Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
MTB trails
United Kingdom
England
East Midlands
Leicestershire
Charnwood

Thurmaston

The best MTB trails around Thurmaston

4.3

(14)

125

riders

42

rides

Mountain biking around Thurmaston offers access to a landscape characterized by reservoirs, woodlands, and parklands. The area features a mix of flat sections and gentle rolling hills, providing varied terrain for mountain bikers. Routes often traverse through nature reserves and alongside water bodies, with some elevation changes. This makes the region suitable for different skill levels, from easy family rides to more moderate excursions.

Best mountain bike trails around Thurmaston

  • The most popular mountain bike trail is Swithland Reservoir –…

Last updated: May 4, 2026

9

riders

#1.

Swithland Reservoir – The Labyrinth loop from Sileby

38.0km

02:31

370m

370m

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Moderate

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
guide_signup
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

Sign up for free

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
Sign up for free to see 38 more rides around Thurmaston.

Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Thurmaston

Running Trails around Thurmaston

Road Cycling Routes around Thurmaston

Hiking around Thurmaston

Cycling around Thurmaston

Tips from the Community

Richard
August 28, 2025, Café at the Top of Beacon Hill

beacon hill great views

0

0

Lovely place to be out with family

1

0

Baboon
March 3, 2025, Bradgate Park

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

0

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.

4

0

Grace Mulligan
November 21, 2024, Swithland Wood

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

0

John Merrick's Lake is one of numerous lakes within the Reedbed Nature Reserve. The reserve is a great place for birdwatching, with wildlife all around you.

1

0

The stretch of road in Kinchley Lane going past Swithland Reservoir is a super nice biking stretch, mainly tree-lined, but you will still get some good reservoir views here and there.

2

0

Swithland Reservoir is a stunning reservoir and is one of the biggest ones in Leicestershire. They say it has over 200 bird species and is a proper little hotspot for birdwatchers.

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available around Thurmaston?

There are over 40 mountain bike trails around Thurmaston listed on komoot. These routes offer a diverse range of experiences, from easy rides through parklands to more moderate excursions around reservoirs and woodlands.

Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families in Thurmaston?

Yes, Thurmaston offers several easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners and families. Approximately half of the routes in the area are rated as easy. An excellent option is Swithland Reservoir – Swithland Wood loop from Charnwood, an easy 10.9-mile (17.5 km) path that winds through Swithland Wood, providing a pleasant forested riding experience.

What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails near Thurmaston?

The terrain around Thurmaston is characterized by a mix of flat sections and gentle rolling hills. You'll find routes traversing nature reserves, alongside water bodies like reservoirs, and through dense woodlands and open parklands. This variety makes the region suitable for different skill levels.

Are there any long-distance mountain bike routes for more experienced riders?

For those looking for a longer ride, the area offers several moderate trails. The Bradgate Park Visitor Centre – John Merrick's Lake loop from Leicester is a substantial 34.7-mile (55.9 km) trail that takes you through Bradgate Park and past John Merrick's Lake, offering a rewarding challenge.

What are some notable natural attractions or landmarks I might see while mountain biking in Thurmaston?

Many mountain bike routes in Thurmaston pass by significant natural and historical landmarks. You can explore areas like Swithland Reservoir and Cropston Reservoir, or ride through Swithland Wood. Bradgate Park also features the Bradgate Park Deer Park and historical sites like the Ruins of Bradgate House and Old John Tower.

Are there circular mountain bike routes available in Thurmaston?

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Thurmaston are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the popular Swithland Reservoir – The Labyrinth loop from Sileby is a 23.6-mile (38.0 km) circular trail that explores the area around Swithland Reservoir.

What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Thurmaston?

The mountain bike trails in Thurmaston are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the scenic views of reservoirs, and the peaceful woodland sections.

Is there parking available near the mountain bike trails in Thurmaston?

While specific parking information varies by trailhead, many popular starting points for trails around Thurmaston, especially near larger parks and reservoirs like Bradgate Park and Swithland Reservoir, offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for parking recommendations.

Can I reach mountain bike trails in Thurmaston using public transport?

Thurmaston and its surrounding areas are generally accessible by public transport, particularly buses from Leicester. Some trailheads might be a short ride or walk from bus stops. For routes starting further afield, like those from Sileby or Charnwood, train services might also be an option. Always check local public transport schedules and routes to plan your journey.

Are there any mountain bike trails that offer views of lakes or reservoirs?

Absolutely. The region around Thurmaston is known for its reservoirs. Many trails offer stunning views of water bodies. The Stone Bridge in Abbey Park – Thornton Reservoir loop from Wanlip is a 46.3-mile (46.3 km) route that includes views of Thornton Reservoir, providing a picturesque riding experience.

What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Thurmaston?

Mountain biking in Thurmaston can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also great, though trails can be busier. Winter rides are possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions, especially in woodland areas.

Are there any moderate difficulty mountain bike trails for intermediate riders?

Yes, approximately half of the mountain bike routes in Thurmaston are rated as moderate, offering a good challenge for intermediate riders. The Bradgate Park – The Labyrinth loop from Leicester is a moderate 46.7-mile (46.7 km) trail with varied elevation, providing an engaging ride through the scenic Bradgate Park area.

Most popular routes around Thurmaston

Running Trails around Thurmaston

Most popular attractions around Thurmaston

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.

Newtown LinfordHathernCotesWalton On The WoldsThe OutwoodsShepshedStonebow VillagePrestwoldBurton On The WoldsWoodhouseUlverscroftSwithlandQuorndonBlackbrook ReservoirThrussingtonRearsbyCotesMountsorrelAnsteyBarrow Upon SoarBirstallWymeswoldHotonWanlipRothleyCropston ReservoirThurcaston And CropstonCossingtonRatcliffe On The WreakeBarkbySystonEast GoscoteQueniboroughSeagraveSilebyBeebyBarkby ThorpeSouth Croxton

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Syston

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy