The best cycling routes around Ribble Valley

Ribble Valley offers a wide selection of over 270 touring cycling routes. These include 38 easy routes, 120 moderate routes, and 113 difficult routes, catering to all skill levels and preferences.

The Ribble Valley offers diverse terrain, from remote moorland and deep river valleys to pastoral lands. You'll find a network of quiet country lanes, and prominent features like Pendle Hill and Longridge Fell provide varied elevation. Routes can range from gentle riverside paths to challenging climbs with significant elevation gain, especially within the Forest of Bowland AONB.

Yes, Ribble Valley has options suitable for families. For an easier ride, consider routes like Gisburn Forest Bike Trails – The 8 – Swoopy Section loop from Easington, which is 6.2 miles (10 km) long and has an easy difficulty grade. Gisburn Forest also features a 'Gruffalo Trail' which can be fun for younger riders.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle through the stunning Forest of Bowland AONB, often called 'Little Switzerland', or experience the dramatic Trough of Bowland. Other highlights include views of the River Ribble, Hodder, and Lune, and landmarks like Pendle Hill and Longridge Fell. Don't miss the Bowland Knotts for expansive views.

Many of the touring cycling routes in Ribble Valley are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Clitheroe and The Forest of Bowland loop is a challenging 39.7 miles (63.8 km) circular route exploring the expansive Forest of Bowland. Another option is the View of the River Ribble – Brockholes Nature Reserve loop from Longridge, a moderate 29.0 miles (46.7 km) circular path.

The touring cycling routes in Ribble Valley are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 300 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's diverse landscapes, the quiet country lanes, and the stunning views across the Forest of Bowland and fells like Pendle Hill. The variety of routes, from gentle rides to challenging climbs, is also a popular aspect.

Yes, the Ribble Valley is known for its charming villages and bike-friendly infrastructure. Many routes pass through or near villages like Whalley, Waddington, Slaidburn, and Chipping, where you can find cafes and pubs. For instance, the Slaidburn Village – The Cobbled Corner Café loop from St Andrew specifically highlights a popular stop.

The Ribble Valley is enjoyable for touring cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, though routes can be busier. Always check the local weather forecast, as conditions in the moorland areas, especially in the Forest of Bowland, can change quickly.

Absolutely! Beyond the natural beauty, you can explore historic sites and charming villages. Notable attractions include Whalley Abbey and its impressive Viaduct, Clitheroe Castle & Museum, and Stonyhurst College. You might also encounter the Tolkien Oak Tree – River Hodder, believed to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien. For more specific points of interest, check out highlights like Confluence of the Rivers Calder and Ribble or Parlick Fell summit.

While the Ribble Valley is primarily rural, some villages and towns that serve as starting points for routes may have public transport connections. It's advisable to check local bus and train schedules, especially for services that accommodate bicycles, as options can be limited in more remote areas. Planning your route to start or end near a public transport hub like Clitheroe or Whalley can be beneficial.

Many villages and towns in the Ribble Valley, such as Clitheroe, Longridge, Chipping, and Slaidburn, offer public parking facilities. When planning your route, look for designated car parks in these areas. For routes starting in more remote locations, roadside parking might be available, but always ensure you park responsibly and legally, respecting local residents and access points.

Yes, Ribble Valley offers several difficult routes for experienced touring cyclists. The Slaidburn Village – View of Bowland Knotts loop from Chipping is a challenging 53 miles (85.2 km) route with over 1300m of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the View of Bowland Knotts – Slaidburn Village loop from Newton, covering 32.5 miles (52.3 km) with over 1000m of ascent.