The best traffic-free bike rides around Wigan

There are over 40 dedicated traffic-free road cycling routes around Wigan, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 11 easy routes, 28 moderate options, and 1 challenging route for those seeking a greater test.

Yes, Wigan offers several family-friendly options. The Three Sisters Recreation Area and routes around Turners Flash and Amberswood Lake provide safe, traffic-free environments. You can also explore sections of the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, which are generally flat and suitable for all ages, or the Eyes Lane Bridge loop from Appley Bridge which offers a moderate distance on quiet roads.

Many routes offer scenic views and pass by natural attractions. The Wigan Hills and History Tour, for example, ascends to Ashurst Beacon, providing extensive views that can stretch to North Wales on a clear day. You can also cycle through the Wigan Flashes Local Nature Reserve, known for its tranquil waters and diverse wildlife, or visit Pennington Flash, a popular spot for leisurely rides.

Absolutely. Wigan's industrial heritage is visible along many routes. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal, for instance, offers historical points of interest like Wigan Pier. The Haigh Hall Country House and Gardens is another notable historical estate that serves as a pleasant stop on routes like the Wigan Hills and History Tour.

The Standish Mineral Line, known locally as "The Line," is a dedicated 3-meter-wide, illuminated, multi-user route that is entirely traffic-free. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal also provides extensive traffic-free paths, offering a unique waterside cycling experience. Additionally, the Bridgewater Way and NCN Route 55 offer further traffic-free sections.

Yes, many of the traffic-free routes in Wigan are designed as loops or can be combined to form circular journeys. For example, the Green Fields Road – Lymm Dam loop from Walkden offers a moderate circular ride. Exploring areas like the Wigan Flashes and Pennington Flash often involves circular paths around the lakes and woodlands.

The komoot community rates cycling in Wigan highly, with an average score of 4.6 stars from 66 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscape, from challenging hills to tranquil canal paths, and the growing network of cycling-friendly infrastructure that makes exploring the region enjoyable and safe.

Yes, Wigan's cycling infrastructure is increasingly integrated with national routes. The Wigan Hills and History Tour, for instance, links with National Route 55. The Pier to Pier Cycle Route (Sustrans National Route 562) also connects Southport to Wigan, utilizing relatively flat country lanes and traffic-free sections along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

Wigan Council is actively investing in making cycling safer and more attractive. You can find more information on dedicated cycle and pedestrian facilities, new cycle crossings, and plans to integrate local cycling networks with broader national and regional routes on the official Wigan Council website. For details on cycling initiatives, visit wigan.gov.uk/Cycling and wigan.gov.uk/Cycle-improvement-plans.

The Carbon Trail is a 32km route starting at Wigan Train Station and extending to Warrington Train Station, passing through the Wigan Flashes. This route combines the natural beauty of the flashes with a nod to the area's industrial past. Another option is the View from Clieves Hill loop from Upholland, which offers both scenic views and a connection to the canal's history.

While this guide focuses on no-traffic routes, some options incorporate gentle climbs or access points to hillier terrain. The hills to the north of Wigan and Bolton provide more challenging rides on well-maintained roads. For a route with notable elevation, consider the Green's Lane Canal Crossing – Hunters Hill Climb loop from Appley Bridge, which features significant elevation gain.