The best cycling routes around Chipping

There are over 15 touring cycling routes around Chipping, offering a diverse range of experiences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 190 reviews.

The routes around Chipping traverse a diverse landscape, primarily within the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You can expect a mix of impressive fells, deep river valleys (such as the Loud, Lune, and Hodder), and quiet country lanes. Some routes feature challenging ascents like the Trough of Bowland, while others offer more gentle paths through verdant areas.

Yes, Chipping offers routes for various abilities. While many routes involve some climbing, there are several moderate options available. For example, the route The Dog Inn – The Cobbled Corner Café loop from Chipping is a moderate 30.1 km ride with manageable elevation.

Absolutely. The region is known for its challenging climbs. Routes like Slaidburn Village – View of Bowland Knotts loop from Chipping, a difficult 85.2 km trail, offer extensive views and significant elevation gain. Another challenging option is the Trough of Bowland Viewpoint – Hodder Bridge loop from Chipping, which includes the strenuous Trough of Bowland Pass.

Many routes offer stunning natural scenery and viewpoints. You can cycle past fells like Parlick and Longridge Fell, with highlights such as the Trig point at Longridge Fell summit offering panoramic views. The routes also follow picturesque river valleys, including the Loud, Lune, and Hodder, providing a beautiful backdrop for your ride.

Yes, the area around Chipping is rich in history and interesting spots. You might pass by the historic Stonyhurst College or the charming village of Chipping itself, known for its 13th-century church and traditional stone-built cottages. Some routes also lead towards Dunsop Bridge – Centre of the United Kingdom.

Many of the touring cycling routes around Chipping are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Slaidburn War Memorial – Hodder Bridge loop from Chipping and The Cobbled Corner Café – Waddington Fell Road Climb loop from Chipping, both offering scenic circular journeys.

Chipping and the surrounding villages are well-equipped with amenities for cyclists. Chipping itself has welcoming pubs, cafes, and farm shops. Many routes are designed to pass through or near these charming villages, providing ample opportunities for refreshment stops. For instance, the route The Dog Inn – The Cobbled Corner Café loop from Chipping highlights specific establishments.

While Chipping is a rural village, local bus services connect it to larger towns like Longridge and Preston, which have more extensive public transport links. It's advisable to check current bus schedules and bike carriage policies with local operators if you plan to use public transport to access the routes.

The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Chipping. During these seasons, you can expect milder weather, longer daylight hours, and the vibrant landscapes of the Forest of Bowland. However, the fells can be exposed, so always be prepared for changeable weather regardless of the season.

Yes, the Forest of Bowland is a popular cycling destination. You can find additional resources such as the 'Bowland by Bike' leaflet, which details various routes in the area. For more information on cycling in Lancashire, you can also visit Visit Lancashire's cycling section.

Chipping is an excellent base due to its location at the southern end of the Forest of Bowland AONB, offering immediate access to diverse terrain. The village itself is charming, with amenities like pubs and cafes, and it serves as a common starting or stopping point for many routes. Its extensive network of quiet country lanes and varied routes caters to different cycling preferences.