For the latest information join and ask questions on the Coal and Canopy Facebook page. We will endeavour to respond to queries here and publish current information to keep you informed.
All of the routes have been designed to take advantage of as much off-road riding as possible, sometimes avoiding the worst of the mud! A gravel bike with good tyre tread would be ideal and mountain bikes would also be fine although slower on the lane sections.
The main loop passes directly past three MTB centres so that might also be a consideration for you. In winter or after wet periods it also might be worth considering using an MTB as there are some sections of the route that can get quite muddy.
Our Google MyMaps gives a high level overview of the main points of interest, cafe’s, railway stations, sections of the route to take care on, and MTB centres.
For a long list of cafe’s in the area then consult the brilliant Cycling Coffee and Cake Stops facebook page and associated map which is a community led resource.
If you are wanting to explore the area as an organised tour then take a look at National Forest E-Bike Holidays who offer this as a service with luggage transfer.
Accomodation
We do not currently have a definitive list of accommodation on the routes and would instead point you towards the following resources:
| Bike Packing facebook groups. | There are a number of different Facebook groups (such as Bicycle Travellers) which support recommendations for places to overnight camp in the UK. Join one of these for advice on places to stay if you are planning to camp. |
| Warm Showers | This service offers simple and cost effective overnight accommodation in return for you also making your own home available to other travellers. |
| Premier Inn | Premier Inn normally allow you to store bikes in your room or provide suitable storage. There are premier Inn’s in Ashby, Fradley, Burton Central, Burton East, and Loughborough on the route, as well as some slightly off route such as in Stafford. |
| Airbnb | Range of accommodation for stay. You can request information about bike storage. |
| Charnwood Forest Map | For the Charnia area there is a map that is kept updated with accomodation in the area including campsites. |
| Tourist Information | Consult the relevant tourist information centres for more information about camping or other alternative overnight accomodation. |