The best traffic-free bike rides around Chorley

Chorley offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes designed to keep you away from heavy traffic. There are over 70 routes available, catering to various skill levels, with 23 easy, 30 moderate, and 17 difficult options.

Yes, Chorley is well-suited for family cycling, especially along its extensive network of traffic-free paths. The Leeds & Liverpool Canal towpaths are particularly popular for their flat terrain and scenic views, offering a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages. Additionally, parks like Yarrow Valley Country Park and Cuerden Valley Park provide pleasant, car-free tracks.

Chorley's routes offer a diverse range of terrain. You can find flat, easy-going paths along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal and around the Anglezarke Reservoirs. For those seeking more of a challenge, routes through Rivington Country Park and the West Pennine Moors feature rugged hills and significant elevation gains, providing stunning panoramic views.

Many routes offer access to significant landmarks and beautiful viewpoints. You might encounter the iconic Rivington Pike Tower, offering expansive views, or the serene Anglezarke Reservoirs. Other points of interest include the Winter Hill Summit and TV Mast, and various historical sites and natural monuments like the Noon Hill Bronze Age burial cairn.

Yes, several circular routes are available, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the "Chorley Loop Cycle Route" is a 10-mile circular path that includes sections along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal and visits Astley Park. Another option is the "Chorley - Whittle-Le-Woods Circular," which uses traffic-free paths and quiet rural roads, passing through Cuerden Valley Park.

The best time for touring cycling in Chorley is generally from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and the natural landscapes are at their most vibrant. While some routes are accessible year-round, winter can bring challenging conditions, especially on higher ground in the West Pennine Moors.

For those seeking longer adventures, Chorley serves as a great starting point. A significant option is the Pier to Pier and Lancashire Cycleway Loop, a substantial 49.9-mile trail connecting coastal areas with inland paths, offering a comprehensive touring experience.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Chorley, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from the serene reservoir paths to the challenging moorland climbs, and the extensive network of traffic-free routes that make for a peaceful and enjoyable ride.

Absolutely. Chorley offers 30 routes classified as moderate difficulty, providing a good balance of challenge and accessibility. An example is The Japanese Garden – Rivington Pike Tower loop from Rivington, which covers 13.4 km with notable elevation changes, perfect for those looking for a bit more than an easy ride without extreme demands.

Many popular starting points for Chorley's cycling routes, especially those around Rivington Country Park and the Anglezarke Reservoirs, offer dedicated parking facilities. Areas like Yarrow Valley Country Park and Cuerden Valley Park also provide convenient parking for accessing their trail networks. It's advisable to check specific route details for parking information.

Chorley has good public transport links, including a train station, which can help you access various parts of the region. Many routes are designed to be accessible from urban fringes, allowing for connections to public transport. For specific route access, consider checking local bus services that might serve areas near trailheads, particularly for routes along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal.