The best cycling routes around West Lancashire

West Lancashire offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 140 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy rides to more challenging expeditions.

Touring cycling in West Lancashire is unique due to its diverse landscapes. You'll find expansive flat plains and mosslands, particularly between Ormskirk and Southport, ideal for easy cycling. The eastern parts offer a hillier terrain with splendid views over the West Lancashire Plain, providing a different challenge and scenic beauty. The region also features dedicated cycle paths like sections of the Trans Pennine Trail and the Leeds and Liverpool Canal towpath.

The touring cycling routes in West Lancashire are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 800 touring cyclists have explored the area using komoot, often praising the varied terrain and accessible paths.

Yes, West Lancashire has many easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. There are 57 easy routes available, often utilizing flat mosslands and canal towpaths. A great option is the Leeds and Liverpool Canal – Scotman's Flash loop from Parbold, which is an easy 17.6-mile ride along a scenic section of the historic canal.

For those seeking a challenge, the eastern parts of West Lancashire offer hillier terrain. While most routes are moderate, there are 8 difficult routes available. An example of a longer, more challenging route that includes significant elevation is the Lower Rivington Reservoir – Rivington Pike loop from Ormskirk, which covers over 60 miles with substantial climbs.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in West Lancashire are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Mere Lane – The Slipway Bar & Restaurant loop from Burscough Junction is a moderate 23.5-mile circular path exploring the flat mosslands. The Moorhen Cycle Route, a 5-mile circular path from Burscough Wharf, also combines canal sections with quiet country lanes.

West Lancashire's routes often pass by significant natural features. You can cycle near the Martin Mere Wetland Centre, a haven for wetland wildlife, or explore ancient woodlands like Dean Wood in Up Holland, known for its bluebells and small waterfall features. The region's expansive mosslands also offer unique open landscapes.

Absolutely. West Lancashire offers several routes with rewarding viewpoints. The eastern ridges provide splendid views over the West Lancashire Plain. You can find routes that lead to Ashurst Beacon or Parbold Hill Viewpoint. Clieves Hill, west of Ormskirk, also offers fantastic views without requiring a steep climb.

Yes, West Lancashire is dotted with quaint villages, country pubs, and coffee shops that make for pleasant stops during your ride. Routes like the Mere Lane – The Slipway Bar & Restaurant loop from Burscough Junction are named after such establishments, indicating convenient places to refuel. Many routes also pass through market towns like Ormskirk, offering various dining options.

Parking is generally available in the market towns and villages that serve as common starting points for routes, such as Ormskirk or Burscough. Many dedicated cycle paths, like sections of the Trans Pennine Trail, also have designated parking areas nearby. It's advisable to check local council websites for specific parking information for your chosen starting point.

Many touring cycling routes in West Lancashire are accessible by public transport, particularly those starting from towns with train stations like Ormskirk or Burscough Junction. The region's network of paths, including the Leeds and Liverpool Canal towpath, can often be reached from public transport hubs. For detailed information on cycling and public transport, you can consult the West Lancashire Borough Council's cycling page: westlancs.gov.uk/cycling.

Yes, West Lancashire features dedicated traffic-free cycle paths. A significant one is the Trans Pennine Trail (Cheshire Lines Path), a former railway track offering a well-marked, traffic-free route between Maghull and Ainsdale. Sections of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal towpath are also suitable for cycling and provide picturesque, car-free riding, especially around Rufford Marina.