The best cycling routes in North West England

Embark on a challenging touring cycling adventure through the Lake District with this difficult 22.2 miles (35.7 km) loop. You will climb a total of 2165 feet (660 metres) and can expect to complete the ride in about 2 hours and 32 minutes. The route takes you past the serene waters of Derwentwater and through the picturesque Borrowdale Valley, offering dramatic views as you approach Buttermere Lake, framed by Fleetwith Edge and Honister Crag.

This is a demanding ride that requires very good fitness, especially when tackling Honister Pass and Newlands Pass, both featuring gradients up to 25%. Be aware that the road conditions can be tricky when wet, potentially causing wheelspin, and you may need to dismount and push your bike on a segment of Honister Pass. Plan your visit carefully to account for these challenging sections.

Considered one of the most spectacular cycling routes in the Lake District National Park, this loop offers more than just a physical challenge. At the summit of Honister Pass, you will find the Honister Slate Mine, which includes a cafe. This provides a welcome opportunity for a break and refreshment after conquering the climb, adding a unique point of interest to your journey.

Embark on The Wirral loop from Neston, a moderate touring bicycle ride covering 35.8 miles (57.5 km) with a gentle 668 feet (204 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 3 hours and 58 minutes. You will cycle along coastal paths of the Dee Estuary, enjoying tranquil marshland views and glimpses towards North Wales. Much of the route follows the Wirral Way, a traffic-free green corridor built on a disused railway line, offering a mix of off-road and on-road sections, including some steep ramps at points like Mellock Lane.

While generally considered moderate, some unpaved or challenging segments might require good fitness, so be prepared for varied terrain. The route passes through Wirral Country Park and near the charming village of Parkgate, where you can observe diverse birdlife across the Dee marshland. This loop is a popular choice among local touring cyclists, offering a well-regarded experience.

The trail is notable for its clever use of the former Birkenhead Railway route, now the Wirral Way, providing a unique traffic-free path. Along the way, you can explore historical sites such as Hadlow Road Station, preserved as it was when the railway closed to passengers in 1956. This loop also connects to the broader Wirral Circular Trail and Sustrans National Routes 56 and 568, making it a key part of the region's cycling network.

Embark on The River Dee Round, an easy touring bicycle ride spanning 16.6 miles (26.7 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 193 feet (59 metres), typically completed in about 1 hour and 33 minutes. This largely flat and traffic-free route offers a relaxing experience, perfect for families and cyclists of all abilities. You'll pedal along well-paved paths, enjoying varied scenery from tree-lined sections to open views of the strath. Keep an eye out for local wildlife along the tidal River Dee, and notice historical landmarks like the distinctive blue bridge at Queensferry as you ride.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the starting point for The River Dee Round is often easily accessible by public transport. The route is completely traffic-free, making it a safe choice for families with children. Along the way, you will find convenient spots for refreshments, including pubs, cafes like Nets Cafe, and supermarkets. This ensures you can easily take breaks and refuel during your ride.

The River Dee Round is particularly notable for its family-friendly nature and its connection to National Cycle Network Route 5. It offers unique sights such as the Airbus wing loading dock near Saltney Ferry Bridge and charming animal sculptures carved from trees. The route also provides opportunities to extend your adventure by connecting with other paths like the Chester Millennium Greenway or the Burton Marsh Greenway, which leads to RSPB Burton Mere Wetlands for birdwatching.

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle route that circles Coniston Water, offering a diverse cycling experience. You will cover 18.2 miles (29.3 km) with an elevation gain of 1028 feet (313 metres), typically taking around 1 hour and 53 minutes to complete. The trail combines dedicated cycle paths, quiet minor roads, and some off-road sections, ensuring varied terrain. As you ride, you will catch glimpses of the lake through the trees, framed by the dramatic fells and Coniston Old Man in the distance. This journey provides a rewarding perspective of the Lake District's natural beauty.

Coniston village serves as an ideal starting point for your adventure, offering convenient parking options. Before or after your ride, you can find food shops, cafes, and pubs in the village for refreshments. While much of the route uses quiet roads and cycle paths, be mindful that certain sections on the A593 can be narrow and have faster-moving traffic. Always exercise caution when sharing the road with vehicles.

This circumnavigation offers more than just scenic views; it also passes significant local landmarks. You will cycle past Brantwood House and Gardens, the former residence of the influential writer and artist John Ruskin. Additionally, the route provides views of Wild Cat Island, a location famously featured in Arthur Ransome's

Start your touring cycling journey on the Windermere, Elterwater & Grasmere loop, a moderate route that guides you through the central Lake District. This 23.8-mile (38.2 km) ride involves 1428 feet (435 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 2 hours and 39 minutes to complete. You will cycle past the expansive waters of Lake Windermere, enjoying the varied landscape of wooded sections and open fells. The trail combines traffic-free lakeshore paths with quiet country lanes, offering a diverse cycling experience. Expect to encounter surfaces ranging from paved roads to smooth stone tracks throughout your ride.

Planning your visit, you will find numerous opportunities for refreshment stops in the charming villages along the way. Consider starting early to make the most of the daylight and avoid busier times, especially in popular areas like Ambleside and Grasmere. The route's varied terrain includes undulating stretches and notable climbs, such as the ascent over Red Bank from Grasmere, so be prepared for some effort. While some sections are gentle, the full loop requires a steady pace and good fitness.

This route offers a comprehensive tour of the central Lake District National Park, allowing you to experience its unique character. You will pass through charming villages like Ambleside and Grasmere, which are perfect for a break. The trail also provides views of Rydal Water and Grasmere Lake, complementing the panoramic vistas of Lake Windermere. Look out for historic sites like Wray Castle as you cycle, adding a cultural dimension to your outdoor adventure.

Cycle the easy 18.2-mile Warrington, Runcorn and Widnes Loop, exploring waterways, green spaces, and landmarks like Spike Island.