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 NOTTINGHAM
Planning a biking holiday in Nottingham? This guide dives into the best routes for cycling and bike touring — whether you’re up for scenic countryside, riverside trails, or urban adventures. With easy-to-follow tips, local insights, and detailed breakdowns of each top route, you’ll be ready to explore Nottingham like a pro on two wheels. Get your tires pumped, your route mapped, and let’s ride!
Top routes for bike lovers
Nottingham might be famous for Robin Hood and its rich lace-making history, but it’s also a dream for cyclists looking for a blend of urban vibes and green escapes. With well-maintained cycle paths, riverside trails, and countryside loops, the city offers something for everyone — from casual riders to hardcore bikepackers.
1. The Big Wheel Loop (22 km)
This circular route connects Nottingham’s best cycling corridors, including Castle Boulevard, the University of Nottingham campus, and the Embankment. It's a perfect intro loop for city explorers with stops for coffee, photos, and even a riverside pint.
Flat and beginner-friendly
Highlights: Trent Bridge, Queen’s Walk Recreation Ground
Best time: Weekdays for less crowd
2. Nottingham to Holme Pierrepont (15 km roundtrip)
This is a sweet ride for those wanting to mix city scenery with a splash of water sports energy. Start from the city centre and follow the River Trent to the National Watersports Centre. Great for a short morning spin.
Family-friendly and traffic-free
Nice picnic spots near the lake
Lots of swans, so ride carefully!
3. Wollaton Park Ride (18 km loop)
Wollaton Hall isn’t just a fancy mansion — it’s the perfect pit stop mid-ride. This loop takes you through tree-lined roads, light gravel paths, and even past some deer if you’re lucky.
Mix of paved and off-road trails
Good balance of nature and history
Café near the main car park
These routes are well-signposted and frequently cycled by locals — making them a solid starting point for your Nottingham bike adventure.
Beyond the city: scenic escapes
If you’re feeling the itch to go further afield and get a taste of rural England, Nottinghamshire’s surrounding countryside delivers some absolute gems for touring cyclists. Think quiet lanes, rolling hills, and charming little pubs you’ll swear were pulled from a movie set.
4. Nottingham to Southwell (40 km roundtrip)
A longer ride that gives you a proper countryside tour without being overwhelming. Southwell Minster is a beautiful endpoint, and you’ll pass through low-traffic country lanes lined with hedgerows and farmlands.
Mostly paved and gentle gradients
Great coffee stop at The Old Theatre Deli
Take a selfie with the cathedral!
5. Sherwood Pines Forest Trails
Just a short drive or train ride from Nottingham, Sherwood Pines offers MTB and gravel riders a playground of trails. While not strictly a touring route, it's worth the detour for the forest magic.
Well-marked red, blue, and green trails
Bike hire available on-site
Great for families or solo adventurers
6. Grantham Canal Path (from West Bridgford, 30 km out & back)
Flat, peaceful, and full of dragonflies in summer. This gravel path is ideal for a chill ride, away from traffic, with lots of nature along the way. Take snacks — no shops mid-route!
Fully off-road with canal views
Spot kingfishers and herons
Start at Lady Bay Bridge
With these routes, you’re never more than 30 minutes away from civilization, but it feels like a world apart. Ideal for day trips or even overnighters if you're packing panniers.
Tips to plan your Nottingham bike trip
Planning a two-wheeled holiday in Nottingham? You’re in for a treat. But before you clip in and zoom off, here’s how to make your bike tour smooth, safe, and full of good vibes.
Check your gear before arrival
While Nottingham has bike shops like Evans Cycles and Rutland Cycling, it’s better to arrive prepped. Make sure your brakes, tires, and chain are in good shape. Pack essentials like a multi-tool, pump, and spare tube.
Use the Nottingham Cycle Map
The city council offers a downloadable and printed cycle map that’s gold for route planning. It highlights bike-friendly roads, quiet streets, and off-road paths. Use it to link your own routes or improvise detours on the fly.
Go light, ride smart
If you’re not touring with full panniers, a small backpack or frame bag will do the trick. Remember: Nottingham has lots of cafés, parks, and bike racks — no need to carry everything. Just lock up responsibly and keep valuables close.
Download Komoot or Strava routes in advance
Book bike-friendly accommodation (B&Bs usually happy to help)
Bring waterproofs — weather changes fast!
Don’t skip hydration stops — lots of parks have refill stations
Talk to locals — they always know the real gems
With a little prep and a sense of adventure, Nottingham offers a perfect balance of city fun and natural escape. Whether you’re in for a weekend blitz or a relaxed week of touring, your pedals are your passport to one of England’s most underrated cycling cities.
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