4.8
(24)
135
riders
21
rides
Gravel biking around Horwich offers a diverse landscape at the southern edge of the West Pennine Moors in Greater Manchester. The region is characterized by extensive moorland, rolling hills, and scenic reservoirs, providing varied terrain for cycling. Riders can expect challenging climbs and expansive views across the moorland, alongside routes that follow natural water features like Dingle Reservoir. Prominent landmarks such as Winter Hill and Rivington Pike contribute to significant elevation gains on some routes.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
5.0
(2)
13
riders
24.8km
02:00
370m
370m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
33
riders
32.9km
02:15
440m
440m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.7
(7)
28
riders
62.1km
03:10
180m
180m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
13
riders
34.3km
02:08
140m
140m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
8
riders
22.4km
01:21
150m
150m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Ruined replica of Liverpool Castle in Rivington, Chorley
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The Roe Green Loopline is a former 19th-century railway branch line in Salford, Greater Manchester, opened in 1870 by the London and North Western Railway to connect Eccles and Tyldesley with Bolton via Walkden. Originally serving local collieries, it carried passengers until the 1950s and closed in 1969, later becoming a popular 7.2km, traffic-free walking and cycling greenway.
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The path around the reservoir is worthwhile. It's used by many runners and dog walkers. Unfortunately, the reservoir is currently low on water.
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Beautiful photo motif
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Impractical for cyclists with deep mud & fallen trees
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Busy with people around but always a great ride
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There are over 30 gravel bike trails to explore around Horwich, offering a wide range of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has recorded 34 tours in the area.
Horwich offers a diverse range of gravel routes. You'll find 4 easy routes, 27 moderate routes, and 3 difficult routes, catering to beginners, intermediate riders, and those seeking a challenge. Routes can involve significant elevation gains, especially around the West Pennine Moors.
Yes, Horwich has routes suitable for families. Look for trails with lower elevation gain and smoother surfaces. While specific family-friendly routes aren't highlighted as such, the 4 easy routes available would be a good starting point for a less strenuous ride.
For panoramic views, especially around Rivington Pike, consider the View of the Countryside – Rivington Pike loop from Chorley. This moderate route offers expansive vistas across the moorland and is a popular choice for scenic rides.
Many of the gravel routes around Horwich are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Entwistle Reservoir – View of Belmont Reservoir loop from Tockholes and the Roe Green Loopline – The Bridgewater Way loop from Moses Gate.
The Horwich area is rich in natural beauty. You can encounter features like Scotman's Flash, Two Lads' Cairn, and the Noon Hill Bronze Age burial cairn. The region also features several reservoirs, such as Dingle Reservoir, which are often part of scenic routes.
Yes, you can find waterfalls in the vicinity. The Old Russia Stone Bridge and Waterfall is a notable spot, and you might also encounter smaller cascades like those at Waterfalls at Limestone Brook, often found within the natural landscapes of the West Pennine Moors.
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Horwich, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging moorland climbs to scenic reservoir paths, and the expansive views from prominent landmarks like Rivington Pike.
For experienced riders looking for longer distances, the The Bridgewater Way – Scotman's Flash loop from Ince is a substantial option, covering over 62 kilometers. This route offers a mix of landscapes and is categorized as moderate, but its length provides a good challenge.
The West Pennine Moors can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also popular, though trails can be busier. In winter, be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, especially on unpaved sections.
Yes, Dingle Reservoir is a picturesque feature in the Horwich area. A route that specifically highlights this natural water feature is the View of Dingle Reservoir – Meccano Bridge loop from Burnden Park, offering scenic views of the reservoir.


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