The best traffic-free bike rides around Rossendale

Rossendale offers a wide selection of no-traffic touring cycling routes, with over 160 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 42 easy, 75 moderate, and 46 difficult tours, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.

Yes, Rossendale has several family-friendly options, often utilizing former railway lines that provide flat, traffic-free paths. The Valley of Stone Greenway (Route 92) is a great example, connecting towns like Rawtenstall and Bacup on a largely off-road path. Many of the easy-rated routes on komoot are also suitable for families.

Rossendale's routes offer diverse terrain. You'll find smooth, repurposed old railway tracks, quiet country roads, and some unpaved sections through farmland and classic flagstone tracks. Routes like the Singletrack to Lee Quarry – Newchurch Tunnels loop can include varied surfaces, from singletrack to more open paths.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops. A notable example is the Manchester Bolton & Bury Canal – Outwood Trail loop from Ramsbottom, which offers a challenging but rewarding circular experience. The Mary Towneley Loop, while longer, also provides extensive circular sections through stunning moorland.

Rossendale's routes pass by numerous points of interest. You might encounter the scenic Clowbridge Reservoir, the historic Cowpe Lowe Trig Point, or the impressive Bull Hill Trig Point. The Pump Track – Healey Dell Nature Reserve loop takes you through a beautiful natural reserve. The Halo Panopticon, an 18-meter steel structure, is another unique cultural attraction you might spot.

Many of Rossendale's no-traffic routes, especially those on former railway lines or bridleways, are dog-friendly. However, it's always best to check specific route details on komoot for any restrictions or recommendations, and ensure your dog is well-behaved and on a leash where required, particularly near livestock or in nature reserves.

The best time to visit Rossendale for touring cycling is generally from spring to autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and the landscapes are vibrant. While winter cycling is possible, some unpaved sections might be muddy or icy, and daylight hours are shorter. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.

Yes, Rossendale's towns and villages, such as Rawtenstall, Ramsbottom, and Bacup, offer various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. Many routes, like the River Irwell – Gravel path to Peel Tower loop from Ramsbottom, start or pass through areas with amenities, making it easy to refuel or find a place to stay.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Rossendale, with an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 39 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse landscapes, the quiet and traffic-free nature of many paths, and the stunning views across the moorland and valleys.

Yes, Rossendale's cycling network includes routes that utilize former railway infrastructure, featuring tunnels. The Rooley Moor Road – Newchurch Tunnels loop is a great example, incorporating the re-opened railway tunnels at Waterfoot, which add a unique historical dimension to your ride.

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages that serve as starting points for many routes, such as Rawtenstall, Ramsbottom, and Whitworth. Specific parking information can often be found in the route descriptions on komoot, or by checking local council websites like rossendale.gov.uk for public car parks.

Many of Rossendale's towns are connected by local bus services, and some routes are accessible from train stations in nearby areas. The Valley of Stone Greenway (Route 92), for instance, connects several towns, making it potentially accessible via public transport. It's advisable to check local bus timetables and routes for specific access points.