4.6
(181)
10,898
riders
55
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around Burnley offer a diverse landscape for cyclists, situated on the edge of the Pennines. The region features rolling hills, expansive moorlands, and picturesque river valleys, providing varied topography. Cyclists can explore quiet lanes through areas like the West Pennine Moors and the Forest of Bowland, or utilize the historic Leeds & Liverpool Canal for flatter paths. Several reservoirs, including Widdop Reservoir and Hurstwood Reservoir, also serve as scenic focal points for routes.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
4.9
(8)
144
riders
46.9km
02:32
870m
870m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
31
riders
139km
07:07
1,840m
1,840m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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3.0
(2)
23
riders
36.9km
02:02
590m
590m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(1)
18
riders
30.1km
01:47
450m
450m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
16
riders
27.2km
01:24
400m
400m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Burnley
Lovely place, easy to park there. Also quite good place to finish the hike as plenty of places to get food and drinks.
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Brutal climb, but views from the top well worth the struggle..
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Excellent food. Not open too late though so get there early to avoid disappointment
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great place for pint+ food,with great views of river Ribble+ bridge from the riverside beer garden
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Fantastic climbs and decent in this area. Views are absolutely stunning
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Komoot offers over 60 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Burnley. These routes cater to various skill levels, with a good mix of easy, moderate, and challenging options to explore the region's diverse landscapes.
The no-traffic road cycling routes around Burnley offer a varied experience. You'll find scenic rolling hills, expansive moorlands, and picturesque river valleys. Some routes, like the View of Widdop Reservoir loop, provide stunning reservoir views and varied terrain. The region's proximity to the Pennines means you can expect some challenging climbs and rewarding descents.
Yes, Burnley offers family-friendly options, particularly along the historic Leeds & Liverpool Canal, which provides gentle, traffic-free paths. While specific family routes are not listed in detail here, the general area supports leisurely rides suitable for touring cyclists and families. Look for routes with lower elevation gain and shorter distances.
Many routes pass by or offer views of interesting landmarks. You might encounter the unique Singing Ringing Tree on Crown Point, offering panoramic views. Reservoirs like Hurstwood Reservoir and Cant Clough Reservoir are also scenic focal points. Additionally, Towneley Hall and Park offers cycling opportunities within its grounds and serves as a starting point for some rides.
The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic road cycling experience in Burnley, with an average score of 4.98 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet lanes, breathtaking views of the Pennines and Forest of Bowland, and the diverse topography that caters to different cycling abilities.
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a greater test, routes like the Kilnsey Crag – Nick of Pendle loop from Hapton offer significant elevation gain and longer distances, pushing into the challenging category. The iconic Pendle Hill area also provides more demanding terrains.
Spring, summer, and early autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling around Burnley. The weather is milder, and the landscapes are vibrant. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures, potential rain, and shorter daylight hours, especially on exposed moorland sections.
Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes around Burnley are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Descent Into Sabden loop from Padiham or the Long Causeway loop from Turf Moor, providing convenient circular journeys through the scenic countryside.
Yes, the majority of no-traffic road cycling routes in Burnley are classified as moderate, with 33 out of 60 routes falling into this category. These routes offer a good balance of distance and elevation, such as the Barley – Downham Village loop from Padiham, providing an engaging ride without being overly strenuous.
You'll be immersed in the natural beauty of the region. Expect to cycle through areas characterized by rolling hills, expansive moorlands, and picturesque river valleys. The routes often provide views of the Pennines, with connections to the West Pennine Moors and the Forest of Bowland, known for their outstanding natural beauty.


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