Searching for the best ‘motorcycle routes East Midlands’? From the sweeping bends of the Peak District to the quieter country roads of Rutland, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, there are plenty of great places to explore by bike.
Whether you are planning a full day or a relaxed Sunday morning ride, these routes offer scenic roads, enjoyable corners and plenty of places to stop for coffee.
1. Peak District and Matlock Bath
Suggested route: Matlock Bath, Bakewell, Baslow, Castleton, Winnats Pass, Buxton and Ashbourne
The Peak District is home to some of the most popular motorcycle roads in the region. This route combines flowing A roads, tighter corners, steep climbs and some of Derbyshire’s best scenery.
Start in Matlock Bath, a popular meeting point for motorcyclists, then follow the A6 towards Bakewell. Continue through Baslow and towards Castleton before riding through Winnats Pass.
Winnats Pass is a highlight of many Peak District motorcycle routes, with its steep limestone cliffs and dramatic climb through the valley. From there, head towards Buxton before returning south through the Derbyshire Dales and Ashbourne.
The roads can become busy during sunny weekends, so allow plenty of time, watch for cyclists and take extra care on unfamiliar bends.
Best for: Dramatic scenery and varied roads
Good stops: Matlock Bath, Bakewell, Castleton and Buxton
2. Sherwood Forest and the Dukeries
Suggested route: Nottingham, Southwell, Rufford Abbey, Edwinstowe, Sherwood Forest and Clumber Park
For a relaxed ride close to Nottingham, head north through Southwell and into the countryside surrounding Sherwood Forest.
The roads around Rufford, Edwinstowe and the Dukeries offer a mixture of flowing corners, woodland and open farmland. This is a good route for newer riders, groups or anyone looking for an enjoyable half-day ride without travelling too far.
Sherwood Forest, Rufford Abbey and Clumber Park all provide convenient stopping points. Some of the smaller country lanes can be narrow, so keep an eye out for gravel, farm traffic and cyclists.
Best for: A relaxed local ride
Good stops: Southwell, Rufford Abbey and Sherwood Forest
3. Lincolnshire Wolds
Suggested route: Market Rasen, Caistor, Bluestone Heath Road, Louth, Horncastle and Wragby
The Lincolnshire Wolds offer rolling countryside, quiet roads and far-reaching views. It is a great choice for riders who prefer open roads and fewer crowds.
Start near Market Rasen and travel towards Caistor before following the roads through the Wolds. Bluestone Heath Road is one of the most scenic sections, running along higher ground with excellent countryside views.
Continue towards Louth and Horncastle before returning through Wragby. The route includes a mixture of long open sections and tighter corners, so watch your speed where hills or hedges limit visibility.
Mud and agricultural traffic can also be common on rural roads, particularly after wet weather.
Best for: Quiet roads and open countryside
Good stops: Market Rasen, Louth and Horncastle
4. Rutland Water and Uppingham
Suggested route: Oakham, Cottesmore, Rutland Water, Edith Weston, Ketton, Lyddington and Uppingham
Rutland is ideal for a shorter scenic ride. The county is compact, but its quiet roads, attractive villages and views across Rutland Water make it well worth exploring.
Begin in Oakham and head towards Cottesmore before travelling around the reservoir. Continue through Edith Weston and Ketton, then head south towards Lyddington and Uppingham.
The route is generally more relaxed than the Peak District, making it a good option for newer riders, pillions or a steady summer ride. There are plenty of cafés and stopping points around Oakham, Uppingham and Rutland Water.
Best for: A shorter ride at a relaxed pace
Good stops: Oakham, Rutland Water and Uppingham
5. Vale of Belvoir and Melton Mowbray
Suggested route: Bingham, Bottesford, Belvoir, Croxton Kerrial, Melton Mowbray and Long Clawson
The Vale of Belvoir sits across Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and Lincolnshire, making it an excellent route for riders based around Nottingham.
Start in Bingham and head towards Bottesford before following the country roads through Belvoir and Croxton Kerrial. Continue towards Melton Mowbray, then return through Long Clawson and the surrounding villages.
This route offers sweeping roads, open views and plenty of attractive countryside. Avoid choosing the fastest satnav route, as the smaller roads often provide the most enjoyable riding.
Some lanes can be narrow or uneven, so watch for mud, loose surfaces and slow-moving farm vehicles.
Best for: A half-day ride from Nottingham
Good stops: Bottesford, Belvoir and Melton Mowbray
Preparing for Your Ride
Before heading out, check your tyre pressures, fluid levels, lights and chain. Make sure you have enough fuel for rural sections and save your route offline in case your phone signal drops. A suitable piece of motorcycle luggage can also make it easier to carry waterproofs, water and other essentials.
Weather conditions can change quickly, particularly on higher ground in Derbyshire. A warm start in Nottingham can become wet and windy in the Peak District, so carry a waterproof layer and choose suitable motorcycle clothing for the forecast.
A properly fitted motorcycle helmet, protective motorcycle jacket, motorcycle trousers, gloves and motorcycle boots will help keep you comfortable and protected throughout the ride.
During warmer weather, consider breathable summer motorcycle jackets, summer motorcycle trousers and summer motorcycle boots to improve airflow without giving up essential protection.
Before setting off on any of these motorcycle routes East Midlands riders love, make sure your bike and riding kit are ready for the journey. Shop riding gear online at BDLA Motorbikes or visit our Nottingham store for help choosing the right equipment for your next adventure.
