The best cycling routes around Lea
4.5
(229)
2,762
riders
294
rides
Touring cycling around Lea, Lancashire, offers routes through the flat plains and gentle hills of the region, often following canal towpaths and quiet country lanes. The landscape features agricultural fields, small villages, and sections alongside waterways like the River Ribble and local canals. Routes typically have minimal elevation gain, making them suitable for various fitness levels.
Best touring cycling routes around Lea
- The most popular touring cycling route is Edith Rigby Way Underpass – Lytham Windmill loop from Lea,…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.5
(8)
88
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
58
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.9
(8)
41
riders
42.6km
02:29
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
28
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
36.6km
02:11
130m
130m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
first trip on an electric bike, I'm disabled with paralysis of left arm and was slightly apprehensive not just about my disability but the fact I hadn't owned or ridden a push bike in over 40 years. what a rush this was, apart from a small part that was more of a downhill rough path with 4 barriers with which I decided to walk down, nice and very scenic route and totally enjoyed ever part of it
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Non existent drainage, susceptible to flooding. Visited after a night of rain and it was impassable (unless you're a triathlete). Nearby public footpath (to a good quality canal path) makes a reasonable diversion if you're ok with muddy farm fields.
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Tip5 Alternative Start Points with Parking for the 4 Tours Tour1 The Marina Carpark at Preston Marina The Marina Carpark Position is: 53.761540,-2.738572 Either: Paste the above line into the Google Maps app "Search here" box and then search - click the magnifying glass icon. Or: open your web browser and search for Google Maps 53.761540,-2.738572 Ashton Park Car Parks Link: Ashton Park Highlight https://www.komoot.com/highlight/5137829 Highlight7 on the Tour1 map
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Tip4 Part (a) below explains the use of a split-screen using 2 web browsers. In Part (b), a practical example, you can use either the single web browser or the 2 web browsers method. (a) How To View In Split-Screen on Windows Using Two Web Browsers - example Microsoft Edge and Chrome. This method is similar to and slightly easier than the method in Tip3, part b). Open this highlight in both web browsers on the Windows PC. Their icons will be visible on the Windows taskbar. Then display one browser on the left side of the screen and one on the right. Open this highlight in both web browsers on the Windows PC. Their icons will be visible on the Windows taskbar. Then display one browser on the left side of the screen and one on the right. (b) Practical Use of a Split Screen Use a split screen to practise zooming into and out of a photo in a slide show. Create a split screen on an Android phone. On one half display the instructions in Tip1 on how to Enlarge a Photo in a Slideshow. Use e.g. a Chrome or Firefox browser on the other half to open the slideshow and display photo3 in the Chrome or Firefox browser. Then practise zooming in and out of photo3. Similarly, using a Windows PC and Photo3 practise the Windows PC instructions on how to zoom-in and out.
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Tip3 How To Split-Screen The aim is, for example, to view relevant Tips or Comments alongside a photo or map. Photo4 shows a split-screen (from Tour1) on an Android phone. View photos or the route map on one half and the description on the other half of the screen. Scroll the 2 halves independently to compare a photo with e.g. a description in the Tips or Comments. If using a tablet or mobile, view the description in the website and the photo in the Komoot app - easier to pinch-zoom to see different parts of the photo. Instructions for (a) Android phone (b) Windows PC/Laptop For an iPhone search online for "Harris iPhone split screen" (a) Android Phone Check online for your Android phone. Not all models support split screen. Tap below to start a video - how to use split-screen. On a mobile, view in landscape. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuiKgagO71Y (b) Windows PC/Laptop Easy in Windows 10/11. You can open the same Highlight (or Tour) using 2 web browsers, such as Microsoft Edge and Chrome, one on the left and one on the right of the screen. Or, you can use a single web browser displayed in 2 windows on the left and the right. Use these instructions to practice the technique. The first instructions below use a single web browser, e.g. Microsoft Edge. Using two web browsers is a little easier - see Tip4. 1) On your Windows PC/laptop, maximise the window if not already full-screen. Copy this highlight's Komoot web address. You need to paste it - see below. 2) Opposite-click this browser's tab on the Windows taskbar. That means click the other mouse button. Then click 'Open new window'. When opened, maximise it, paste and open the web address in the new window and scroll to these instructions so that you can continue to follow them. 3) Press and hold the Windows key on the keyboard and press the left arrow key. The active window moves to the left of the split-screen. 4) You should now see the right-hand half of the first window. Click that window to display it 'on top'. These instructions should still be visible in that window. Check that it's full screen. Press and hold the Windows key again and press the right arrow key. 5) The two windows should now display side-by-side. Scroll one window to display the 1st photo and open the slideshow. Scroll the other for the photo descriptions in the Tips. Then display a photo in one half and a corresponding description in the other.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when touring cycling around Lea?
