The best cycling routes around Trawden Forest
4.4
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3,401
riders
289
rides
Touring cycling routes around Trawden Forest traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, open moorland, and wooded valleys. The area features a network of quiet country roads and dedicated paths, offering varied terrain for touring cyclists. Reservoirs and historic sites are common features along many routes. The region provides a mix of gradients, from gentle ascents to more challenging climbs, suitable for different skill levels.
Best touring cycling routes around Trawden Forest
- The most popular touring cycling route is Widdop…
Last updated: May 8, 2026
4.0
(1)
24
riders
32.4km
02:52
730m
730m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
14.8km
01:10
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
riders
18.5km
01:17
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
31.5km
02:11
560m
560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
18.5km
01:20
380m
390m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful reservoir surrounded by huge rock formations , popular with climbers
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A gorgeous area around black moor with amazing views and the rocks above upper Gorple and Widdop reservoirs are outstanding
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On the narrow grass verge between the road and the footpath in the village of Roughlee stands a memorial to Alice Nutter. Approaching cyclists from a distance might immediately think, "What a lovely statue." But anyone who stops to take a closer look will surely notice the woman's hands bound with a heavy iron chain, as well as the sad expression on her face. Alice Nutter was born around 1560 and, along with several other women, was convicted of witchcraft and executed in 1612.
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She patiently waits here, on the narrow grassy strip between the road and the footpath in the village of Roughlee. From a distance, the slowly approaching hiker might spontaneously think, "What a lovely monument." But up close, the attentive observer will not fail to notice the hands bound with a heavy iron chain, nor the sad expression on this woman's face. Her name is Alice Nutter. She was born around 1560 and in 1612—along with several other women—was convicted of witchcraft and executed.
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Colne Lane in Colne, Lancashire, serves as a gateway to the picturesque East Colne Way, a 5-mile circular walk that begins at the Lakeside Café in Ball Grove Park. This trail meanders through serene riverside meadows and ancient woodlands, offering a tranquil escape into nature. Before setting out, ensure you're equipped with sturdy, waterproof boots and appropriate clothing, as weather conditions can change unexpectedly. It's also advisable to inform someone of your route and allow ample time to complete the walk. For a detailed map and further information, visit the official East Colne Way page. [1] https://www.visitpendle.com/things-to-do/east-colne-way-p927770
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Trawden Forest Community Centre, based in Lancashire, is a community facility run and managed by volunteers.
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The pub is owned by the community and is great place for a refreshing drink and a bite to eat.
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Wycoller Country Park is a mixture of woodland and farmland and has many footpaths leading to local beauty spots which include Bank House and Wycoller Beck.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Trawden Forest?
Trawden Forest offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 290 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy rides to more challenging climbs.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Trawden Forest?
Yes, Trawden Forest has approximately 36 easy touring cycling routes. These routes often feature gentler gradients and quieter paths, making them suitable for beginners or family outings. For a moderate option that explores historic ruins, consider the Wycoller Hall ruins loop from Laneshaw Bridge.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Trawden Forest?
The terrain in Trawden Forest is characterized by rolling hills, open moorland, and wooded valleys. You'll find a mix of quiet country roads and dedicated paths. Routes vary from gentle ascents to more challenging climbs, often passing by reservoirs and historic sites.
Are there challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. Trawden Forest features around 119 difficult touring cycling routes. These often include significant elevation gains and cover longer distances. An example is the challenging Widdop Descent – Widdop Reservoir loop from Colne, which offers scenic reservoir views and substantial climbing.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see along touring cycling routes in Trawden Forest?
Many routes in Trawden Forest pass by interesting natural and historical sites. You might encounter natural monuments like the Pendle Hill summit trig point or the unique The Singing Ringing Tree. Historic ruins, such as those explored on the Wycoller Hall ruins loop, are also common features.
Are there circular touring cycling routes in Trawden Forest?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Trawden Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Widdop Descent – Widdop Reservoir loop from Colne and the Skipton Old Road Descent – Black Lane End loop from Colne.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Trawden Forest?
The touring cycling routes in Trawden Forest are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 150 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, tranquil reservoir areas, and the network of quiet country roads.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Trawden Forest?
While touring cycling is possible year-round, the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) generally offer the most favorable weather conditions for exploring Trawden Forest. During these periods, you can expect milder temperatures and less chance of adverse weather, making for a more enjoyable ride.
Are there touring cycling routes that offer good viewpoints?
Many routes in Trawden Forest provide excellent viewpoints, particularly those that traverse the rolling hills and open moorland. For instance, the Flooded Road to Alkincoats – View of Pendle Hill loop from Laneshaw Bridge offers stunning vistas, including views of the iconic Pendle Hill.
Can I find routes with pub stops or places to eat along the way?
While specific pub stops are not always detailed in route descriptions, many touring cycling routes in Trawden Forest pass through or near villages and towns like Colne and Laneshaw Bridge, where you can often find local pubs, cafes, or shops for refreshments. The View of Briercliffe – The Old Rock Café loop from Colne, for example, starts and ends in Colne, offering options for food and drink.
What are the typical distances and elevations for touring cycling routes in Trawden Forest?
Route distances vary significantly, from shorter loops of around 9 miles (15 km) to longer rides exceeding 20 miles (32 km). Elevation gains also range widely, with easier routes having a few hundred feet of ascent, while difficult routes like the Widdop Descent – Widdop Reservoir loop can feature over 2,300 feet (700 m) of climbing.
Most popular routes around Trawden Forest
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