The best road cycling routes around Barkby
4.7
(96)
4,762
riders
411
rides
Road cycling routes around Barkby feature an undulating rural landscape characterized by agricultural land and rolling hills. The area provides access to varied terrain suitable for road cyclists, with a mix of inclines and descents. This Leicestershire village is surrounded by tranquil farmland, offering scenic rides through quiet country lanes.
Best road cycling routes around Barkby
- The most popular road cycling route is Tour of the Soar from Syston, a 48.2 miles (77.6 km) trail that takes 3 hours…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
4.5
(2)
39
riders
77.6km
03:23
450m
450m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
102
riders
70.1km
03:07
450m
450m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5.0
(1)
67
riders
52.4km
02:22
340m
340m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.3
(3)
54
riders
38.4km
01:49
200m
200m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
47
riders
42.5km
02:19
210m
210m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Nice Little Cafe for Small Groups. Indoor and Outdoor Seating. Nice Friendly Staff
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Courtyard Cafe is Ok for a weekday. Wheel your bike through the Garden Centre. Would be too busy at the weekend. Good Coffee and a good menu
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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!
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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.
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Lovely cake and coffee with a covered seating porch to get out of the rain!
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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.
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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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I love this climb. Like everyone says it is nice and steady and a good length. Watch out for the Get Busy Living Centre promoted by Matt Hampson and also the Airborne Memorial on the left. If you want a harder climb to Burrough try the nearby ascent from the Dalbys.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling around Barkby?
The Barkby area is characterized by an undulating rural landscape, featuring agricultural land and rolling hills. You'll find a mix of inclines and descents, providing varied challenges for road cyclists. Some sections are even playfully referred to as the 'Leicestershire Alps' due to their significant climbs.
How many road cycling routes are available in the Barkby area?
There are over 400 road cycling routes available around Barkby on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, with more than 100 easy routes, nearly 300 moderate options, and over 20 challenging trails for experienced cyclists.
Are there any easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or more relaxed rides?
Yes, the Barkby area offers over 100 easy road cycling routes. An example is the QueniBean Café – Racehub Lake loop from Syston, which is about 37.7 km long with a manageable elevation gain of around 200 meters.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Barkby?
The road cycling routes around Barkby are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the tranquil farmland scenery, the engaging undulating terrain, and the variety of routes available for different abilities.
Are there any notable landmarks or natural features to see along the cycling routes?
Yes, many routes pass by or near significant natural and historical attractions. You might cycle past Swithland Reservoir, a mile-long body of water, or the historic Burrough Hill Iron Age Fort. The area also features beautiful woodlands like Swithland Wood.
Can I find routes that include climbs for a more challenging experience?
Absolutely. The undulating countryside around Barkby is perfect for cyclists seeking climbs. Routes like the Burrough Road Climb – Whissendine Level Crossing loop from Syston, which features over 450 meters of elevation gain, offer a challenging experience through varied rural landscapes.
Are there any road cycling routes that pass by reservoirs or offer waterside views?
Yes, several routes provide waterside scenery. The Barrow-upon-Soar Bridge – View of Cropston Reservoir loop from Syston is a great option, leading through the Leicestershire countryside and offering views of Cropston Reservoir. You can also view Swithland Reservoir from roads at its northern and southern ends.
What is a popular longer-distance road cycling route in the Barkby area?
A popular longer-distance route is the Tour of the Soar from Syston. This route spans approximately 77.6 km (48.2 miles) and explores the local river valley and surrounding countryside, typically taking around 3 hours and 23 minutes to complete.
Are there any routes that include local cafes or farm shops for a stop?
Yes, some routes are designed with convenient stops in mind. For example, the Racehub Lake – Hill Top Farm Shop & Café loop from Syston offers a pleasant ride with the opportunity to visit a local farm shop and café along the way.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Barkby?
The undulating countryside and agricultural landscapes of Barkby are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the tranquil farmland, while autumn provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Can I find routes that are circular or loop back to the starting point?
Many of the road cycling routes around Barkby are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. This is convenient for those who drive to their starting point. You can filter for circular routes on komoot to find options that suit your preferences.
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