The best traffic-free bike rides in Forest Of Bowland Aonb

There are over 50 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes in the Forest of Bowland AONB, offering a range of difficulties from easy to challenging. You'll find around 17 easy, 28 moderate, and 10 difficult routes to explore.

The routes traverse diverse and unspoiled landscapes, including dramatic gritstone fells, deep river valleys, and expansive peat moorlands. You'll experience breathtaking scenery, from the iconic Trough of Bowland with its panoramic vistas to serene stretches through ancient woodlands along rivers like the Hodder and Ribble.

Yes, the Forest of Bowland offers significant elevation gains and exhilarating descents on its quiet lanes. Routes like A long loop of The Forest of Bowland, covering over 100 km with 1250m of ascent, or the Bowland Knotts Climb – Mewith Lane loop with over 1000m of climbing, provide a demanding experience. The Trough of Bowland itself features gradients of around 15% in places.

Many routes offer stunning views and pass by interesting landmarks. You might encounter the Jubilee Tower (Quernmore), enjoy views from Pendle Hill summit trig point, or pass by historical sites like Stonyhurst College. The region's gritstone fells, such as Clougha Pike, also offer panoramic vistas across Lancashire.

Absolutely. The Forest of Bowland has around 17 easy routes suitable for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. A good example is the Clapham Beck Bridge – Strides Café & Bike Shop loop from Clapham, which is a moderate route but offers a gentler introduction to the area's cycling with around 310m of elevation gain over 30km.

Spring, summer, and early autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. The vibrant colours of the heather moorlands in late summer are particularly beautiful. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures, potential ice, and shorter days.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For instance, the Waddington Village – Hodder Bridge loop from Chipping is a moderate 52km circular route that takes you through charming villages and scenic river valleys.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the quiet country lanes, the stunning and varied scenery, and the sense of remoteness that allows for an immersive cycling experience away from traffic.

Yes, the Forest of Bowland AONB is dotted with charming traditional villages like Slaidburn, Chipping, and Downham. These villages often have local pubs and cafes where you can stop for refreshments and a break during your ride. Planning your route to pass through these villages can enhance your cycling experience.

Yes, the Trough of Bowland is a highlight for many cyclists. The Trough of Bowland Pass – Jubilee Tower (Quernmore) loop from Clapham is a challenging 77km route that takes you directly through this iconic mountain pass, offering spectacular views and a memorable climbing experience.

The Forest of Bowland is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest and a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for various bird species, including the iconic Hen Harrier, which is the AONB's symbol. You might also spot rare butterflies like the large heath butterfly, especially in the heather moorlands and blanket bogs.