The best MTB trails around Skellingthorpe

There are over 30 mountain bike routes around Skellingthorpe, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy and moderate trails, with 22 easy routes and 14 moderate options.

The terrain around Skellingthorpe is generally flat, characteristic of Lincolnshire, but offers variety. You'll encounter ancient woodlands like Old Wood with sandy and surfaced tracks, and routes along river valleys. Some areas can be boggy after rain, while others feature mostly paved surfaces, making them suitable for different conditions.

Yes, Skellingthorpe is well-suited for beginners and families, with 22 easy-rated routes. A great option is the Fossdyke Navigation – The Pyewipe Inn loop from Lincoln, an easy 20.2 km path that follows the historic Fossdyke Navigation, providing a mostly flat ride.

For those seeking longer rides, there are 14 moderate routes available. Consider the From Doddington to Southscarle and Swinderby loop, a 50.6 km route that takes about 3 hours 20 minutes, or the Bardney Lock – St Lawrence's Church, Bardney loop from Saxilby, which is 60.3 km and typically completed in about 3 hours 15 minutes.

Spring is particularly beautiful, as the ancient woodlands like Old Wood come alive with wildflowers such as bluebells and orchids. While trails can be boggy after rain, the surfaced tracks in Old Wood make it suitable for all-weather use. Generally, spring through autumn offers pleasant conditions.

Many of the mountain bike routes around Skellingthorpe are designed as loops. Examples include the easy Fossdyke Navigation – The Pyewipe Inn loop from Lincoln and the moderate From Doddington to Southscarle and Swinderby loop.

The trails offer a variety of sights. You can explore ancient woodlands like Old Wood, which features carved sculptures along The Odin Trail. Other notable attractions include Swanholme Lakes, and the impressive Fledborough Viaduct, offering views over the River Trent valley. The historic Doddington Hall and Gardens is also nearby.

Old Wood, a significant part of the trail network, is a haven for wildlife. It's home to over 100 species of birds, as well as deer and foxes, making it an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

Yes, there are options for refreshments. The Fossdyke Navigation – The Pyewipe Inn loop from Lincoln specifically mentions The Pyewipe Inn, a popular spot. Additionally, Doddington Hall, which has a dedicated mountain bike trail, also features cyclist-friendly cafes on-site.

The mountain bike routes in Skellingthorpe are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.7 stars. Over 60 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the accessible network through ancient woodlands and along river valleys.

While specific parking spots for all trails aren't detailed, many routes are accessible from points like Doddington Hall, which is known to be cyclist-friendly. Old Wood is also accessible from NCN Route 64, and the village play area provides access to this network, suggesting convenient starting points.

Beyond Skellingthorpe's immediate trails, the nearby Doddington Hall offers a dedicated mountain bike trail. For a more extensive off-road experience, the Dukeries Trail, a 32-mile route, connects Lincolnshire with Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, passing through areas like Sherwood Forest.