Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Trough of Bowland Pass
Road cycling
5.0
(123)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
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Tips
September 4, 2018
Road cycling
If you want the virtual experience from the Dunsop Bridge side, check out this great video
July 16, 2020
Road cycling
September 11, 2019
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Trough of Bowland Pass
5.0
(2)
260
riders
86.6km
04:49
1,550m
1,550m
This difficult racebike loop from Lancaster takes you into the challenging and scenic Forest of Bowland. You will experience demanding terrain with significant elevation gain, often on quiet, unspoilt lanes. The route covers 53.8 miles (86.6 km) and features a substantial 5094 feet (1552 metres) of climbing, which you can expect to complete in about 4 hours and 49 minutes. As you ride, you will be treated to stunning views of open moorlands, picturesque river valleys, and panoramic vistas from dramatic fells. Look out for the "slightly Scottish feel" of the landscape and views towards Morecambe Bay from certain points.
The Forest of Bowland is known for its generally good road surfaces, though some sections can be worn or have a grippy British texture, especially on climbs. While mostly paved, be aware that some longer or more difficult routes in the area might include short, unpaved segments. This region is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, ensuring its conservation and natural beauty. You will find charming villages like Slaidburn and Chipping along the way, which offer welcoming pubs and cafes for refreshment stops. Popular choices for cyclists include Puddleducks in Dunsop Bridge and The Cobbled Corner in Chipping.
The Forest of Bowland is a legendary cycling area, renowned as a training ground for elite athletes, including Sir Bradley Wiggins before his 2012 Tour de France victory. Its reputation is built on the demanding nature of its climbs, such as the Trough of Bowland, which features steep sections with gradients up to 16%. The appeal of this area lies in its quiet roads and low traffic levels, as the geography naturally deters heavy vehicles, creating an immersive cycling environment. The region was even dubbed the "Switzerland of England" in 1938, a testament to its dramatic valleys and moorlands.
4.3
(4)
233
riders
67.1km
03:17
970m
970m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
112
riders
103km
05:25
1,700m
1,700m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Distance 9.52 km
Uphill 180 m
Downhill 150 m
Weather
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Monday 11 May
11°C
4°C
34 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 33.0 km/h
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