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United Kingdom
England
North West England

Rainow

The best cycling routes around Rainow

4.5

(287)

6,939

riders

536

rides

Touring cycling routes around Rainow traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills and valleys, situated on the western edge of the Peak District. The region features a network of quiet country roads, often winding through agricultural land and offering views of the surrounding Cheshire plains and distant moorland. Elevation changes are common, with routes incorporating both gentle ascents and more challenging climbs.

Best touring cycling routes around Rainow

  • The most popular touring cycling route is Waterside Café – Errwood Reservoir…

Last updated: May 29, 2026

5.0

(2)

37

riders

#1.

Pym Chair – Blaze Hill Climb loop from Bollington

20.0km

01:36

560m

560m

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

Hard
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Popular around Rainow

Peak District National Park – A Walk in the Parks

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Peak District National Park – A Walk in the Parks

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Jen Lowthrop

Tips from the Community

JakobusPilger
May 27, 2026, Bollington War Memorial

Most people who pass such a War Memorial to commemorate the victims will not have experienced the horrors of war firsthand. A dialogue invented by the writer Paul Harding might help. It is a crime novel set in the Middle Ages, in which the following dialogue takes place: » „Tell me, brother, when you… went to war in France with your younger brother, were you happy?“ Athelstan felt his heart skip a beat. „Of course.“ He gave a thin smile. „I was young then. Blood was boiling in my veins, and I longed for great adventures.“ „And when you found your brother dead and cold as ice on the battlefield and returned to England, … what was that?“ Athelstan looked out into the courtyard, it was getting dark. „In the Gospel, Sir John, Christ says that at the end of the world the heavens will shake, and the planets will fall to earth in blazing fire.“ Athelstan closed his eyes. He felt Francis's spirit very clearly. „When I found my brother dead on the field,“ he continued, „then for me the heavens fell to earth.“ « (Source: „The House of the Red Butcher“ by Paul Harding)

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Good selection of beers and great views

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Stuart
August 29, 2025, Top of Brickwork

Presume it’s the first hill out of Cheshire , and a hill it is just 👍

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Don't attempt to cycle these on your bike unless you are Danny McAskill or similar

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Saint Stephen, the patron saint of this church commonly known as the "Woodland Chapel," is one of the first seven deacons of the original Jerusalem church and the first martyr (martyr) of early Christianity. The church commemorates him on Boxing Day, December 26. When Stephen recounted his vision of the open heavens: "But he, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God" (Acts 7:55), the people were so outraged that they drove him out of the city and stoned him.

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Such a challenging climb in a road bike, you soon run out of gears on a 11-32t rear cassette, but the views at the top make it worth your while & then hood onto your hats on the descent down towards Fernlee reservoir & the Goyt Valley

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Deki Fourcin
March 29, 2025, Pym Chair

To reach Pym Chair it's a steep climb from either Lamaload Reservoir or Errwood Reservoir. Once at the top, you're rewarded with glorious views into the Goyt Valley and towards Cats Tor.

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A small, bustling town on the edge of the Peak District, with numerous independent cafés, shops and pubs. During the Industrial Revolution, Bollington was a centre for cotton mills, quarries and coal mines. Many of the historic mills are still standing, now mostly converted to apartments.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available around Rainow?

There are over 540 touring cycling routes in the Rainow area, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. You'll find everything from easy rides to more challenging ascents.

What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Rainow?

The best time for touring cycling in Rainow is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is typically milder and drier, making for more pleasant riding conditions. However, the Peak District weather can be unpredictable, so always be prepared for changes.

Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Rainow?

Yes, Rainow offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. For example, the Bollington Village – Red Willow loop from Bollington is an easy 9.3 miles (14.9 km) path that winds through local villages with gentle gradients.

Where can I find more challenging touring cycling routes around Rainow?

For more advanced touring cyclists, Rainow's landscape, situated on the edge of the Peak District, provides routes with significant elevation changes. Consider the Waterside Café – Errwood Reservoir loop from Rainow, a 21.9 miles (35.3 km) trail featuring substantial climbs and descents, or the Waterside Café – Descent to Bollington loop from Bollington for another difficult option.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Rainow?

Many of the touring cycling routes around Rainow are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Waterside Café – Errwood Reservoir loop from Rainow and the Kickback Coffee – Descent to Bollington loop from Bollington.

What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Rainow?

Touring cycling routes around Rainow primarily feature quiet country roads that wind through rolling hills and valleys. You'll encounter agricultural land, offering views of the Cheshire plains and distant moorland. Expect a mix of gentle ascents and more challenging climbs, characteristic of the Peak District's western edge.

What natural landmarks or viewpoints can I see along touring cycling routes near Rainow?

The Rainow area offers several natural landmarks and viewpoints. You might encounter the Shining Tor trig point, offering expansive views, or the Eccles Pike Summit and Toposcope. The Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls is another notable natural attraction in the wider region.

Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes near Rainow?

Parking is generally available in and around the villages like Rainow and Bollington, which serve as common starting points for many routes. Look for public car parks or designated roadside parking areas. Always check local signage for any restrictions or fees.

Are there cafes or pubs along the touring cycling routes in Rainow?

Yes, you'll find various cafes and pubs in the villages and towns that many routes pass through or start from, such as Bollington. These establishments offer convenient stops for refreshments and meals, often catering to cyclists. It's always a good idea to check opening times in advance.

What should I wear for touring cycling in Rainow, considering the weather?

Given Rainow's location on the edge of the Peak District, the weather can change quickly. It's advisable to wear layers that can be easily added or removed. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are essential, even on seemingly fine days. Padded cycling shorts, gloves, and appropriate footwear will enhance your comfort.

What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Rainow?

The touring cycling routes in Rainow are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 290 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic country roads, the variety of terrain, and the rewarding views of the Cheshire plains and Peak District moorland.

Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in Rainow?

While many routes involve rolling hills, there are options suitable for families looking for gentler rides. Look for routes described as 'easy' with minimal elevation gain, often found winding through local villages or along flatter sections of the Cheshire plains. The Bollington Village – Red Willow loop from Bollington is a good example of an easy, family-friendly option.

Can I find routes that include reservoirs or water features?

Yes, some touring cycling routes in the Rainow area incorporate scenic reservoirs. For instance, the Waterside Café – Errwood Reservoir loop from Rainow offers views of Errwood Reservoir and surrounding moorland, providing picturesque water features along your ride. Another route, the Bottoms Reservoir – Bollington Village loop from Bollington, also passes by a reservoir.

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