The best traffic-free bike rides around St Helens

St Helens offers a wide selection of nearly 250 no-traffic touring cycling routes. Over 150 of these are rated as easy, making the area very accessible for various skill levels. You'll find routes ranging from short, leisurely rides to longer, more challenging tours.

The no-traffic routes in St Helens primarily follow canal towpaths, disused railway lines, and dedicated cycle paths, ensuring a generally flat or gently undulating terrain. Areas like the Sankey Valley Park and along the Sankey Canal offer smooth, well-maintained surfaces suitable for touring bikes. Some routes might include short sections on quieter country lanes, but the focus is on minimizing traffic exposure.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes are ideal for families. The flat, well-surfaced paths along the Sankey Canal are particularly suitable. An excellent option is the Sankey Canal – Sankey Viaduct (Nine Arches) loop from BrewDog Stadium, which is rated easy and offers a pleasant, car-free experience. The region's focus on dedicated cycle infrastructure makes it safe for cyclists of all ages.

Many of the no-traffic routes, especially those along canal towpaths and in parks like Sankey Valley Park, are dog-friendly. Dogs should generally be kept on a lead, particularly in busier areas or near wildlife. Always ensure your dog is comfortable with cycling speeds and other users on the path. Please check specific route details for any local restrictions.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions in St Helens, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be excellent, though paths may be busier. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for colder, wetter weather and potentially muddy sections on unpaved paths. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.

Yes, St Helens offers several excellent circular no-traffic touring routes. A popular moderate option is the Sankey Canal – Spike Island Park loop from St Helens Central, which provides a substantial ride without repeating sections. Another easy circular route is The Ferry Tavern – The Ferry Tavern loop from Penketh, perfect for a shorter, scenic ride.

The routes around St Helens offer a mix of natural beauty and industrial heritage. You can visit Carr Mill Dam, the largest body of water in Merseyside, or admire the impressive Dream Sculpture. For a natural spectacle, seek out the Sutton Mill Dam Waterfall. The historic Sankey Canal itself is a significant feature, offering glimpses into the region's past.

St Helens is well-connected by public transport. Merseytravel provides comprehensive information on local bus and train services. Notably, you can take bikes on all trains within Merseyside, making it convenient to reach starting points for longer touring adventures. For detailed timetables and route planning, visit the Merseytravel website.

Yes, many routes pass near towns and villages where you can find cafes, pubs, and shops. For example, the Bottle & Glass Inn is a notable pub that might be accessible from some routes. The Sankey Valley Park also features picnic areas. It's always a good idea to carry some snacks and water, especially on longer tours, as amenities might not be directly on the car-free paths.

The komoot community rates the touring cycling routes in St Helens highly, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the extensive network of traffic-free paths, the peaceful canal-side riding, and the ease of access to natural spaces like Sankey Valley Park. The variety of routes, from easy family rides to longer tours, is also a common highlight.

While many routes are day trips, St Helens' connectivity to the Trans Pennine Trail opens up possibilities for longer, multi-day no-traffic touring. The Trans Pennine Trail is a long-distance route suitable for cycling, extending touring possibilities significantly beyond the immediate St Helens area. You could plan a multi-day trip by linking up with this national trail.

Many of the popular starting points for no-traffic routes, such as those near Sankey Valley Park or specific trailheads, offer dedicated car parking facilities. For instance, Sankey Valley Park itself includes car parking. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for recommended parking locations before you set off.