The Trough of Bowland Cycle Route

This route is rated as difficult and is best suited for experienced touring cyclists. It features significant climbing, including long, hard inclines and fast descents. While the road surface is generally good, be prepared for strenuous sections, with some climbs reaching gradients of up to 12-14%.

The route winds through the picturesque Forest of Bowland National Landscape, offering stunning views of lush valleys, heather-covered moors, and quaint villages. You'll encounter rolling hills, dry-stone walls, and panoramic vistas that can extend to the Ribble Valley, Yorkshire Dales, and even Morecambe Bay and the southern Lakes on clear days. The landscape has a unique, almost Scottish feel in places.

Yes, the route passes several interesting spots. You'll go through Dunsop Bridge – Centre of the United Kingdom, which is also home to the UK's 100,000th phone box. Other highlights include the Lake at Wyresdale Park, a scenic Canal Path at Winmarleigh with View of Beacon Fell, and the View of the marina at Bridge 64 Café. The area is also known for its quiet, unspoiled lanes, offering a true escape.

The best time to cycle this route is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from late spring to early autumn. This avoids the harsher conditions of winter and early spring, which can make the challenging climbs and descents more difficult. Always check the local weather forecast before you set out.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle The Trough of Bowland Cycle Route or to access the public rights of way within the Forest of Bowland National Landscape. However, always respect private land and follow the Countryside Code.

Given its 'difficult' rating and significant climbs, this route is generally not recommended for beginners or young families. It requires a good level of fitness and cycling experience. For easier options in the Forest of Bowland, you might look for dedicated family-friendly trails or shorter, flatter sections.

While specific parking areas are not detailed, villages along the route such as Dunsop Bridge and Chipping are good starting points and may offer public parking facilities. It's advisable to check local council websites or visitor information for these villages for up-to-date parking information before your trip.

Yes, you'll find convenient café stops in villages such as Chipping and Dunsop Bridge. These are good places to refuel and take a break during your ride.

Yes, the route overlaps with several other trails. Notably, it covers significant portions of The Trough of Bowland trail itself (45% of the route) and The Chipping Round (29%). You'll also find it intersects with smaller sections of trails like Northern Route To Cockerham and Dolphinholme, Oakenclough and Harrisend Fell, and the Lancaster Canal towpath.

While the route primarily uses public roads and lanes, which are generally accessible, specific rules for dogs on cycling routes can vary. If you plan to bring a dog, ensure it is well-behaved, on a leash, and that you clean up after it. Be mindful of livestock in rural areas. It's always best to check local regulations for any specific restrictions in the Forest of Bowland National Landscape.

The Trough of Bowland Cycle Route is approximately 63.2 kilometers (39.3 miles) long. For an experienced touring cyclist, it typically takes around 4 hours and 3 minutes to complete, not including stops.