A landscape with a story
At its heart lies the National Forest, one of the UK’s most ambitious regeneration projects and the first new forest created in England in over 1,000 years. Where coal mines and quarries once stood, millions of trees now shape a new landscape of woodland, lakes and wildlife. Regeneration here is not a concept, it is part of daily life, from community orchards and woodland crafts to volunteers who continue to shape the forest.
It’s a region where ancient rock formations, traditional countryside and new woodland sit side by side. One day you’re riding through Charnwood Forest, another along canal towpaths or into historic towns like Market Bosworth, where independent shops and long standing pubs still define local life. This area remains quietly under the radar.
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Community first routes
These are not random cycling and walking paths stitched together. Each route is curated to bring you through the heart of the National Forest’s towns, waterways and working countryside.
Along the way, you pass village pubs, small museums, independent shops and local makers. You are encouraged to linger, browse, talk, taste and explore. There is even a shopping collection service so you can support local makers without worrying about carrying everything on your bike.
Guests can also volunteer in woodland projects or meet residents restoring orchards and running charcoal burning enterprises.