Sherwood Pines, Clumber Park & the Rother Valley loop from Mansfield

This route is considered a difficult gravel ride, requiring very good fitness. While some sections, particularly within Sherwood Pines, can be rolling and accessible to newer gravel riders, other parts, especially in Rother Valley, feature steep, loose gravel climbs and technical downhill trails that may even require pushing your bike.

The loop offers a diverse range of terrain. You'll encounter singletrack, paved roads, cycleways, and various paths. Specific sections include fire roads, gravel tracks, and hard-packed mud in Sherwood Pines (which can get slippery after rain), multi-user cycle trails and woodland paths in Clumber Park (often paved or compacted gravel), and steep, loose gravel climbs with flowy downhill trails in Rother Valley.

The route is designed to start and finish in Sherwood Pines, which is known for its extensive network of fire roads. You'll find ample parking facilities there, making it a convenient trailhead for this loop.

You'll experience miles of rolling terrain through stunning woodland and sleepy villages. Notable highlights include the beautiful forests of Sherwood Pines and the expansive Clumber Park with its serene woods, lakes, and historical structures. The route also features scenic canal sections with 'locks galore' and 'low bridges', as well as specific points like the Teversal Trail, Viking Trail, Sherwood Pines, and the Chesterfield Canal Towpath.

Given its 'difficult' rating and sections requiring 'very good fitness' with potential bike pushing, the full loop is generally not recommended for beginners or young families. However, individual sections within Sherwood Pines or Clumber Park offer more moderate, rolling terrain that might be suitable for newer gravel riders or families looking for shorter, less challenging rides.

The best time to ride is typically during drier months to avoid the hard-packed mud sections in Sherwood Pines becoming slippery. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Always check weather conditions before heading out.

Generally, dogs are welcome on many public bridleways and trails in the area, including parts of Sherwood Pines and Clumber Park. However, specific rules may apply in certain sections, especially within managed parks or nature reserves. Always keep dogs under control, preferably on a leash, and be mindful of wildlife and other trail users. Check local signage for any restrictions.

While the route itself doesn't typically require a specific permit for cycling, some sections, particularly within managed parks like Clumber Park, may have entrance fees for vehicles or specific activities. It's advisable to check the official websites for Sherwood Pines and Clumber Park for the latest information on any applicable charges or access rules before your visit.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll find it passes through parts of the Rotherham Local Cycle Network, the Cuckoo Way, the Trans-Pennine Trail (Beighton to Staveley spur), and the Viking Trail. It also includes portions of the National Cycle Route number six.

Yes, you'll find opportunities for refreshments. Sherwood Pines has a visitor centre with a cafe. Clumber Park also offers cafes and facilities. Additionally, the route passes through or near sleepy villages, so you may find pubs or small shops, particularly around the canal sections. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially given the route's length.

For this demanding route, you should bring a well-maintained gravel bike, appropriate safety gear including a helmet, and sufficient water and nutrition for a long day out. Given the varied terrain and potential for mechanical issues, a repair kit, spare inner tubes, and a pump are essential. Layered clothing suitable for changing weather conditions is also recommended.