Touring cycling around Lea, Lancashire, primarily features flat plains and gentle hills. Routes often follow canal towpaths and quiet country lanes, passing through agricultural fields, small villages, and alongside waterways like the River Ribble and local canals. The elevation gain is generally minimal, making it suitable for various fitness levels.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Lea?
Yes, Lea offers several easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the Ribble Steam Railway – Guild Wheel Cycle Lane loop from Lea is an easy 17.6-mile (28.3 km) path that follows the Guild Wheel cycle network. Overall, 10 out of the 16 available routes are rated as easy.
Can I find routes that are more challenging for advanced cyclists?
While Lea is known for its generally flat terrain, there are routes that offer a bit more distance and moderate challenge. For example, the Cartford Bridge – The Plough, Galgate loop from Lea is a moderate 36.8-mile (59.1 km) route, providing a longer ride for those seeking to extend their cycling adventure. There is also one difficult route available for those looking for a significant challenge.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Lea?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Lea are designed as loops. Popular circular routes include the Edith Rigby Way Underpass – Lytham Windmill loop from Lea, the Ribble Steam Railway – Guild Wheel Cycle Lane loop from Lea, and the Canal Route – Roots Café loop from Lea, all starting and ending near Lea.
What interesting places or landmarks can I see along the cycling routes?
Along the cycling routes, you can explore various points of interest. Highlights include the Brockholes Nature Reserve, the Ribble Steam Railway, and the Ribble Link Staircase Locks and Holding Basin. You might also pass by Haslam Park Lake and Savick Brook Bridges, and the Miller Park Fountain.
Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the routes?
Yes, some routes incorporate stops for refreshments. For example, the Canal Route – Roots Café loop from Lea specifically mentions Roots Café. You can also find the Twin Lakes Velo Café nearby, which is a popular spot for cyclists.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Lea?
The touring cycling routes in Lea are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from nearly 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet country lanes, scenic canal towpaths, and the generally flat and accessible nature of the routes, making them enjoyable for a wide range of abilities.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Lea?
Given the region's characteristics of flat plains and canal towpaths, touring cycling in Lea is generally pleasant during spring, summer, and early autumn. These seasons offer milder weather and better trail conditions. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions may be wetter and colder, especially on unpaved towpath sections.
Are the cycling routes in Lea suitable for families?
Yes, many of the routes in Lea, particularly the easy and moderate ones with minimal elevation gain and sections along canal towpaths or dedicated cycle lanes like the Guild Wheel, are well-suited for families. The flat terrain and quiet country lanes provide a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists of all ages.
How many touring cycling routes are available around Lea?
There are 16 touring cycling routes available around Lea, offering a variety of distances and difficulties to explore the region's landscapes.
Can I find routes that pass by nature reserves or parks?
Absolutely. Several routes will take you near or through natural areas. The Brockholes Nature Reserve and Haslam Park Nature Reserve are notable highlights that can be incorporated into your rides, offering opportunities to enjoy local wildlife and green spaces.
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