Hicks Lodge
A beautiful woodland escape in the National Forest, offering fantastic cycling, family fun, and scenic walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful woodland walks
Hicks Lodge
Best Time
Peaceful woodland walks
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful woodland escape in the National Forest, offering fantastic cycling, family fun, and scenic walks.
"AWSOME & OUTSTANDING BEAUTY surrounds the area, views to remember, moments in which you feel nature, not just see it!"
🎯 Check Toilet Hours
Toilets close at 5 PM, same as the cafe. Plan accordingly, especially with family. :toilet:
🚴♀️ Bike Hire Available
Rent bikes on-site for exploring the extensive trail network. :bike:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pedal and Play Area
Main visitor area
A unique, family-friendly cycle route with skill-building challenges for all ages.
Stick Man Trail
Main walking trail
An enchanting 2km woodland walk featuring signs from the beloved children's book.
Gravel Bike Trails
Forest trails
Explore dedicated gravel and MTB trails winding through scenic woodlands.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bike Trails & Family Fun
Embrace the Outdoors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Toilet Hours
Toilets close at 5 PM, same as the cafe. Plan accordingly, especially with family. :toilet:
🚴♀️ Bike Hire Available
Rent bikes on-site for exploring the extensive trail network.
☕ Cafe Delights
Enjoy lovely coffee, cake, and soup at the on-site cafe. :coffee:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Walks
Leashed dogs are welcome on the paths, perfect for a canine adventure. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Toilet Hours
Toilets close at 5 PM, same as the cafe. Plan accordingly, especially with family. :toilet:
🚴♀️ Bike Hire Available
Rent bikes on-site for exploring the extensive trail network.
☕ Cafe Delights
Enjoy lovely coffee, cake, and soup at the on-site cafe. :coffee:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Walks
Leashed dogs are welcome on the paths, perfect for a canine adventure. :dog:
🌳 Woodland Exploration
Wander through beautiful woods, enjoy picnics, and soak in nature's beauty. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Hicks Lodge, praising its beautiful woodland setting, well-maintained trails, and family-friendly atmosphere. The cafe is noted for its lovely cakes and coffee, and the cycling facilities are a major draw. Some find it a bit expensive, and toilet hours can be a consideration.
"Been meaning to visit here for a while and it did not disappoint. Lovely place, gravel paths around lake and through the woods. Nice and clean with no litter. Staff I spoke to were friendly and helpful. Had a great afternoon with my dogs and will definitely visit again"
Joyce Sutton
"EXPENSIVE, but its worth it, bike hire, toilets, cafe, the best it yet to come....
AWSOME & OUTSTANDING BEAUTY surrounds the area, views to remember, moments in which you feel nature, not just see it!
A must see and do, explore, relax, enjoy the peace..❤️❤️❤️"
Mark longdon
"Love it! Amazing cake, soup and coffee and some good bike trails. Upgraded kids play area is much improved too!"
Daniel Burton Photography
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hicks Lodge is located in the heart of the National Forest, near Ashby-de-la-Zouch. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. The postcode is LE65 2UP.
Information on public transport options is limited, so driving is generally recommended for ease of access.
There is a visitor centre with parking facilities. While generally good, it can get busy during peak times.
Yes, Hicks Lodge is part of the National Forest cycle network, making it accessible by bike for those coming from surrounding areas.
The main paths around the lake are generally gravel and relatively flat, making them accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Hicks Lodge itself is free. There may be charges for parking, bike hire, or specific activities.
The visitor centre and cafe typically close around 5 PM. It's advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours.
Yes, bike hire is available on-site, offering a range of bikes for different ages and abilities.
The Pedal and Play area is generally included with access to Hicks Lodge, but specific activity charges may apply.
Information on discounts is not widely available, but it's always worth checking the official Hicks Lodge website or inquiring at the visitor centre.
🎫 🚴♀️ Cycling & Trails
Hicks Lodge offers a variety of trails, from the easy 2km lakeside path to more challenging single-track routes through the forest. The Pedal and Play area is also a highlight.
Yes, there are beginner-friendly trails, including the fairly flat 2km route around the lake and the Pedal and Play area designed for skill introduction.
Absolutely! Hicks Lodge is a popular spot for cyclists to bring their own bikes, especially gravel and mountain bikes.
Yes, Hicks Lodge features dedicated single-track trails with twists and turns through the forest, ideal for mountain biking.
Yes, cycling clubs and groups, like Forest Gravel Cycling Club and Grit Grrrls Cycling, often organize social rides here.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy woodland walks, the Stick Man trail, a children's play area, picnic spots, and relax at the cafe.
Yes, there is a visitor centre with a playground, which has been upgraded and is much improved.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Hicks Lodge, provided they are kept on a lead.
Facilities include a visitor centre, cafe, toilets, bike hire, and a children's play area.
Yes, there are designated picnic spots, making it a great location for a family picnic amidst nature.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe at Hicks Lodge that serves lovely coffee, cake, and soup. +1
The cafe offers a selection of drinks, cakes, and soup, making it a pleasant spot to refuel.
Yes, Hicks Lodge is a great spot for picnics, and you are welcome to bring your own food to enjoy in the designated areas.
Specific dietary options are not detailed, but cafes often have a range of choices. It's best to inquire directly.
The cafe typically closes at 5 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Pedal and Play area provides a unique cycling experience designed for skill development, and the upgraded playground ensures plenty of fun. +1 Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy in the scenic spots, and remember that the cafe offers refreshments. For cycling, the 2km lakeside trail is perfect for little legs, and bike hire is available if needed.
Be mindful of the cafe and toilet closing times, which are typically around 5 PM, to avoid any last-minute rushes. 🚴♀️ Cycling Enthusiasts
+1 The Pedal and Play area is also a great spot to hone your skills. Many cycling groups, like Forest Gravel Cycling Club, use Hicks Lodge for their rides, so you might find a friendly group to join. +1Whether you bring your own bike or opt for hire, the variety of trails ensures an engaging ride.
The National Forest Explorer routes also pass through here, offering longer cycling adventures. 🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cycling Adventures at Hicks Lodge
+1 The recent addition of the Pedal and Play area is a standout feature, designed to introduce riders to new skills in a fun and safe environment, making it a unique attraction in England. For those who enjoy off-road cycling, the gravel and mountain bike trails provide a thrilling experience with twists, turns, and natural challenges.
+1 The site is also a hub for cycling communities, with groups like Forest Gravel Cycling Club and Grit Grrrls Cycling frequently organizing social rides, fostering a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. +1 Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, Hicks Lodge offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the National Forest on two wheels.Bike hire is readily available on-site, ensuring that visitors without their own equipment can still partake in the cycling fun.
Family Fun and Woodland Exploration
The upgraded children's play area provides a space for kids to burn off energy and have fun. Beyond the specific attractions, the woodland walks themselves offer a peaceful escape. Visitors can wander through the trees, enjoy the fresh air, and appreciate the natural beauty of the area, which was once a coal mining site but has been transformed into a vibrant green space.
Dogs are also welcome at Hicks Lodge, provided they are kept on a lead, making it a great outing for the entire family, including furry members.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit