Nottingham is a great place to go for a walk and also a bike ride or two - especially now that the weather is getting better. There are some incredibly scenic routes on offer in the city across country parks, meadows and along the River Trent.
While some of the cycle paths can be more difficult than others, there are lots of ways to get creative to accommodate younger cyclists and make your own routes. Not only that but there are one or two routes with perfectly placed coffee shops where you can stop for a quick refuel with a cheeky slice of cake.
Just make sure to remember your helmet and watch out for passers-by. Here is our guide to the top five best bike rides in the city and beyond.
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Colwick county park
Mile End Road, NG4 2DW
Colwick Country Park is a great place to go for not just a circular, easy route but also the perfect picnic spot. The scenic park has two large lakes, a marina, woodland and meadows.
It is nicely paved most of the way around the route so there are no hidden potholes or uneven surfaces in most of the park but there are ongoing paving works that may mean a detour or dismount. There are options to go off-road if you fancy a harder workout but be careful of passers by as the woodlands can get quite busy in good weather.
If you don't have a bike of your own, the visitor centre does operate some cycles for hire although it is worth pre-booking before arrival. After all the hard work, it's worth a stop at the Wired van which sells coffee, ice cream and cobs. There is some parking available but it fills up quickly so going earlier to ensure a space might be a better option.
River Trent to Attenborough Nature Reserve Loop
Station Road, Beeston
This is one of the more difficult trails according to experts and some parts may require you to push the bikes. However, if you are interested in a bit of a workout then the Trent to Attenborough Nature Reserve Loop is a scenic path where you might even spot some wildlife.
The trail starts at Beeston train station before following the Trent river and looping around to Attenborough. It is a longer route than it looks and it is estimated to take 3.5 hours in total to complete.
Cotgrave Canal & Country Park Cycle Route
Cotgrave Country Park. NG12 3HE
The Cotgrave Canal and Country Park is a four-mile rural cycle route through the heart of Nottinghamshire. The beautiful route includes woodland, wetlands, lakes and an informal grassland while the Grantham canal also runs through the park.
Visit Nottinghamshire has a handy map that explains the start and finish point for the route along with attractions to keep an eye out for on your travels. The county park is generally considered an easy bike ride to choose and there are several different routes available locally if you want to mix it up a bit.
Should you need a re-fuel then there are plenty of opportunities to stop for coffee and a cheeky bit of cake in Cotgrave.
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The Big Track Waterside Cycle Route
This is definitely one for adults and older children as it spans 10 miles. The 'moderately challenging' route can be broken down into different options that make it easier for little legs but the full track is estimated to take four hours to complete.
If you can manage it, the Big Track takes you around the city from Trent Bridge to Beeston Lock with the city centre in between. It makes it easy to stop at tourist spots such as Nottingham Forest Football Club and the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground or Castle Marina.
There is plenty of wildlife to spot on the way such as herons, swans or ducks that all live on the River Trent. The route is also popular with dog walkers which is something to watch out for. There is also parking at the Victoria Embankment so long as you pay and display.
It is an urban trail so there aren't any huge hills to encounter as most of the footpath is flat with few ramps or stairs that may require you to push a bike through.
Rushcliffe County Park
Mere Way, NG11 6JS
There are over 200 acres to explore by bike or on foot at this country park including wildflowers, meadows, grasslands, conversation areas and landscaped gardens. There are also lakes where you can see many different birds and wildlife as you cycle.
The route is estimated to be 2 miles and relatively easy although it is possible to adjust this for little legs that might be joining you on the trip. The park is accessible at any time but it is worth noting that the toilets and car park are not. They open from 8 am until 6 pm and there is also coffee onsite at the Tree Tops Catering.
