiet woods, and tranquil waterways. Many routes utilize former industrial sites now transformed into nature reserves, offering varied surfaces from dedicated trails to quiet country roads. You'll find both relatively flat sections and routes with significant elevation gain.

The touring cycling routes in Old Bolsover are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Cyclists often praise the scenic views, the blend of historical points of interest with natural landscapes, and the well-maintained network of trails that cater to different abilities.

Yes, Old Bolsover offers several circular touring cycling routes. A notable one is the Bolsover Loop, a 26-mile route that traverses the district, connecting towns and trails through green spaces. Many komoot tours are also designed as loops, such as the Bolsover Castle – Clowne Greenway loop from Bolsover, which is a moderate 12.6-mile ride.

Yes, Old Bolsover has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Stockley Trail – Glapwell MTB Trail loop from Bolsover is an easy 7-mile trail that follows former railway lines and heads towards Carr Vale Nature Reserve, often completed in under an hour. Many of the region's trails, like parts of the Teversal and Rowthorne Trails, are generally level and traffic-free.

For more challenging touring cycling, Old Bolsover offers routes with significant elevation gain and longer distances. The Chesterfield Canal Towpath – Rother Valley Country Park loop from Old Bolsover is a difficult 35.7-mile route combining canal towpaths with varied terrain. Another challenging option is the View of Hardwick Hall and Lake – Rowthorne Village loop from Bolsover, a difficult 30.1-mile path with scenic views.

Old Bolsover's routes are rich in historical and natural sights. You can cycle past the magnificent Bolsover Castle, with routes offering panoramic views. Other highlights include Hardwick Old Hall, Sutton Scarsdale Hall, and natural features like Creswell Crags, a limestone gorge with Ice Age cave art. Many routes also pass through nature reserves like Carr Vale and Peter Fidler Reserve.

Yes, several touring cycling routes offer excellent viewpoints. The wall walk at Bolsover Castle provides panoramic views over the Vale of Scarsdale. You can also find scenic vistas at Peter Fidler Reserve and along routes that pass by Sutton Scarsdale Hall, offering expansive views of the surrounding countryside.

Yes, many of the trails in Old Bolsover are suitable for families. The Stockley Trail, for instance, is a two-mile former railway line that is shared by walkers and cyclists, leading towards Carr Vale Nature Reserve. Generally, routes that are largely traffic-free and have gentle gradients, such as sections of the Teversal and Rowthorne Trails, are excellent choices for family outings.

Yes, there are opportunities to stop for refreshments. The Stop Cafe at Poolsbrook Park – Poolsbrook Country Park Lake loop from Bolsover specifically mentions a cafe. Many routes pass through or near villages and towns where you can find local pubs and cafes to refuel during your ride. It's always a good idea to check opening times in advance.

Spring and autumn are generally considered the best times for touring cycling in Old Bolsover, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with blooming wildflowers or vibrant fall foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for colder weather and potentially muddier sections on unpaved trails.

Yes, parking is generally available at various access points for the touring cycling routes around Old Bolsover. Many trailheads, country parks like Poulter Country Park, and attractions such as Bolsover Castle offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points with parking.

Yes, Old Bolsover's cycling network includes several routes that utilize former railway lines, which are often traffic-free and relatively flat. The Stockley Trail is a prime example, offering a pleasant two-mile path. Other trails like the Silverhill, Teversal, and Rowthorne Trails also incorporate sections of these historic railway paths, providing smooth and scenic rides.