The best road cycling routes around Preston

There are over 200 road cycling routes around Preston, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a diverse range, from leisurely rides through parks to challenging ascents in the surrounding countryside.

Yes, Preston offers nearly 100 easy road cycling routes. Many parks like Moor Park and Haslam Park provide gentle paths. For a slightly longer, easy ride, consider the Apex Cycleworks Café – The Village Green loop from Ashton Community Science College, which covers about 41 km with minimal elevation.

For experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge, the region offers routes with significant climbs. The Pendle Hill & the Forest of Bowland loop from Preston is a difficult 95 km route with over 1100 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Hodder Bridge – Slaidburn War Memorial loop from Preston, which is over 113 km long and also features substantial climbing.

The Preston Guild Wheel is a prominent 34 km circular route that encircles the city, offering a mix of urban and rural scenery. While largely off-road and traffic-free, it is generally suitable for road bikes, though some sections might be unpaved. It passes through areas like Preston Docklands, Avenham and Miller Parks, and Brockholes Nature Reserve. You can find more information about the Guild Wheel on the Lancashire County Council website.

Absolutely. Preston's proximity to the coast allows for scenic rides with sea views. The Blackpool Tower & Irish Sea views loop from Preston is a popular 68 km route offering expansive vistas towards the Irish Sea. Another excellent option is the Lytham Windmill – Lytham Seafront Promenade loop from Preston, which takes you through coastal areas to Lytham.

Many routes in Preston pass by notable attractions. The Guild Wheel, for instance, takes you past Brockholes Nature Reserve and through Miller Park. You can also explore the Haslam Park Nature Reserve or see the unique Ribble Link Staircase Locks on various routes.

While many road cycling routes are on public roads, several parks and dedicated paths offer safer, family-friendly environments. Moor Park and Haslam Park have numerous cycling paths. The Guild Wheel, being largely traffic-free, also provides sections suitable for families, though its full length might be challenging for younger riders. Always check route details for suitability.

Many routes in and around Preston pass through villages or near parks with cafes. Moor Park has a café, and Brockholes Nature Reserve features a floating visitor village with cafes. For routes venturing into the Forest of Bowland, picturesque villages like Chipping are known for their cycling-friendly cafes. Always plan your stops in advance.

Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Preston, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures, potential rain, and shorter days. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.

Preston is well-connected by public transport, with many routes starting near the city center or accessible by bus. Numerous parks and trailheads offer car parking facilities, especially for popular routes like the Guild Wheel. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the starting point for available parking or public transport links.

The road cycling routes around Preston are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscape, from scenic coastal paths to challenging climbs in the Forest of Bowland, and the variety of options for different abilities.

Yes, for those seeking more challenging and scenic rides, several routes venture into the nearby Forest of Bowland, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Pendle Hill & the Forest of Bowland loop from Preston is a prime example, offering quiet country lanes and breathtaking views. Another option is the Trough of Bowland Viewpoint – Hodder Bridge loop from Broughton.

Certainly. If you're looking for substantial climbs, the areas surrounding Preston, particularly towards the Forest of Bowland and Beacon Fell, provide excellent opportunities. Routes like the Pendle Hill & the Forest of Bowland loop from Preston and the Hodder Bridge – Slaidburn War Memorial loop from Preston feature over 1000 meters of elevation gain, offering a true test of endurance.