The best cycling routes around Preston

Preston offers a diverse range of touring cycling routes, blending urban and rural scenery. You'll find extensive traffic-free paths along the River Ribble and the Lancaster Canal, providing flat and accessible rides. The terrain includes riverside meadows, historic parks like Avenham and Miller Parks, and ancient woodlands. Beyond the city, the rural Lancashire countryside offers quiet roads and tracks for varied cycling experiences. Overall, there are over 180 touring cycling routes available, catering to different preferences.

Yes, Preston is an excellent destination for easy touring cycling. Over 100 of the routes are classified as easy, featuring gentle gradients and mostly flat terrain. Many of these follow riverside paths, canal towpaths, and greenways, making them suitable for a relaxed ride. A great example is the James Brennan Statue – Ribble Steam Railway loop from Our Lady's Catholic High School, an easy 19.9 km route.

Absolutely. Circular routes are a highlight of touring cycling in Preston. The most prominent is the Preston Guild Wheel, a 26.6 km greenway that encircles the city, offering a mix of urban and rural views. Other popular circular options include the Ribble Steam Railway – Guild Wheel Cycle Lane loop from Our Lady's Catholic High School, which also incorporates sections of the Guild Wheel.

Preston's touring cycling routes pass by numerous natural features and attractions. You can cycle along the scenic River Ribble, through the historic Miller Park Fountain and Avenham Parks, and past the unique Brockholes Nature Reserve with its floating village. The Haslam Park Nature Reserve and the Ribble Steam Railway are also accessible along various routes. The Lancaster Canal and Ribble Link Canal offer traffic-free paths with opportunities to spot interesting statues and the Ribble Link Staircase Locks and Holding Basin.

Yes, many routes in Preston are ideal for families due to their traffic-free nature and gentle gradients. The Guild Wheel, with its accessible entry points and varied scenery, is a popular choice. Canal towpaths, such as sections of the Lancaster Canal, also provide safe and enjoyable rides for all ages. Consider the Miller Park Fountain – Brockholes Nature Reserve loop from Preston, an easy 17 km route that passes through parks and a nature reserve, perfect for a family outing.

The best time for touring cycling in Preston is generally from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically milder, and the natural landscapes are at their most vibrant. The paths are usually dry, making for more comfortable rides. While cycling is possible year-round, winter months can bring colder temperatures and wetter conditions.

Many touring cycling routes in Preston, especially those connected to the Guild Wheel or major parks, offer convenient parking options. Avenham and Miller Parks, which serve as official starting points for the Guild Wheel, have parking facilities. For routes like the View of the River Ribble – Brockholes Nature Reserve loop from Broughton, parking is often available near key access points or attractions like Brockholes Nature Reserve.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Preston provide access to cafes and other amenities. The Guild Wheel, for instance, passes by several points where you can find refreshments, including a cafe at Brockholes Nature Reserve. Avenham Park also features a cafe. For longer routes like the Edith Rigby Way Underpass – Lytham Windmill loop from Lea, you'll find options in the towns and villages you pass through.

The touring cycling experience in Preston is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 120 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes that seamlessly blend urban and rural scenery, the extensive network of traffic-free paths, and the accessibility of routes like the Guild Wheel. The presence of historic parks, scenic riverside sections, and nature reserves also contributes to a highly enjoyable experience.

While many routes are easy, Preston also offers moderate options for those seeking a longer ride or more elevation. For example, the Lancaster Canal Towpath – Haslam Park Nature Reserve loop from University of Lancashire is a moderate 44.6 km route. Another option is the Carwags Climb – Guild Wheel Cycle Lane loop from Preston, a 40.2 km route with more significant elevation gain, offering a good challenge.

Preston's cycling network is well-integrated, allowing for combinations of routes. The Guild Wheel connects to the wider National Cycle Network, providing opportunities to extend your ride. You can easily join the Guild Wheel at various points for shorter rides or link it with canal towpaths and other local routes to create a custom, longer touring experience. For instance, the Lower Kem Mill Pond – Todd Lane Junction Pond loop from Preston offers a 21.4 km ride that can be integrated with other local paths.