The best road cycling routes around Longridge

Longridge offers a diverse range of road cycling routes. You'll find options for various skill levels, from easier rides to more challenging ascents. Out of 119 routes, 33 are considered easy, 83 are moderate, and 3 are difficult, providing something for every cyclist.

Yes, Longridge Fell itself provides varied terrain with opportunities for challenging climbs. For instance, the Llama Field Road – Hay Hill loop from Armadale is a moderate route that includes significant elevation gain, offering rewarding vistas from higher points.

Absolutely. The Ribble Valley, where Longridge is situated, is known for its beautiful scenery and offers routes suitable for less experienced cyclists or those looking for a more relaxed ride. Many of the 33 easy routes available are perfect for beginners.

Longridge Fell offers panoramic views of the Fylde Plain, Pendle Hill, and even the distant Welsh Mountains from its summit. The Forest of Bowland AONB also provides stunning and expansive landscapes. You can find specific viewpoints like Cairnpapple Hill or Climb Through Wind Farm to Climpy along some routes.

Many of the road cycling routes around Longridge are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Railway Track View – Caldercruix Cycleway loop from Armadale and the Black Loch – Quiet Backroad loop from Armadale.

The area boasts several interesting spots. You might pass by the picturesque Hoghton Bottoms Weir and Viaduct, or incorporate a stop at Brockholes Nature Reserve. The former Longridge Train Station, now The Old Station, Longridge, offers a heritage center and café. Charming villages like Chipping and Ribchester are also accessible.

The komoot community highly rates the routes in Longridge, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Cyclists often praise the varied topography of Longridge Fell, the expansive landscapes of the Forest of Bowland AONB, and the scenic Ribble Valley, which together create a diverse and engaging cycling experience.

While specific cafes on every route aren't listed, Longridge itself is a popular starting point with local amenities. The Old Station in Longridge features a café, and charming nearby villages like Chipping and Ribchester offer opportunities for refreshment stops, making it easy to refuel during your ride.

Route durations vary significantly depending on distance and elevation. For example, the Railway Track View – Caldercruix Cycleway loop from Armadale typically takes around 2 hours 8 minutes, while the longer Wind Turbines Near Woolfords – The Appetizing Bakery loop from Armadale can take over 3.5 hours.

Yes, Longridge is ideally situated at the western end of Longridge Fell, placing it within easy reach of the Forest of Bowland AONB and the Ribble Valley. Its location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the diverse landscapes and charming villages of Lancashire, including parts of the Lancashire Cycleway loop.

The Longridge area offers enjoyable cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, especially with the changing foliage. Summer is also popular, though routes can be busier. While winter cycling is possible, be mindful of weather conditions, especially on higher elevations like Longridge Fell.