The best gravel rides around Preston

There are several gravel bike routes around Preston, offering diverse experiences from easy canal towpaths to more challenging, longer loops. komoot currently lists 4 distinct gravel tours in the area, with many more possibilities to explore the region's varied terrain.

Preston's gravel trails feature a mix of surfaces. You'll find smooth fire roads, canal towpaths, riverside meadows, and sections with loose-packed gravel and rocks, especially in areas like the Forest of Bowland. Routes often combine paved sections with unpaved trails, providing a varied riding experience.

Yes, Preston offers easy gravel routes perfect for beginners or family outings. A great option is the Lancaster Canal Towpath – Haslam Park Nature Reserve loop from Preston, which is an easy 24.4 km path following the canal and passing through a nature reserve. Another easy option is the Top Lock, Wheelton – Withnell Canal Towpath Access loop from Cherry Tree, covering 21.3 km.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Eyes Lane Metal Bridge – Leeds and Liverpool Canal loop from Leyland is a difficult 104.4 km trail with significant elevation gain, traversing varied terrain including sections along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. The Forest of Bowland, accessible from Preston, also offers tough routes like Salter Fell, known for its long uphill drags and rocky parts.

Many routes incorporate Preston's green spaces and natural beauty. You might pass through areas like Haslam Park Nature Reserve, or along the Ribble Link Staircase Locks and Holding Basin. The wider region also offers attractions like Brockholes Nature Reserve and the scenic Ribble Valley.

Yes, many of the gravel routes around Preston are designed as loops. For example, the Lancaster Canal Towpath – Haslam Park Nature Reserve loop from Preston and the Roddlesworth Reservoirs – Withnell Canal Towpath Access loop from Buckshaw Parkway are both popular circular options.

The gravel routes in Preston are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 5 reviews. Riders often appreciate the diverse landscapes, from urban green spaces to rural river corridors, and the variety of terrain that caters to different skill levels.

Absolutely. Canal towpaths are a defining feature of gravel biking around Preston. Routes like the Lancaster Canal Towpath – Haslam Park Nature Reserve loop from Preston and the Roddlesworth Reservoirs – Withnell Canal Towpath Access loop from Buckshaw Parkway prominently feature canal sections, offering relatively flat and scenic riding.

Preston serves as an excellent gateway to the Forest of Bowland, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This region offers challenging and scenic gravel routes, often mixing paved sections with unpaved trails. While specific komoot tours starting directly from Preston into the deepest parts of Bowland might require a short drive, the area is a prime destination for more rugged gravel adventures.

For general information on cycling and outdoor activities in the area, you can visit the official Preston tourism website. They offer resources on various routes and attractions. You can find more details at visitpreston.com/article/3414/Cycling-in-Preston.

Yes, several nature reserves are accessible. The Lancaster Canal Towpath – Haslam Park Nature Reserve loop from Preston takes you directly through Haslam Park Nature Reserve. Other notable reserves in the wider Preston area include Fishwick Local Nature Reserve and Grange Valley Nature Reserve, which offer varied habitats and wildlife viewing opportunities.

The Guild Wheel is a 21-mile walking and cycling route that encircles Preston, linking urban areas with the surrounding countryside and the River Ribble corridor. It traverses diverse landscapes including riverside meadows, historic parks, and ancient woodland. While primarily a paved route, its connection to varied terrain makes it a good starting point or addition to a gravel ride, especially for exploring the city's green spaces.