The best cycling routes around Simonswood

Simonswood offers a varied landscape for touring cyclists, characterized by a mix of flat canal paths and gentle rolling countryside. Routes often traverse agricultural land and quiet lanes, providing accessible paths and open views. Elevation changes are generally modest, making it suitable for a range of abilities.

Yes, Simonswood is well-suited for easy touring cycling. There are nearly 100 easy routes available. An example of an easy route that includes gentle ascents to viewpoints is Sunrise at Crank Hill – View from The Crank loop from Moss Plantation (Brown Birches), which is 15.7 miles (25.3 km) long.

While Simonswood is known for its gentle terrain, there are some routes that offer a more moderate challenge, with over 90 moderate routes available. These routes might feature longer distances or slightly more varied elevation. For instance, the Hidden Corner Farm Campsite – Closed Bridge on Canal Path loop from Maghull North is a moderate 24.7 miles (39.8 km) trail.

Route lengths vary, but many popular touring cycling routes in Simonswood range from 15 to 30 miles (24 to 48 km). For example, the Coach Road Entrance – View from The Crank loop from Bickerstaffe is 23.7 miles (38.2 km) and typically takes around 2 hours 15 minutes to complete.

Many routes in Simonswood offer open views across the countryside. Routes that include 'The Crank' in their name, such as Sunrise at Crank Hill – View from The Crank loop from Moss Plantation (Brown Birches), often feature gentle ascents to elevated points providing scenic vistas.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Simonswood are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Mikering Lane – New Way Road, Bickerstaffe loop from Maghull North, which is a 48.5 km (30.1 miles) circular route.

While cycling, you can explore various natural and historical sites. Notable attractions include Carr Mill Dam, a significant lake, and Croxteth Hall and Country Park, a historical estate. Many routes also pass through or near nature reserves like Lunt Meadows Nature Reserve.

The rural landscape of Simonswood is enjoyable throughout the warmer months, typically from spring to autumn. During these seasons, you can expect more favorable weather conditions, making the open views and canal paths particularly pleasant for cycling.

The touring cycling routes in Simonswood are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 180 reviews. Cyclists often praise the accessible paths, open views, and the mix of canal paths and gentle countryside.

Given the prevalence of flat canal paths and gentle rolling countryside with modest elevation changes, many routes in Simonswood are suitable for families. The easier routes, in particular, provide a safe and enjoyable experience for cyclists of varying ages and abilities.

There are over 200 touring cycling routes available in Simonswood, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.

While specific public transport links directly to trailheads can vary, Simonswood is situated in West Lancashire. Cyclists can often access the general area via local bus services or train stations in nearby towns, which may require a short ride to reach the starting points of the routes.

Parking availability can depend on the specific starting point of your chosen route. Many routes begin near villages or rural areas where roadside parking might be an option, or near local amenities that offer parking. It's advisable to check the route details on komoot for specific parking recommendations for each tour.