The best traffic-free bike rides in Blackburn with Darwen

There are over 50 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes in Blackburn with Darwen, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 13 easy routes, 31 moderate routes, and 12 difficult routes to explore.

You'll experience diverse landscapes, from the rolling hills of the West Pennine Moors offering challenging ascents and panoramic views, to tranquil routes alongside scenic reservoirs like Entwistle Reservoir. Many routes also pass through woodlands such as Sunnyhurst Wood, and you can find flatter, traffic-free sections along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, routes like the Whalley Village Centre – Easington Fell Road loop offer over 100 km of cycling. Another challenging option is the Whalley Viaduct – Whalley Village Centre loop, which covers nearly 100 km with significant elevation.

Many routes offer views of or pass by notable landmarks. You can cycle towards Darwen Tower (Jubilee Tower) for stunning panoramic views. Scenic reservoirs like Entwistle Reservoir and Belmont Reservoir are also frequently encountered. The region's diverse landscape includes the West Pennine Moors and various woodlands.

While many road cycling routes involve some elevation, the Leeds & Liverpool Canal towpath offers extensive traffic-free and generally flatter sections, which are ideal for families or those seeking a more leisurely ride. Witton Country Park also features trails suitable for cycling.

Parking availability varies by route starting point. Many popular areas like Witton Country Park, and locations near reservoirs such as Entwistle, offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for recommended parking spots.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience in Blackburn with Darwen, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse terrain, from challenging climbs in the West Pennine Moors to the peaceful, traffic-free sections, and the stunning panoramic views from elevated points like Darwen Tower.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For example, the Whalley Village Centre – Waddington Village loop offers a moderate 50 km ride. The View from Broadhead Road loop from Darwen is a shorter, moderate option at just under 22 km.

Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions with milder weather and longer daylight hours, ideal for enjoying the panoramic views and varied landscapes. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially wet or icy conditions, especially on higher moorland routes.

While many routes focus on natural landscapes, some pass through or near villages and towns where you can find refreshment stops. For instance, The Strawberry Duck is a highlight that can be found near some routes. It's always a good idea to check the route map on komoot for points of interest like cafes or pubs along your chosen path.

Absolutely. Blackburn with Darwen offers several difficult routes with significant elevation gain. The Trough of Bowland Pass – Jubilee Tower loop is a demanding ride covering nearly 99 km with over 1100 meters of climbing, providing a true test for advanced cyclists.