The best cycling routes around St Helens

There are over 120 touring cycling routes in the St Helens area, offering a wide variety of options for exploring the region's canals, green spaces, and industrial heritage. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars.

Yes, St Helens offers many easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. Approximately 60 routes are classified as easy. A great option is the Sankey Canal – Sankey Viaduct (Nine Arches) loop from BrewDog Stadium, which is 14.9 miles (24.0 km) and features views of the historic Sankey Viaduct. Another accessible choice is the Rainford Bypass Cycle Path – Cricketers Arms loop from St Helens Central.

For those seeking longer rides, St Helens has several options. The Sankey Canal – Spike Island Park loop from St Helens Central covers 30.5 miles (49.1 km), following the historic canal. Another substantial route is the View from Crank Road – Ashurst Beacon loop from Thatto Heath, which is 38.6 miles (62.2 km) and includes more elevation.

Many of the touring cycling routes in St Helens are suitable for families, especially those that follow canal towpaths and disused railway lines, which tend to be flatter and traffic-free. Easy routes like the Bottle & Glass Inn – Rainford Bypass Cycle Path loop from Rainford offer a pleasant experience for all ages.

The terrain around St Helens is generally characterized by relatively flat paths, making it ideal for touring cycling. You'll find many routes along historic canals, such as the Sankey Canal, as well as dedicated cycle paths on disused railway lines and through local parklands. There are some gentle undulations, particularly on routes venturing towards areas like Ashurst Beacon.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in St Helens are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Scotman's Flash – Poolstock Canal Lock loop from Newton-le-Willows, which is 26.0 miles (41.8 km), and the Hale Duck Decoy Nature Reserve – View of the River Mersey loop from Rainhill.

St Helens' touring cycling routes offer glimpses of both natural beauty and industrial heritage. You can pass by the iconic Dream Sculpture, enjoy views of Carr Mill Dam, or see the historic Sankey Viaduct (Nine Arches). For a natural highlight, consider visiting Sutton Mill Dam Waterfall.

Yes, many routes in the St Helens area pass by or near local pubs and cafes where you can stop for refreshments. The Bottle & Glass Inn – Rainford Bypass Cycle Path loop from Rainford, for instance, starts and ends near the Bottle & Glass Inn, offering a convenient stop.

The best time for touring cycling in St Helens is generally from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically milder and drier, making for more comfortable riding conditions. The canal paths and greenways are particularly pleasant when the foliage is in full bloom.

Many routes in St Helens are accessible from public transport hubs. Several routes, such as the Sankey Canal – Spike Island Park loop, start from St Helens Central, which is well-connected by train and bus services, making it convenient to reach the starting points without a car.

The touring cycling experience in St Helens is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 170 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's well-maintained canal towpaths, the ease of navigation on disused railway lines, and the opportunity to explore both natural areas and historical industrial landmarks.