The best traffic-free bike rides around Oldham

Oldham offers a diverse selection of touring cycling routes designed to be traffic-free. There are over 25 such routes available, catering to various skill levels and preferences. You'll find a good mix, with 13 easy routes, 8 moderate, and 4 more challenging options.

Yes, Oldham has several easy no-traffic touring routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. For example, the Rochdale Canal Path – Rochdale Canal Path loop from Moston is an easy 17.5 km route with minimal elevation gain, ideal for a gentle introduction to touring cycling in the area.

The canal towpaths around Oldham offer excellent traffic-free cycling. The Rochdale Canal and Ashton Canal are popular choices. A great option is the Ashton Canal – Peak Forest Canal loop from Moston, which provides a moderate 31 km ride along scenic waterways.

The terrain on Oldham's no-traffic routes varies. Canal towpaths, like those along the Rochdale and Huddersfield Narrow Canals, are generally flat and well-surfaced. Other routes, particularly those venturing towards the Peak District fringes, can include more varied surfaces and significant climbs, offering impressive vistas. For instance, the Woodhead Reservoir – Standedge Tunnel loop from Greenfield is a challenging route with over 1300m of elevation gain.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring routes in Oldham are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Portland Basin – Marple Aqueduct loop from Moston, a moderate 44.6 km route that offers a great circular experience.

Oldham's routes often pass by stunning natural features. You might encounter reservoirs, such as Dovestone Reservoir, and even waterfalls like Birchen Clough Waterfall. The region's diverse landscapes, including parts of the Peak District, offer elevated sections with impressive views.

Absolutely. Many routes offer scenic viewpoints and historical landmarks. You could discover the striking rock formation of The Trinnacle or the Pots and Pans War Memorial, which provides panoramic views. The Standedge Tunnel – View of Diggle loop from Saddleworth is a moderate route that includes a view of Diggle, a historic canal village.

Many of the easy and moderate no-traffic routes, particularly those along canal towpaths, are well-suited for families. Their flat terrain and absence of vehicle traffic make them safer and more enjoyable for cyclists of all ages. Always check the route details for specific difficulty and length to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.

Generally, dogs are welcome on most public footpaths and bridleways, which often form part of these traffic-free routes, provided they are kept under control, preferably on a lead, especially around livestock or other path users. Canal towpaths are usually dog-friendly. Always be mindful of other cyclists, walkers, and wildlife. Specific restrictions might apply in certain nature reserves or private land sections, so it's always best to check local signage.

Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for cycling in Oldham, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, the region's natural beauty can be enjoyed year-round. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, and even winter cycling can be rewarding on well-maintained paths, though some higher elevation routes might be more exposed to the elements. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Oldham, with an average score of 4.36 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from tranquil canal towpaths to challenging climbs with rewarding views. The opportunity to explore natural monuments and enjoy traffic-free sections is frequently highlighted as a major draw.