The best cycling routes in North West England

North West England offers a vast network of touring cycling routes, with over 10,000 routes available on komoot. These routes cater to all abilities, from easy riverside paths to challenging mountain passes.

The region boasts incredibly diverse landscapes. You can cycle through the majestic fells and tranquil lakes of the Lake District, the wild moorlands of the Forest of Bowland, the scenic countryside and canals of the Cheshire Plains, or along the Lancashire Coast. The western fringes of the Peak District also offer spectacular scenery.

Yes, North West England has many routes suitable for beginners. Approximately 3,400 of the routes are rated as easy. For example, The River Dee Round offers a gentle 16.6-mile ride through riverside landscapes. The Cheshire Plains and traffic-free paths like the Middlewood Way also provide excellent options for less experienced cyclists.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Lake District National Park offers demanding climbs like Honister Pass. The route Derwentwater, Buttermere & Honister Pass loop from Keswick is a difficult 22.2-mile trail with significant elevation gain. The Forest of Bowland also features routes with challenging climbs and panoramic views.

Yes, the region is home to several notable long-distance routes. The **Hadrian's Cycleway (National Cycle Route 72)** is an iconic 170-174 mile coast-to-coast route tracing Hadrian's Wall. The **Lakes & Dales Loop** is a 196-mile circular route through two National Parks, and sections of the **Lancashire Cycleway** also offer extensive scenic riding on minor roads.

Absolutely. Many routes pass by stunning natural and historical landmarks. In the Lake District, you can find highlights like Helvellyn Summit, Orrest Head, and Old Man of Coniston summit. Hadrian's Cycleway, for instance, takes you past numerous Roman forts and museums. The region's charming villages and market towns also offer plenty to explore.

Yes, many areas are ideal for family cycling. Delamere Forest offers well-maintained forest roads and trails like the Hunger Hill Trail. Traffic-free paths such as the Middlewood Way, Salt Line, and Biddulph Valley Way, which follow old railway lines, provide flat and safe options for families. Lakeside trails around Derwentwater, Coniston, and Grasmere are also suitable for all ages.

The best time for touring cycling is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. However, conditions can vary, especially in mountainous areas like the Lake District. Always check local forecasts before you set out.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops. Examples include A circumnavigation of Bassenthwaite Water from Keswick, A circumnavigation of Coniston Water from Coniston village, and Windermere, Elterwater & Grasmere loop. These circular routes allow you to start and finish in the same location, often providing diverse scenery along the way.

The touring cycling routes in North West England are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 9,000 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning natural beauty, the variety of terrain, and the extensive network of quiet country lanes and dedicated cycle paths.

Yes, the region offers numerous traffic-free options. Delamere Forest has well-maintained forest roads, and old railway lines have been converted into pleasant paths like the Middlewood Way, Salt Line, and Biddulph Valley Way. Canal towpaths, such as sections of the Leeds-Liverpool Canal and the Bridgewater Canal (e.g., on the Manchester to Pennington Flash loop), also provide excellent car-free cycling.

North West England is known for its charming villages and market towns, many of which are located along popular cycling routes. These often provide opportunities for breaks at cycle-friendly cafes, pubs, and accommodation. The region's strong cycling community and infrastructure ensure that amenities catering to cyclists are readily available.

The Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a fantastic area for touring cycling, offering serene experiences on quiet country lanes. For specific routes and further details, you can consult resources like Bowland by Bike cycle route or explore the broader cycling information available on Visit Lancashire.