4.7
(229)
2,045
riders
307
rides
Touring cycling routes around Barkby Thorpe are characterized by tranquil agricultural lands and proximity to diverse natural landscapes in Leicestershire. The area features gentle terrain with quiet country lanes, offering access to ancient woodlands like Charnwood Forest and scenic water views around Swithland Reservoir. While the immediate surroundings are dominated by farmland, the region provides a network of paths suitable for various cycling experiences. Elevations are generally low, with most routes featuring gradual ascents and descents.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
4.5
(14)
95
riders
30.4km
01:47
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
14
riders
40.8km
02:27
280m
280m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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17
riders
81.1km
04:48
430m
430m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
riders
67.2km
03:58
370m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
13
riders
58.0km
03:29
410m
410m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Plenty of indoor seating, lovely outdoor seating area too. People ride here to eat scones…they are worth it! 😋 Great family (hi)story regarding the beginnings of the tea room 👏🏼
0
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Plenty of space indoors, but a lovely outdoors space too. People ride out here to eat scones…they’re worth it! Great family (hi)story around the cafe beginnings too 👏🏼
0
0
Great pit stop for coffee and cake. No indoor seating but plenty of outdoor seating round the back and covered seating with blankets and heaters round the front. Cake is TASTY!
0
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Great pit stop for coffee and cake. Loads of outdoor seating with some covered areas with blankets and heater. No indoor seating inside shop and cafe.
1
0
Lovely cake and coffee with a covered seating porch to get out of the rain!
0
0
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
There are over 320 touring cycling routes available around Barkby Thorpe, catering to a wide range of preferences and skill levels. This includes 105 easy routes, 167 moderate routes, and 51 more challenging options.
Touring cycling around Barkby Thorpe offers a diverse landscape, primarily characterized by tranquil agricultural lands and quiet country lanes. You'll also find ancient woodlands like Charnwood Forest and Swithland Wood, as well as scenic water views around Swithland Reservoir and Watermead Country Park.
Yes, the region offers several interesting natural features and historical landmarks. You can cycle past the scenic Swithland Reservoir, explore the ancient Swithland Wood, or visit the expansive Bradgate Park Deer Park. The historic Ruins of Bradgate House are also a significant point of interest.
The touring cycling routes around Barkby Thorpe are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the peaceful agricultural settings, the variety of routes, and the scenic views, particularly around the reservoirs and woodlands.
Yes, for those looking for longer rides, routes like the Carlisle Wood – Hoby Village loop from Syston cover approximately 80 km (50 miles) and the Hoby Village – Barrow-upon-Soar Bridge loop from Syston is around 67 km (42 miles), offering extensive exploration through the Leicestershire countryside.
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Barkby Thorpe are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Watermead Country Park – Great Central Way loop from Syston and the Church View Nursery – John O' Gaunt Viaduct loop from Syston.
Absolutely. For families or beginners, easy routes like the Watermead Country Park – Bridge Over the River Soar loop from Thurmaston are ideal. These routes typically feature gentle terrain and offer picturesque views in a safe environment.
The best time for touring cycling in Barkby Thorpe is generally from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically milder, and the agricultural landscapes are vibrant. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery.
Yes, several routes provide lovely water views. The Watermead Country Park – Great Central Way loop from Syston and the Watermead Country Park – Bridge Over the River Soar loop from Thurmaston both offer picturesque views of Watermead Country Park and the River Soar. Additionally, routes near Swithland Reservoir provide scenic backdrops.
The terrain around Barkby Thorpe is generally gentle, characterized by low elevations and gradual ascents and descents. Most routes utilize quiet country lanes and paths, making for a pleasant and accessible touring cycling experience through agricultural lands and woodlands.
Yes, you can find routes that incorporate historical elements. For instance, the Church View Nursery – John O' Gaunt Viaduct loop from Syston takes you past the impressive historic John O' Gaunt Viaduct, offering a glimpse into the region's past.


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