4.5
(269)
3,530
riders
315
rides
Touring cycling routes around Up Holland traverse a diverse landscape characterized by undulating terrain, ancient woodlands, and tranquil lakes. The area features a mix of open countryside and historic elements, including distinctive cobbled roads with varying gradients. Cyclists can explore routes that wind through natural features like Dean Wood and along canal towpaths. This varied topography provides a range of experiences for touring cyclists.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
3.0
(2)
54
riders
30.5km
02:08
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
35
riders
25.5km
01:51
70m
70m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(3)
17
riders
26.3km
01:32
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
20.2km
01:23
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
riders
85.3km
05:14
650m
650m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Thirsty Duck often serves Gluten Free beer for Coeliacs. Lovely after a walk along the canal on a summers day.
1
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Always good for coffee and cake
6
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This is the top of Crank Hill at Crank Village - it is not the highest point in Merseyside - that is the top of Billinge Hill which is a short distance away. Crank Hill is a nice little climb past Fairfield Hospital - the climb is relatively short but is a consistent ramp which will definitely give your lungs a bit of a workout.
0
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Nothing special, but it was possible to stop for something to eat!
1
1
"Burscough wharf was at the center of trade on the canal, with the Wharf Buildings purpose-built for the horses that pulled barges along the canal. The canal was crucial to Burscough's economy, with much of its employment dependent on the canal and industries along its banks. Burscough Wharf is now a retail and leisure development that has become a focal point for the local community." Source: AI Summary; Various sources
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There are over 300 touring cycling routes around Up Holland, offering a diverse range of experiences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 270 reviews.
Up Holland offers varied terrain for touring cyclists, from undulating landscapes and ancient woodlands to tranquil lakes and open countryside. You'll find a mix of easy canal paths and more challenging routes with significant elevation, including some distinctive cobbled roads with steep gradients.
Yes, Up Holland has over 120 easy touring cycling routes. A great option for a relaxed ride is the Leeds and Liverpool Canal – Leeds and Liverpool Canal loop from Appley Bridge, which follows a scenic canal towpath and is rated as easy.
Many of the touring cycling routes in Up Holland are circular. For instance, the popular Leeds and Liverpool Canal – Wigan Pier loop from Gathurst offers a scenic circular journey along the canal. Another option is the Twin Lakes Velo Café – Eccleston Delph Café loop from Gathurst, which provides a longer circular route with views of local lakes.
Yes, Up Holland's routes often pass by beautiful natural features. Dean Wood, a semi-natural ancient woodland, features small waterfall formations and is known for its bluebells in spring. You can also cycle along the perimeters of lakes like Scotman's Flash and Carr Mill Dam, which offer scenic views and are home to diverse wildlife.
Up Holland offers several historical and cultural attractions. The village itself has ancient origins and features distinctive cobbled roads. You might also encounter the Ancient Parish Church of St. Thomas the Martyr, dating back to 1307. For a combination of history and recreation, Haigh Woodland Park and Haigh Hall provide extensive grounds and dedicated cycling paths around a historic country house.
Yes, the undulating landscape of Up Holland provides several excellent viewpoints. Beacon Country Park, on the slopes of Ashurst Beacon, offers panoramic views across Lancashire. You can find specific viewpoints like Viewpoint Bench in Beacon Country Park and Parbold Hill Viewpoint, which are popular spots for cyclists to take a break and enjoy the scenery.
The touring cycling routes in Up Holland are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Over 3600 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the diverse terrain, from quiet canal paths to challenging climbs, and the beautiful natural surroundings like ancient woodlands and tranquil lakes.
Yes, many touring cyclists enjoy incorporating stops at local cafes and pubs. The Twin Lakes Velo Café – Eccleston Delph Café loop from Gathurst is specifically named for the cafes along its route, making it a great option for those looking to refuel. The region has various amenities where you can find refreshments.
For cyclists seeking a challenge, Up Holland's varied topography includes routes with notable elevation gains. The View of Sparrow Hill – Ashurst Beacon loop from Orrell, for example, features over 300 meters of elevation gain, offering a more demanding experience and rewarding views from higher ground.
Spring is particularly beautiful in Up Holland, especially in areas like Dean Wood, which is adorned with swathes of bluebells, wild garlic, and lesser celandine. The milder weather of spring and early autumn generally offers pleasant conditions for touring cycling, avoiding the heat of summer or the potentially wet and cold conditions of winter.


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