The best cycling routes around Preston

Preston offers a diverse selection of touring cycling routes. The komoot community has mapped over 15 routes in the area, ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.

The touring cycling routes around Preston are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied scenery, from riverside paths to canal towpaths and ancient woodlands, as well as the well-maintained surfaces.

Yes, Preston has routes suitable for beginners. While many routes are moderate, you can find easier options that stick to flatter terrain like canal towpaths or dedicated cycle paths. For example, sections of the Bibury Bridge – St Mary's Church, Bibury loop from Preston offer gentle gradients through rural landscapes.

Preston is well-known for its circular cycling options. The most prominent is the Preston Guild Wheel, a 21-mile (34 km) loop that encircles the city, offering a mix of urban and rural scenery. Many other routes, such as the Bibury Bridge – Arlington Row, Bibury loop from Baunton, are also designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

Preston's touring cycling routes often pass by beautiful natural features and historical sites. You can explore areas like the River Ribble, various canal systems, and ancient woodlands. Specific highlights include the picturesque Arlington Row, Bibury, the historic St Mary's Church, Bibury, and the tranquil Lake at Cotswold Water Park. Many routes also incorporate sections through parks like Avenham and Miller Parks.

Absolutely. The Preston Guild Wheel is an excellent family-friendly option, being largely off-road and traffic-free. It connects urban areas with the countryside, offering a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages. Many canal towpaths also provide flat, traffic-free surfaces ideal for families.

Many touring cycling routes in Preston, particularly those on public rights of way like canal towpaths and designated cycle paths, are dog-friendly. However, dogs should always be kept under control, preferably on a lead, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock. Always check specific signage for any restrictions.

Yes, Preston's central location makes many cycling routes accessible via public transport. The Preston Guild Wheel, for instance, can be joined at various points around the city, many of which are close to bus stops or train stations. For more detailed information on public transport to the Guild Wheel, you can visit Lancashire.gov.uk.

Parking is available at various points around Preston for accessing cycling routes. For the popular Guild Wheel, official starting points like Avenham Park often have nearby parking facilities. Many other routes that venture into rural areas may have small car parks or roadside parking available. It's advisable to check specific route details for recommended parking spots.

For those seeking longer touring cycling experiences, Preston offers several options. Routes like The Gilbertine Kitchen – St Sampson's Church loop from Duke of Gloucester Barracks extend for over 36 miles (58 km), taking you through varied countryside. The proximity to the Forest of Bowland AONB also provides opportunities for even more extensive and challenging rides on quiet country lanes.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in and around Preston offer opportunities for refreshment stops. The Guild Wheel, for example, passes through areas with cafes and pubs. Additionally, routes that incorporate canal towpaths or pass through villages often have local establishments where you can grab a drink or a bite to eat. For instance, the The Lodge at Lake 12 – Café Cohn loop from Duke of Gloucester Barracks includes a cafe stop.

The best time for touring cycling in Preston is generally from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically milder, with longer daylight hours and less rainfall, making for more comfortable riding conditions. The landscapes are also at their most vibrant, especially in spring with blooming flora and in autumn with changing leaf colors.

Preston's touring cycling routes frequently incorporate sections along its extensive canal systems. The Leeds/Liverpool Canal and the Ribble Link Canal offer flat, traffic-free towpaths that are ideal for leisurely rides. These routes provide a unique perspective on the region's industrial heritage and natural beauty, often connecting to other scenic areas.