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Cykling
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Gravelcykling
5.0
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The Rutland Water Cycle Route offers an exceptional way to explore Rutland Water, England's largest reservoir by surface area, nestled in the picturesque East Midlands county of Rutland, just east of Oakham. This extensive, mostly traffic-free pathway encircles the vast body of water, providing a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical landmarks within a significant nature reserve.
Visitors consistently praise the route for its stunning scenery and the diverse experience it offers, from tranquil lakeside stretches to…
Tips
9. august 2020
Cykling
10. august 2020
Cykling
3. juli 2022
Cykling
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Ruter i nærheden
Bedste ruter nær Rutland Water Cycle Route
4
Cyklister
66,8km
04:10
570m
570m
Svær cykeltur. Kræver meget god kondition. For det meste belagte overflader. Egnet for alle færdighedsniveauer.
5,0
(4)
79
Cyklister
41,4km
02:50
350m
350m
Middel cykeltur. Kræver god kondition. For det meste belagte overflader. Egnet for alle færdighedsniveauer.
5,0
(3)
48
Cyklister
43,2km
02:46
280m
280m
Middel cykeltur. Kræver god kondition. For det meste belagte overflader. Egnet for alle færdighedsniveauer.
Detaljer
Oplysninger
Afstand 279 m
Nedstigning 0 m
Vejr
Drevet af Foreca
I dag
fredag 20. marts
12°C
4°C
-- %
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Maks. vindhastighed: -- km/h
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The Rutland Water Cycle Route features a varied terrain, including sections of tarmac, gravel, and woodland tracks. While generally considered mostly flat to gently undulating, there are some short, steeper inclines, particularly around the Hambleton Peninsula. Cyclists have noted that the gravel sections are manageable on road bikes but are more comfortable on gravel or mountain bikes. The maximum depth of the reservoir is 34 meters, but the route itself does not involve significant elevation changes, making it accessible for a range of abilities.
Parking is available at several points around Rutland Water, including popular spots like Normanton, Whitwell, and Sykes Lane. While the intro mentions parking is available, it's important to note that parking often fills up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving before mid-morning is strongly recommended to secure a spot. Most car parks are managed by Anglian Water and typically require a fee, which contributes to the upkeep of the facilities and nature reserve.
Yes, the route is largely traffic-free and offers a mostly flat to gently undulating experience, making it suitable for families and beginner cyclists. The full loop is 23 miles, which can be a long distance for very young children. A shorter 17-mile option, which excludes the Hambleton Peninsula, is available and often preferred for a more leisurely family ride. Bike hire facilities are also available, making it convenient for those who don't own bikes or are visiting.
Dogs are generally welcome on the Rutland Water Cycle Route and in many of the surrounding areas, provided they are kept under control, preferably on a lead, especially near wildlife and other visitors. There are specific areas, particularly within the nature reserve sections, where dogs may need to be kept on leads or are restricted to protect nesting birds and other wildlife. Always check local signage for specific rules and regulations.
The Rutland Water Cycle Route is a very popular destination and can get quite busy, especially on weekends, bank holidays, and during school holidays. To avoid the largest crowds, it is best to visit on weekdays, particularly outside of peak summer months. Early mornings are also generally quieter, even on weekends. If you plan to cycle, fitting a bell to your bike is a practical tip for alerting pedestrians on busy sections.
Beyond the stunning reservoir views, the route offers several notable landmarks. The iconic Normanton Church, which appears to float on the water when the reservoir is full, is a popular photographic spot. The Hambleton Peninsula provides expansive, uninterrupted views across the water. The area is also an internationally important nature reserve, home to over 300 bird species, including breeding ospreys, which can often be spotted from various viewpoints and bird hides, particularly at the western end's nature reserve.
Yes, there are several opportunities for refreshments and amenities directly on or very close to the Rutland Water Cycle Route. You'll find cafes at key visitor hubs like Whitwell, Normanton, and Sykes Lane. There are also pubs in nearby villages, such as Hambleton, which is located on the peninsula. These spots offer convenient breaks for food, drinks, and toilet facilities, enhancing the overall experience of your ride or walk.
Rutland Water is a haven for wildlife, particularly birds, due to its status as an internationally important nature reserve. Birdwatchers can expect to see a diverse array of species, including various ducks, geese, waders, and raptors. Most famously, it is home to a thriving population of ospreys, which can be observed fishing during the warmer months. The Anglian Water Bird Watching Centre and numerous hides around the western end of the reservoir provide excellent viewing opportunities for these and many other species.
Absolutely. While the full Rutland Water Cycle Route is 23 miles (37 km), a popular shorter option excludes the Hambleton Peninsula, reducing the distance to approximately 17 miles (27 km). This shorter loop still offers a fantastic experience with varied scenery. Additionally, you can choose to cycle just a section of the route, starting and finishing at any of the main car parks, and simply turn back when you've had enough. This flexibility makes it easy to tailor your ride to your fitness level or available time.
In early 2022, one of the longest and most complete Ichthyosaur fossils ever found in the UK, nicknamed the 'Rutland Sea Dragon,' was discovered on the edge of Rutland Water. This incredible marine reptile lived during the Jurassic period, approximately 180 million years ago. While the fossil itself is not on public display at the reservoir, its discovery highlights the rich geological history of the area and adds another layer of intrigue to Rutland Water's natural heritage.
Much of the Rutland Water Cycle Route is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, particularly the tarmac sections. However, some parts of the route include gravel tracks and woodland paths, which can be uneven or muddy, making them challenging for standard wheelchairs or pushchairs. It's advisable to check specific sections if accessibility is a primary concern. The visitor centres and main car park areas generally offer good accessibility.