The best traffic-free bike rides around Great Sankey
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Touring cycling around Great Sankey features a network of routes primarily along historic waterways and extensive green spaces. The region is characterized by the flat terrain of the Sankey Canal and Sankey Valley Park, offering accessible paths for cyclists. The River Mersey and other canals contribute to a landscape rich in waterside views and linear parks, providing a consistent, low-elevation cycling experience.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Great Sankey
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Sankey Viaduct (Nine Arches) – Sankey Canal loop from Warrington West, a 17.3 miles (27.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 58 minutes to complete. This route features views of the historic Sankey Viaduct and follows the tranquil Sankey Canal.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Muddy Riverside Trail – The Ferry Tavern loop from Warrington West, an easy 9.9 miles (16.0 km) path. This trail offers riverside scenery and passes by the historic Ferry Tavern, a popular landmark.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Burtonwood Cycle Path – Sankey Canal loop from Warrington West, a 10.7 miles (17.2 km) trail leading through the Sankey Canal area, often completed in about 1 hour 4 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Great Sankey is defined by historic canals, greenways, and sections of the Trans Pennine Trail. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy family rides to moderate excursions.
- The routes in Great Sankey are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 100 reviews. More than 600 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Great Sankey's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Great Sankey
Tips from the Community
In memory of the former council leader and ward councillor for Burtonwood, who passed away in 2019, a new path has been registered and named as ‘Terry O’Neill Way’. The Burtonwood to Omega cycleway is a 1.5km long, brand new tarmac path alongside Clay Lane and Burtonwood Road, between Burtonwood village and Junction 8 of the M62. It consists of a 3.5 metre-wide path with grass verges, new fencing and new lighting along its length. In the south, it links into the existing shared-use path running around the west side of the M62 Junction 8 roundabout and connects with the rest of the Warrington cycling and walking network on Skyline Drive, Burtonwood Road and Charon Way.
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Sankey Bridges is part of the Parish of St Barnabas in Warrington, a unitary authority in the north-west of England. Located on the turnpike road between Warrington, Prescot and Liverpool over the Sankey Brook, which was the boundary of Great Sankey and The County Borough of Warrington, it became home to many industries after the opening of the Sankey Canal, the first wholly artificial canal built in England during the Industrial Revolution.
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Sankey Valley Park is a public park in Warrington, Cheshire. It occupies part of the Sankey Valley, and the main park itself covers over 1½ miles between Sankey Bridges in the south and Callands in the north. The valley follows the course of Sankey Brook and the now disused Sankey Canal. The park is enjoyed by walkers, cyclists and anglers, and the central section of the park is family orientated with children's play features, a maze and lawn areas. Bewsey Old Hall (and the Maltings Public House) sit on the edge of the central section of the park. The Trans Pennine Trail passes around 500 yards (460 m) from the southern tip of the park. Wikipedia
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A decommisioned Power Plant at the banks of the river Mersey. Four cooling towers which are still visible on Google Maps satellite view are already deconstructed, the four others are still standing close to the cycling lane and are visible from far.
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The West Coast Main Railway line crosses the River Mersey at Warrington using the Mersey Viaduct Bridge which is accessible to view from NCR 62 along Eastford Road
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The "Dream" is a 20 metre high sculpture which is located on the former site of the Sutton Manor Coal Colliery in St Helens. It is visible from the M62 between junctions 7 & 8 and was hoped to become a powerful symbol of the North West akin to Anthony Gormley's Angel of the North located in Gateshead.
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The Ferry Tavern (formerly The Ferry Inn) is one of Warrington’s oldest pubs. It has arguably the best setting in the town nestling on its own island between the River Mersey and the Sankey to St Helen’s canal. It is in a unique position situated on the Trans Pennine Trail attracting hikers, ramblers, cyclists, and horse riders as they make their way along the trail. A charming olde worlde inn, The Ferry is light and airy in the summer where customers can take advantage of the views over the river from our large beer garden and welcoming in the winter with a roaring stove fire. Andy and Jade have been licensees here since May 2005 after taking over the business from Jade’s parents Pat and Terry who took over the pub in 1992 after it had been derelict for 2 years following fire damage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many traffic-free touring cycling routes are available in Great Sankey?
There are 14 dedicated traffic-free touring cycling routes around Great Sankey. These routes are designed to offer a peaceful and safe cycling experience away from vehicle traffic, utilizing the area's extensive network of greenways and canal paths.
What is the general difficulty level of these traffic-free routes?
The majority of traffic-free touring cycling routes in Great Sankey are classified as easy. Out of the 14 routes, 12 are easy, making them suitable for most cyclists. There are also 2 moderate routes for those looking for a slightly longer or more challenging ride.
Are there any circular traffic-free cycling routes in Great Sankey?
Yes, many of the routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Sankey Viaduct (Nine Arches) – Sankey Canal loop from Warrington West is a great circular option, offering a scenic tour of the historic Sankey Canal and the impressive viaduct.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these routes?
The traffic-free routes in Great Sankey primarily follow the historic Sankey Canal and Sankey Valley Greenway, meaning you can expect mostly flat or gently undulating terrain. Surfaces often include well-maintained paths, which can be paved or compacted gravel, suitable for touring bicycles. The area's focus on canal paths and greenways ensures a smooth and enjoyable ride.
Are these traffic-free routes suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. With 12 easy routes and generally flat, traffic-free paths, Great Sankey is an excellent destination for family cycling. The Burtonwood Cycle Path – Sankey Canal loop from Warrington West is a good example of a family-friendly route, offering a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages along the canal.
What natural features and landmarks can I see along the routes?
Great Sankey's routes are rich in natural beauty and historical landmarks. You'll cycle alongside the historic Sankey Canal, through Sankey Valley Park, and near the River Mersey. Notable points of interest include the impressive Sankey Viaduct (Nine Arches) and the unique Dream Sculpture. You might also pass by Spike Island Park, known for its wetlands and wildlife.
Are there any places to stop for refreshments, like pubs or cafes, along the traffic-free routes?
Yes, you'll find opportunities for refreshment. The historic Ferry Tavern, uniquely situated between the River Mersey and the Sankey Canal, is a popular stop for cyclists on the Trans Pennine Trail and local loops. Routes like the The Ferry Tavern – Walton Lock loop from Sankey for Penketh specifically incorporate this landmark.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Great Sankey?
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Great Sankey, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, the well-maintained paths along the canals and greenways can be enjoyed year-round, weather permitting, offering different scenic views with each season.
How long are the traffic-free bike trails near Great Sankey?
The lengths of the traffic-free routes vary, catering to different preferences. You can find routes ranging from approximately 16 km, such as the Muddy Riverside Trail – The Ferry Tavern loop from Warrington West, up to around 28 km, like the The Ferry Tavern – Walton Lock loop from Sankey for Penketh. This variety allows you to choose a ride that fits your desired duration.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Great Sankey?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.39 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the scenic views along the historic canals, and the accessibility for all skill levels, especially families. The well-maintained paths and opportunities for pub stops are also frequently highlighted.
Is public transport available to access the traffic-free cycling trails?
Yes, Great Sankey is well-connected by public transport. Many routes are accessible from local train stations like Warrington West or Sankey for Penketh, which are often starting points for tours such as the Dream Sculpture – The Ferry Tavern loop from Sankey for Penketh. This makes it convenient to reach the trails without a car.
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