The best cycling routes around Barnoldswick

Barnoldswick offers a diverse range of terrain for touring cyclists. You'll find everything from flat, traffic-free sections along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal towpath to challenging hill climbs in the Pennines. The area features rolling hills, limestone landscapes, and drumlins, providing varied scenery and gradients suitable for different preferences.

Yes, Barnoldswick has several easy touring cycling routes. The Flooded Road to Alkincoats – Foulridge Wharf and Café loop from Barnoldswick is an excellent option, following the canal towpath for a leisurely, traffic-free ride. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal towpath itself is ideal for family outings and relaxed cycling.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy expansive views from Weets Hill, which offers panoramas of the Aire Valley, Ribble Valley, and even the distant Yorkshire Dales on a clear day. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal, particularly around the Greenberfield Locks, is a key attraction. For specific highlights, consider visiting Pendle Hill summit trig point or Sharp Haw Summit for stunning vistas.

Absolutely. Barnoldswick is situated near the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering access to longer routes. The Whalley Old Bridge – The Forest of Bowland loop from Barnoldswick is a challenging 38-mile trail through scenic landscapes. The Pennine Cycle and Bridleway also pass directly through Barnoldswick, providing options for extended tours.

The touring cycling routes around Barnoldswick are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from picturesque canals to challenging hill climbs, and the access to vast natural parks like the Forest of Bowland.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Barnoldswick are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Gargrave Bridge – Double Arched Stone Bridge loop from Barnoldswick and the Gargrave Bridge – Settle Town Centre loop from Barnoldswick, which offer varied distances and difficulties.

Yes, the area around Barnoldswick has options for refreshments. The Flooded Road to Alkincoats – Foulridge Wharf and Café loop from Barnoldswick, for instance, includes a café. You'll also find villages like Downham Village, which may offer pubs or eateries. For a specific cycling-friendly spot, The Clarion House is a notable cafe in the area.

Beyond the natural landscapes, you can explore several interesting spots. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal itself is a historic landmark. You could also cycle towards National Trust sites like Malham Tarn Estate or Gawthorpe Hall. For local points of interest, consider visiting Alice Nutter Statue or the charming Downham Village.

There are over 40 touring cycling routes available around Barnoldswick, catering to various skill levels. This includes 5 easy routes, 16 moderate routes, and 21 difficult routes, ensuring there's something for every touring cyclist.

Yes, the Whalley Old Bridge – The Forest of Bowland loop from Barnoldswick is a popular option that leads directly through the scenic Forest of Bowland, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering a challenging yet rewarding ride.

The diverse landscapes of Barnoldswick can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with changing foliage in the latter. Summer provides longer daylight hours. While some routes are suitable for winter, always check local conditions and weather forecasts, especially for higher elevations like Weets Hill or routes in the Pennines.

Yes, some routes will take you near local water bodies. You can find highlights such as Lower Ogden Reservoir, Ogden Reservoirs, Upper Ogden Reservoir, Walverden Reservoir, and Barrowford Pond in the vicinity, offering picturesque views and tranquil spots.