4.4
(215)
8,106
riders
384
rides
Road cycling routes around Mawdesley traverse a varied landscape, from the flat, agricultural expanse of Mawdesley Moss to quiet country lanes. The region is characterized by brooks, the River Douglas, and the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, offering peaceful waterside sections. To the east, the terrain becomes hillier, providing views over the West Lancashire Plain and featuring low rises like Harrock Hill. This blend of flat and gently undulating routes caters to diverse road cycling preferences.
Last updated: November 12, 2026
47
riders
96.6km
03:52
320m
320m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
22
riders
61.5km
02:30
150m
150m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

5.0
(1)
17
riders
Easy road ride. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
17
riders
105km
04:17
520m
520m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(1)
3
riders
74.8km
03:11
390m
390m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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The road is currently car free as it is closed to cars at the bridge over the Cheshire Lines. Concrete barriers stop cars getting through but you can still get through on a bike. Beware though that they are intermittently working on the bridge - before Christmas I came down from Haskayne to find that I couldn't get through - I therefore had to retrace my steps.
1
0
Southport Marina offers plenty of activities, including boat rentals, crazy golf, adventure playgrounds, a model railway, and various amusements. It’s also an ideal spot to pause and enjoy the scenic surroundings along your route.
1
0
brill little cafe ,home made pie,s + cakes, and super cheap, see photo,s, 😋
0
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The bridge is in the middle of nowhere so don't expect coffee and cake unless you bring your own! Nice road for cycling though linking Mere Brow and Croston - always quiet and traffic free.
0
0
Mawdesley offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 400 options available on komoot. These range from easy rides across flat agricultural plains to more challenging routes with accessible inclines.
The terrain around Mawdesley is varied. You'll find many quiet country lanes across the flat, agricultural expanse of Mawdesley Moss, often alongside brooks, the River Douglas, and the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. To the east, the countryside becomes hillier, offering splendid views over the West Lancashire Plain and featuring low rises like Harrock Hill.
Yes, Mawdesley has numerous easy road cycling routes. Over 160 routes are classified as easy, perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. An example is the Mere Brow Deli – Boat House Brasserie loop from Rufford, which covers about 16.6 km with minimal elevation gain.
Road cycling routes often pass by interesting features. You might encounter the three-turbine wind farm on Mawdesley Moss, or cycle alongside the historic Leeds & Liverpool Canal. The area also offers views of Harrock Hill to the east. For a specific point of interest, the Eyes Lane Metal Bridge is a local landmark.
Yes, the quieter country lanes and flat sections, particularly around Mawdesley Moss and along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, are well-suited for family rides. Routes with lower elevation gains and less traffic make for a pleasant experience for all ages. Consider routes like the Hunters Hill Climb – Eccleston Village loop from Rufford, which is an easy 27.3 km ride.
Many of the road cycling routes around Mawdesley are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. This is ideal for exploring the varied landscapes without retracing your steps. For example, the popular Pigs in Woodland Pasture – The Village Green loop from Rufford is a 96.6 km circular route.
The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Mawdesley, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 160 reviews. Cyclists often praise the blend of quiet country lanes, the peaceful waterside sections along the River Douglas and Leeds & Liverpool Canal, and the varied landscapes that cater to different abilities.
Yes, the region around Mawdesley is dotted with local establishments perfect for a cycling break. Villages like Croston, described as one of the most attractive in the area, offer several pubs and restaurants. Additionally, places like Cedar Farm provide a cafe, and the Twin Lakes Velo Café is specifically geared towards cyclists.
The spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Mawdesley, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, the quiet country lanes can be enjoyed year-round, with autumn providing beautiful scenery and winter offering crisp, clear rides, though some routes might be more exposed to the elements.
Absolutely. You could visit Martin Mere Wetland Centre for birdwatching, or explore the historic Rufford Old Hall, a National Trust property with pleasant grounds. For outdoor activities, Rock and River Outdoor Pursuits offers various adventures. The charming Croston Village Centre is also a great place to explore.
While specific parking areas for each route vary, Mawdesley and its surrounding villages offer various public parking options. Many routes start from or pass through villages like Rufford, which typically have facilities. It's advisable to check local parking availability for your chosen starting point.
Yes, Mawdesley serves as an excellent base for longer road cycling adventures. Routes like the Pigs in Woodland Pasture – The Village Green loop from Rufford cover 96.6 km, and the Eyes Lane Bridge – Eyes Lane Metal Bridge loop from Rufford extends to 84 km, providing ample distance for endurance riders.


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