4.8
(93)
6,227
riders
70
rides
Road cycling around Gisburn, situated within Lancashire's Ribble Valley and the Forest of Bowland AONB, offers diverse landscapes for no traffic road cycling routes. The region features rolling hills, extensive woodlands, and the scenic Stocks Reservoir. Cyclists can navigate quiet country lanes that traverse the Bowland Fells, providing varied terrain from gentle gradients to challenging climbs. This area is characterized by a mix of conifer and broadleaved plantations, alongside open fells.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
5.0
(2)
35
riders
47.1km
02:32
790m
790m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
18
riders
38.8km
01:57
440m
440m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
2
riders
16.5km
00:57
280m
280m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Brutal climb, but views from the top well worth the struggle..
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This is a free car park with 19 spaces and 2 disabled spaces. There are public conveniences including an accessibility bathroom. Overnight stays are prohibited. What3words location: linked, buckling, assure
1
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great place for pint+ food,with great views of river Ribble+ bridge from the riverside beer garden
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Fantastic climbs and decent in this area. Views are absolutely stunning
1
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A gorgeous village in the heart of the Ribble Valley. A quiet road leaves the village, leading to The Ribble Valley Jubilee Trail down by the river.
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The village has had a church since at least 1190, and remnants of the 13th-century church still endure within the present structure. However, the most substantial part of the current church was constructed during the mid-15th century. A visit is highly recommended to admire its architecture and the well maintained churchyard.
1
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Downham is a delightful village for those seeking a taste of rural England and the charm of a traditional Lancashire village. Its stunning scenery, historic church, and serene ambiance make it a popular spot for tourists exploring the Ribble Valley.
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Komoot offers nearly 70 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Gisburn. These routes range from easy, family-friendly rides to more challenging excursions through the stunning Forest of Bowland AONB.
Yes, Gisburn offers a selection of easy, no-traffic road cycling routes perfect for families or beginners. For example, the The Forest of Bowland – Downham Village loop from Gisburn is an easy 16.5 km ride with moderate elevation, taking you through picturesque landscapes.
Many routes in the Gisburn area, especially those within Gisburn Forest, often start near the Gisburn Forest Hub. This hub provides amenities including parking, making it a convenient starting point for your ride.
The routes offer diverse and dramatic scenery, from the rolling hills of the Ribble Valley and the Bowland Fells to picturesque waterside views around Stocks Reservoir. You'll experience extensive conifer and spruce plantations alongside broadleaved trees within the Forest of Bowland AONB.
Yes, some routes incorporate charming villages where you can find refreshments. For instance, the Old Vicarage Tearoom – Tosside Village Sign loop from Gisburn passes through areas with potential stops. Additionally, the Gisburn Forest Hub has a café for pre- or post-ride refreshments.
You'll encounter several interesting points. The Pendle Hill summit trig point is a prominent feature in the wider area, offering expansive views. Other viewpoints include Wenningber Hill and the Cross of Greet Climb from Slaidburn, providing stunning vistas of the surrounding AONB.
Gisburn offers enjoyable cycling year-round, but spring and autumn provide particularly pleasant conditions with vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures. Summer is also popular, while winter rides can be beautiful but require checking local conditions due to potential for challenging weather in the Bowland Fells.
Absolutely. Gisburn's landscape, characterized by rolling hills and the Bowland Fells, offers routes with significant elevation gain for experienced riders. The Nick of Pendle – Back Lane Climb Out of Sabden loop from Gisburn is a moderate route with nearly 800m of ascent, providing a good challenge.
The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Gisburn, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 90 ratings. Cyclists frequently praise the quiet country lanes, the dramatic scenery of the Forest of Bowland, and the sense of peaceful escape from traffic.
Yes, cycle hire is available at the Gisburn Forest Hub. This is a convenient option if you don't have your own bike or prefer to rent one locally, and staff can often provide advice on suitable routes.
Many of the no-traffic road cycling routes around Gisburn are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. This is ideal for convenience, especially if you're driving to a trailhead. Examples include the Nick of Pendle – Back Lane Climb Out of Sabden loop from Gisburn and the The Forest of Bowland – Downham Village loop from Gisburn.


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