We Saved the Best Views for Last – Coal and Canopy Way Day 3

Coal & Canopy Way Bikepacking | Day 3: Thornton Reservoir to Melbourne

The final day of our Coal & Canopy Way bikepacking adventure begins at Thornton Reservoir as we set out for the last miles of this incredible journey across the heart of England.

Today’s ride takes us through the rolling landscapes of the National Forest, following a mixture of quiet lanes, gravel tracks and greenways towards Melbourne. One of the day’s standout moments comes at Breedon-on-the-Hill, where a climb to the historic hilltop priory rewards us with breathtaking panoramic views across Leicestershire, Derbyshire and beyond. From this unique vantage point, the scale of the landscape and the transformation of the former industrial heartlands into thriving countryside becomes clear.

As the journey nears its conclusion, we join the superb Cloud Trail, a traffic-free route following a former railway line. The gentle gradients, open countryside and rich railway heritage provide the perfect finale to three unforgettable days of bikepacking.

From peaceful canals and historic bridges to forest trails, reservoirs and spectacular viewpoints, the Coal & Canopy Way has delivered a remarkable mix of history, scenery and adventure. Join us as we complete the final stage and reflect on an epic bikepacking journey across one of Britain’s newest long-distance cycling routes.

full collection of routes:

our day 3 route:
https://www.komoot.com/tour/2963744219?share_token=acPnSyF1sIM5kCes29gd70wO3O7NtlcTDpmwUJekk6lvJfSUHM&ref=wtd&t_s=referral&t_cid=route_share&t_ref_username=1681213145680

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Equipment I use:
DJI Action Cam 4
DJI Mic Mini

DJI Neo 2 Drone

Rob’s Bike:
Planet X Tempest V4 Titanium.
Hunt all road wheels with SON Dynamo front hub

Lisa’s Bike:
Sonder Camino Al
Grx Groupset
Hunt all road rear wheel with DT Swiss Dynamo front wheel