4.7
(247)
2,527
riders
381
rides
Touring cycling around Wanlip offers routes through tranquil natural landscapes and accessible recreational areas in Leicestershire. The region is characterized by the River Soar, which flows through the area, and the adjacent Wanlip Meadows, a nature reserve. Terrain is generally flat, with many routes featuring mostly paved surfaces, making it suitable for various fitness levels. These features contribute to a network of popular bike trails in the Wanlip area.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
4.0
(1)
16
riders
46.8km
02:48
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
11
riders
25.0km
01:27
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4
riders
11.8km
00:43
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
13.3km
00:50
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
24.3km
01:30
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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This place offers a beautiful outdoor seating area with delicious meals and beverages, plus safe for cyclists
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Cycling is only permitted on the one route through the park, which gets busy with walkers, take it slow in the park. Cafe and toilets in the middle.
2
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Bradgate Park was first enclosed as a deer park (for hunting) in the 12th Century. Herds of Red and Fallow Deer still roam freely across the Park's 800 acres today.The Park is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its importance as a wildlife habitat and its geological interest - the 600 million year old Precambrian rocks here are some of the oldest in England. Bradgate House, built around the year 1500, was one of the first unfortified, brick-built country houses in the country and was the childhood home of Lady Jane Grey and played an important role in the English Civil War. Abandoned in the 18th Century, the house is now an evocative ruin set in a landscape that has changed little since the house's heyday.
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This is the Great Pit in Swithland Wood, a site shaped by centuries of slate quarrying, with origins tracing back to Roman times. The quarry was first officially recorded in the 1300s, with activity continuing until the 19th century. Due to the presence of deep water and sheer vertical walls, the quarry is extremely hazardous and completely closed to public access.
2
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A welcoming spot for food and drinks, but don't indulge too much, there's a nice climb ahead towards Markfield.
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0
There are over 400 touring cycling routes around Wanlip listed on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 133 easy, 214 moderate, and 58 difficult options.
The terrain around Wanlip is generally flat, making it suitable for relaxed touring cycling. Many routes feature mostly paved surfaces, especially those along the River Soar and within Watermead Country Park. While some routes have gentle elevation changes, significant climbs are uncommon.
Yes, Wanlip offers several family-friendly touring cycling routes, particularly those that are easy and mostly flat. The area's paved paths along the River Soar and within Watermead Country Park are ideal for families. An example is the Watermead Country Park – Great Central Way loop from Syston, which is an easy 30.4 km ride with minimal elevation.
Many of the touring cycling trails in Wanlip, especially those through natural areas like Wanlip Meadows and Watermead Country Park, are suitable for dogs, provided they are kept on a lead and under control. Always check local signage for specific restrictions in nature reserves or protected areas. The flat, often paved paths make for comfortable rides with a canine companion.
Touring cycling routes in Wanlip often feature the tranquil landscapes of the River Soar and its floodplain. You can explore the diverse wildlife of Wanlip Meadows, a nature reserve known for birdwatching. The routes also pass through or near John Merrick's Lake and the wider Bradgate Park area, offering scenic views and opportunities to spot local flora and fauna.
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Wanlip are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Stone Bridge in Abbey Park – Rothley Railway Station loop from Leicestershire is a moderate 37.7 km circular route that includes riverside sections and varied landscapes.
The touring cycling routes in Wanlip are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the tranquil natural landscapes, the accessible recreational areas, and the well-maintained paths along the River Soar and through Watermead Country Park. The flat terrain is frequently highlighted as a positive for enjoyable rides.
Parking is generally available at various access points for the touring cycling routes around Wanlip, particularly near Watermead Country Park and other popular starting points. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route descriptions on komoot or local council websites for the parks and nature reserves.
While Wanlip itself is a small village, many touring cycling routes in the area pass through or near other villages and towns in Leicestershire where you can find cafes, pubs, and other amenities. It's advisable to check the specific route you plan to take for refreshment stops along the way. For instance, the Soar Navigation Lock – Hoby Village loop from Birstall passes near Hoby Village, which may offer options.
The best time for touring cycling in Wanlip is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) when the weather is milder and the natural landscapes are at their most vibrant. The flat terrain means routes are accessible for much of the year, but conditions can be wet in winter, especially in the River Soar floodplain areas like Wanlip Meadows.
Yes, for more experienced touring cyclists looking for longer distances, there are several moderate routes available. The Carlisle Wood – Hoby Village loop from Syston is a moderate 80.5 km route with over 400 meters of elevation, offering a more extended cycling experience through the Leicestershire countryside.
Wanlip is located near Leicester, which has good public transport links. While direct public transport to every trail starting point might be limited, you can often reach nearby towns or the outskirts of Leicester by bus or train and then cycle a short distance to access the main touring routes. Planning your journey in advance with local transport providers is recommended.


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