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Routes
Road cycling routes
United Kingdom
England
North West England
Lancashire

Burnley

The best traffic-free bike rides around Burnley

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.

Best no…

Last updated: May 19, 2026

4.9

(8)

144

riders

#1.

View of Widdop Reservoir – Widdop Road loop from Burnley Central

46.9km

02:32

870m

870m

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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Moderate

Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Hard
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Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

Moderate
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Popular around Burnley

Traffic-free bike rides around Burnley

Traffic-free bike rides around Burnley

Tips from the Community

Arry
May 3, 2026, Widdop Reservoir

Gorgeous reservoir surrounded by huge rock popular with climbers

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Great at Halloween

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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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Bex
September 29, 2024, The Cabin Café

Excellent food. Not open too late though so get there early to avoid disappointment

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Andy
September 21, 2024, The Cabin Café

Good food and nice place to eat

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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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Frequently Asked Questions

How many no-traffic road cycling routes can I find around Burnley?

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.

What kind of terrain can I expect on no-traffic road cycling routes near Burnley?

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.

Are there any family-friendly no-traffic road cycling options in Burnley?

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.

What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see along these routes?

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.

What do other road cyclists enjoy most about no-traffic cycling in Burnley?

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.

Are there any challenging no-traffic road cycling routes for experienced riders?

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.

When is the best time of year to enjoy no-traffic road cycling around Burnley?

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.

Can I find loop routes for no-traffic road cycling in Burnley?

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.

Are there options for moderate difficulty no-traffic road cycling?

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.

What kind of natural features will I encounter on these routes?

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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