The best cycling routes around Salford
4.6
(185)
1,551
riders
251
rides
Touring cycling routes around Salford benefit from an extensive network of traffic-free paths, many built on former railway lines and canal towpaths. The landscape is characterized by largely flat terrain, particularly along the Bridgewater Canal and the "looplines," making it accessible for various skill levels. Areas like Chat Moss offer unique natural landscapes with predominantly flat, off-road sections. Urban cycling experiences are available around Salford Quays and MediaCityUK, blending modern cityscapes with waterfront views.
Best touring cycling routes around Salford
…Last updated: April 22, 2026
7
riders
87.6km
05:43
1,060m
1,060m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
79.5km
04:54
590m
590m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(5)
38
riders
43.8km
02:39
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
23
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.0
(1)
21
riders
34.1km
02:36
340m
340m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Rev Cafe lives on in Stow on the Wold, located in Talbot Court.
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This Cycle shop and cafe is now permanently closed
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In the middle of a small green area within the village, a cross rises atop a tall stone shaft. However, as hikers notice upon approach, this is by no means a small sacred monument in the sense of the wayside crosses common in some regions. Rather, this monument, like those found in many villages, is dedicated to the memory of the victims of war and tyranny.
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If we read the legends of St. Nicholas, he is portrayed as an angel on earth, as a helper in times of need, as a savior in many moments. He is glorified, like many other saints. There are no such people today, or maybe there are? Yes, there are still such people today who do good in secret. They too are today the hidden saviors, the helpers in times of need. I meet such people again and again in my work, (...). Even if they would not call themselves St. Nicholas, they are, like the saint, there for other people. They see the need and alleviate it. So "he" still exists today - we don't need Santa Claus. Thank God! (Text: Michael Inden, Diocesan President of the KAB)
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"The tower has a ring of six bells. Abraham I Rudhall of Gloucester cast the second and third bells in 1714. William Taylor of Loughborough cast the fifth and tenor bells in 1846 at the bell foundry he then had in Oxford. Thomas Bond of Burford cast the fourth bell in 1911. The Whitechapel Bell Foundry cast the present tenor bell in 2006. There is also a Sanctus bell that Thomas Bond cast in 1911. In 2001, the Church of England Benefice of Ascott-under-Wychwood, Chadlington and Spelsbury merged with that of Enstone and Heythrop to form the Chase Benefice. The Parsonage was designed by William Wilkinson and built in 1863. It is now Chadlington House." Source: Wikipedia
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"The Church of England parish church of Saint Nicholas was originally Norman. It is extremely likely, however, that a church, probably of timber, stood on the site by the late Anglo-Saxon period at the latest. In the 13th century, Early English Gothic north and south aisles were added, with four-bay arcades linking the aisles with the nave. Both aisles still retain some lancet windows from this period. The bell tower was built early in the 14th century in the Decorated Gothic style. A chapel was added at the east end of the north aisle. The chapel's east and north windows in the Transitional style between Decorated and Perpendicular Gothic date it to the chancel about tchancel about the middle of the 14th century. Later pure Perpendicular Gothic additions include the windows and north door in the north aisle, the present clerestory and nave roof and the chancel arch. In 1870, the Gothic Revival architect Charles Buckeridge completely rebuilt the chancel. St. Nicholas' church is a Grade II listed building." Source: Wikipedia
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If you check times steam train railway goes to Winchcombe and Toddington . They take bikes and give you a head start for a lot of routes I the area. Peter Ross
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Salford?
Salford offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 250 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 21 easy, 140 moderate, and 95 difficult trails.
What types of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Salford?
Touring cycling in Salford features diverse terrain. You'll find extensive traffic-free paths along historic canal towpaths like the Bridgewater Canal, and former railway lines known as "looplines." Areas such as Chat Moss offer unique natural landscapes with predominantly flat, off-road sections. For an urban experience, routes around Salford Quays and MediaCityUK blend modern cityscapes with waterfront views.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Salford?
Yes, Salford is well-suited for beginners and those seeking easier rides. Many routes, particularly along the Bridgewater Canal and the various looplines (like the Roe Green Loopline), are largely flat and traffic-free, offering gentle gradients. There are 21 easy routes available, perfect for leisurely exploration.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Salford?
Yes, Salford offers several circular touring cycling routes. The extensive network of looplines and canal paths naturally lends itself to creating enjoyable circular journeys. For example, you can find loops that incorporate picturesque areas like Worsley Village and Delph along the Bridgewater Way, or explore the modern cityscape around Salford Quays and MediaCityUK.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along touring cycling routes in Salford?
Salford's touring cycling routes offer a mix of natural beauty and historical landmarks. You can explore the historic Bridgewater Canal, traverse the unique peat bog landscapes of Chat Moss, or cycle through green spaces like Worsley Woods and Blackleach Country Park. Notable attractions nearby include the ancient King Stone and Rollright Stones Stone Circle, as well as the impressive Sezincote House.
Are the touring cycling routes in Salford family-friendly?
Many touring cycling routes in Salford are highly family-friendly. The city has invested in traffic-free paths, such as the Bridgewater Way and the loopline network, which are largely flat and offer safe environments for cyclists of all ages. These routes connect to green spaces and attractions like the RHS Garden Bridgewater, making them ideal for family outings.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Salford?
The touring cycling routes in Salford are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 170 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive network of traffic-free paths, the largely flat terrain which makes routes accessible, and the blend of natural landscapes with urban exploration opportunities, particularly around the canals and looplines.
Can I access information about specific traffic-free cycling routes in Salford?
Yes, you can find detailed information about Salford's traffic-free cycling routes. The city council provides resources on its website, including specific details on the Bridgewater Way, the Roe Green Loopline, and the Linnyshaw Loopline, which are popular choices for touring cyclists.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling options in Salford?
Yes, for those seeking longer rides, Salford offers routes that can be combined for extended touring. The Bridgewater Way itself is a 39-mile (65km) leisure route, and the Salford Trail is an 80-kilometer (50-mile) long-distance route passing through Chat Moss. Additionally, routes like The Cotswolds villages loop (87.6 km) and Chipping Norton to Devil's Quoits neolithic stones loop (79.5 km) provide significant distances for experienced touring cyclists.
What is the best way to explore the historic Bridgewater Canal by bike?
The Bridgewater Canal is best explored via the Bridgewater Way, a dedicated leisure route that follows its path. This 39-mile (65km) route is largely flat and traffic-free, making it ideal for touring cyclists. Specific stretches within Salford, from Old Fold Park in Eccles to Barton Swing Aqueduct, are open for cycling and offer scenic views of this historic waterway.
Are there any routes that combine urban exploration with natural scenery?
Absolutely. Cycling around Salford Quays and MediaCityUK provides an engaging urban experience with waterfront views. These areas can serve as starting points for loops that connect to more tranquil paths, allowing riders to transition from a modern cityscape to green spaces and canal towpaths, blending both urban and natural elements into a single ride.
Can I find routes that lead to specific attractions like RHS Garden Bridgewater?
Yes, the loopline network in Salford directly connects to destinations such as the RHS Garden Bridgewater, offering a pleasant cycling journey to this renowned garden. This makes it easy to combine a scenic ride with a visit to a significant local attraction.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes in Salford?
While many routes are flat, Salford also offers more challenging options for experienced touring cyclists. There are 95 difficult routes available, often featuring longer distances and notable elevation changes. For example, the Lower Slaughter Mill – Bourton-on-the-Water loop from Chipping Norton covers 51.7 km with significant elevation gain, providing a good test for endurance.
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