The best road cycling routes around Anglezarke

Anglezarke offers a diverse landscape for road cycling, characterized by its chain of reservoirs, high moorland, and wooded valleys within the West Pennine Moors. You'll encounter rugged hills and steep-sided valleys, providing varied elevation profiles. The area features a network of quiet roads and well-maintained tracks, making for a scenic and engaging ride.

Yes, Anglezarke has options for various ability levels. While some routes feature significant elevation gain, there are also moderate loops available. For example, the route View of Rivington Reservoir – View of Chorley and the Coast loop from Heath Charnock is a moderate 15.2 miles (24.4 km) path, offering a good option for those looking for a less strenuous ride.

There are over 380 road cycling routes available around Anglezarke on komoot, catering to a wide range of preferences and fitness levels. This includes 116 easy routes, 233 moderate routes, and 37 difficult routes.

Anglezarke's routes offer many scenic viewpoints and landmarks. You can enjoy panoramic views of the reservoirs and moorland. Specific highlights include the Rivington Pike Tower, which offers expansive views, and the Winter Hill Summit and TV Mast, visible from various points across the moors. The area also features picturesque reservoirs like Anglezarke Reservoir, often considered the most scenic.

While many road cycling routes in Anglezarke involve varied terrain and elevation, some quieter roads and well-maintained tracks around the reservoirs can be suitable for families with older children or those comfortable with road cycling. Always check the route's difficulty and elevation profile before setting out to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Anglezarke, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscape, the challenging yet rewarding terrain, and the stunning views of the reservoirs and moorland. The network of quiet roads and well-maintained tracks also contributes to a pleasant riding experience.

While road cycling routes primarily stick to paved surfaces, the Anglezarke region is rich in natural water features. You might find yourself cycling near areas with waterfalls, such as those at Limestone Brook or the Old Russia Stone Bridge and Waterfall. These are often accessible via short detours or visible from the road.

Parking is available at various points around Anglezarke, particularly near the reservoirs and popular starting points for routes. Specific parking areas are often indicated on individual route descriptions on komoot, allowing you to plan your start point conveniently.

Anglezarke is enjoyable for road cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, though it can be busier. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures, potentially icy conditions on shaded roads, and shorter daylight. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, the Anglezarke area has several options for refreshments. The historic Yew Tree Inn near Anglezarke Reservoir is a popular stop for cyclists, offering a traditional country pub experience. There are also cafes and other establishments in nearby villages, particularly around the Rivington Chain of reservoirs, perfect for a break during your ride.

Public transport options to Anglezarke are limited due to its rural nature. However, you can often reach nearby towns like Chorley or Horwich by train or bus, and then cycle from there into the Anglezarke area. Planning your route to incorporate these transport hubs can be a good strategy.

Longer routes, such as the View of Rivington Pike – Lower Rivington Reservoir loop from Chorley, offer extensive and varied views. You'll experience panoramic vistas of Rivington Pike, uninterrupted views across the reservoirs, and a patchwork of moorland, wooded valleys, and distant coastal sights. These routes provide a comprehensive tour of Anglezarke's stunning natural beauty.