Best Road Bike Cycle Routes in the North West
Home to some of the best routes in England, the North West is a treasure trove for rugged hilly routes and spectacular coastline rides that will blow your mind. With so many opportunities to explore this amazing part of England, we’ve compiled a list of the best routes for you to take:
The Forest of Bowland
Bowland Forest is a beautiful and remote area of countryside located in the heart of Lancashire. The famous 44-mile route is a circular route that takes you through some of the best countryside views that the area has to offer. Although challenging, this route offers intrepid explorers steep climbs, rocky descents and a host of traditional pubs for you to stop at along the way.
The Wirral Peninsula
This beautiful stretch of coastline is conveniently located between both Liverpool and Chester and boasts 38 miles of woodland and cliff views. Relatively flat, this route is great for beginners as well as seasoned professionals. On this route, you’ll also find Port Sunlight, a stunning village known for its architecture and rolling hilly parks.
The Lake District
There’s a reason why this part of the UK is the most popular destination for cyclists both in the North West and other regions. It’s the perfect place for flat riding as well as more steep and hilly routes, and is home to some of the most highly rated pubs for you to visit too! The most popular route in this region is the 63-mile route from Ambleside to Keswick, which will give you views of lakes, rolling hills and rocky mountains.
How to prep before a day of cycling
Before heading out on any of the routes we’ve covered today, it’s important to ensure that you have the best and safe ride you can. Whether it’s checking over your bike before a long ride ahead, or dressing properly for the weather and route, we have you covered with these handy tips:
- Give your bike a once-over: This includes checking your tyres for punctures or their air pressure, and checking your gears to ensure they’re working swiftly and securely. It’s also a great idea to check your brakes too, as any issues that arise on your route from your brakes can lead to disaster!
- Wear the appropriate clothing: Assessing the route and the weather before heading out should be a priority too. It can help you choose the right clothing to avoid getting too wet or hot! You should also make sure you have protective gear such as a helmet and padding.
- Pack the essentials: Some essentials we recommend taking include a water bottle, a map or GPS, a first aid kit and any snacks that can help you keep your energy levels high.
