Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN LEICESTER
Leicester is an underrated gem for cycling holidays. Whether you’re in the mood for a laid-back spin through riverside paths, a ride into rolling countryside, or a tour connecting historical spots, this East Midlands city has a route for it. With a strong cycling culture, car-free corridors, and access to the National Cycle Network, Leicester is a brilliant base for any bike-minded traveller. You’ll find green spaces, smooth paths, friendly locals, and a surprising amount of variety packed into one rideable city. This guide breaks down the best cycling and bike touring routes in Leicester – perfect for anyone planning a cycle-powered vacation.
Best city routes and green corridors
Leicester’s bike-friendly urban network
Leicester’s compact layout makes it easy to get around by bike, and the city has doubled down on its bike infrastructure in recent years. For a smooth and scenic intro to the city, start with the Great Central Way. This traffic-free route follows a disused railway line and stretches for about 8 km from the city centre southwards to Glen Parva. It’s flat, leafy, and perfect for both leisure and commuting rides.
You can also loop into the River Soar Path, which hugs the river through Abbey Park and connects to Watermead Country Park. It’s a chill, picturesque ride that feels more countryside than city — all within a few pedal strokes of central Leicester.
For a quick lunchtime ride or a relaxed sightseeing roll, the Leicester City Circle Ride covers roughly 12 km and takes you past landmarks like King Richard III Visitor Centre, Jubilee Square, and the historic Clock Tower.
Great Central Way: 8 km of flat, peaceful cycling on a former rail line.
River Soar Path: Traffic-free riverside trail through parks and green zones.
City Circle Ride: 12 km of heritage sights and urban cycling.
Abbey Park Loop: Short and scenic route perfect for families.
Bede Park Connector: Great link to cafés, the canal path, and DMU campus.
These city rides are ideal for day one of your Leicester cycling trip — get your bearings, enjoy easy terrain, and maybe even stop for a pint at a riverside pub.
Country lanes and scenic escapes
Get beyond the city and into the hills
Just outside the city limits, Leicester opens up into rolling hills, quiet villages, and sweeping countryside perfect for touring cyclists. If you’re after peaceful roads and big sky views, you’ve got plenty of options.
A great half-day ride is the Leicester–Bradgate–Cropston Loop. It’s roughly 30 km round trip and includes Bradgate Park — home to deer, medieval ruins, and some beautiful climbs. The ride through Cropston is especially tranquil and gives you a proper countryside feel just 20 minutes from town.
Want something a bit longer? Try the Leicester–Wistow–Kibworth circuit, about 45–50 km. You’ll ride past fields, canals, and charming village centres with plenty of stops for coffee or pastries. The route is relatively flat with gentle inclines and low-traffic roads.
Bradgate Park Loop: 30 km return trip through wildlife and historic parkland.
Kibworth Circuit: 50 km of rural roads with café stops and countryside charm.
Newtown Linford Ride: Connects to Charnwood Forest with forest climbs.
Leicester to Market Harborough: About 24 km one way along rolling lanes.
Enderby to Narborough Loop: Ideal 20 km route for low-key exploration.
Pack snacks, bring your camera, and prepare for friendly nods from local cyclists. These rides are perfect for soaking up that East Midlands atmosphere — green, peaceful, and seriously photogenic.
Leisure trails, long-distance and gravel
Cycle touring, gravel adventures, and weekend escapes
If you’re in Leicester for a few days and want to log some serious kilometres — or you’re bringing your gravel bike — the region has plenty to offer. From canal towpaths to bridleways and long-distance cycle routes, you can tailor your touring experience to your vibe.
National Cycle Network Route 6 runs through Leicester and connects to Watermead Country Park and beyond. Follow it north and you’ll reach Loughborough in about 22 km, cruising alongside rivers and wildlife reserves. It’s a brilliant day out for relaxed riders or nature lovers.
For gravel fans, the Bridleway Loop through Charnwood Forest is a must. Expect forest trails, stone paths, and open landscapes. It’s around 35 km depending on how deep you go, and best tackled with a gravel or hybrid bike.
Leicester to Loughborough (Route 6): 22 km one way along rivers and nature spots.
Charnwood Gravel Loop: Forest bridleways and rural connectors, approx. 35 km.
Leicester to Melton Mowbray: About 32 km of scenic road touring.
Soar Valley Ride: Canal-side paths and nature reserves.
Weekend Ride to Rutland Water: A 60+ km journey to one of the UK’s top cycling lakes.
These rides are ideal for those who want a mix of challenge and chill. They’re also great for cycle campers or bikepackers looking to turn their holiday into a proper two-wheeled escape.
Leicester might fly under the radar, but it punches way above its weight for cycling variety and accessibility. Plus, the local bike cafés and support from the community make it a welcoming stop on any UK tour.
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