4.4
(648)
22,103
riders
101
rides
Road cycling routes around Bury offer a diverse landscape north of Manchester, characterized by a blend of tranquil riverside trails and challenging moorland climbs. The region features the rugged terrain of the West Pennine Hills and Moors, providing significant elevation changes and expansive views. The picturesque Irwell Valley also offers lush greenery and peaceful paths alongside the River Irwell, suitable for various cycling abilities.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
4.5
(4)
33
riders
71.5km
03:41
1,110m
1,110m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.8
(12)
246
riders
50.2km
02:16
530m
530m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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133
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(2)
116
riders
41.6km
01:55
510m
510m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.3
(3)
109
riders
41.5km
02:02
620m
620m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(3)
110
riders
34.1km
01:33
380m
370m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
101
riders
66.4km
03:19
1,040m
1,040m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(1)
64
riders
51.8km
02:37
720m
720m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.5
(2)
45
riders
19.4km
00:54
190m
190m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.5
(6)
50
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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The path around the reservoir is worthwhile. It's used by many runners and dog walkers. Unfortunately, the reservoir is currently low on water.
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I'm assuming it's kamoot that keeps changing the names of highlights. Pity they keep getting it wrong!
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At the top of the rake climb, there is a nice welcoming pub you might want to catch your breath there.
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Nice cafe, plenty of choice on the menu, good coffee, indoor & outdoor seating
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Excellent views over Rivington, Manchester and Rochdale, nice pub here too, the Owd Betts.
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Great cafe, popular for cyclist and walkers good atmosphere, eat in or out good choice of food you have got to try the salt and pepper chips.
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Great ice cream and coffees here. A childhood trip down memory lane
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There are over 100 road cycling routes around Bury, offering a diverse range of options for all abilities. This includes nearly 40 easy routes, over 50 moderate paths, and 11 challenging excursions through the region's varied terrain.
Yes, Bury offers nearly 40 easy road cycling routes. For a gentler ride, consider The Horseshoe Pub, Ringley – Ringley Old Bridge loop from Prestwich, which is just under 12 miles long and follows tranquil riverside paths.
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Bury features 11 difficult routes. A notable option is A tour of the reservoirs & moors west of Ramsbottom, a 44.4-mile route with over 3,600 feet of elevation gain. Additionally, the region is home to 'The Rake Climb', a classic short and steep ascent with a maximum gradient of 22%, known for its inclusion in professional cycling events.
Many routes in Bury offer expansive views, particularly those traversing the West Pennine Hills and Moors. The View of Rivington Reservoir – View of Chorley and the Coast loop from Ramsbottom is a challenging route that rewards cyclists with panoramic vistas. You can also visit Peel Tower, which offers incredible views stretching over Manchester and towards the coast.
Yes, many of Bury's road cycling routes are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include The Drop Off Café – Heart of the Ram loop from Tottington High School and SADOS Community Centre – Tottington Station loop from Tottington High School, both offering varied terrain and scenic loops.
Bury's road cycling routes offer a diverse landscape. You'll find tranquil riverside trails along the Irwell Valley, lush greenery in areas like Burrs Country Park, and challenging moorland climbs with expansive views in the West Pennine Hills and Moors. Routes often pass through ancient woodlands, heathland, and charming historic villages.
Yes, several routes pass by notable landmarks. You can cycle past Peel Tower, offering stunning views, or explore parts of the Outwood Trail, which follows a former railway line. The Irwell Sculpture Trail also offers a unique artistic backdrop to your ride.
The road cycling routes in Bury are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse terrain, from peaceful riverside paths to demanding moorland climbs, and the well-maintained paths that cater to various ability levels.
Yes, many routes are designed to pass through or near charming villages. Ramsbottom, for example, is a lively market town often featured in routes like Tottington Station – Heart of the Ram loop from Tottington, offering opportunities for cafe stops and a glimpse into local heritage.
Absolutely. The region is dotted with picturesque reservoirs. A popular route is Eagley Brook Mill – View of Entwistle Reservoir loop from Ainsworth, which offers views of Entwistle Reservoir. Another option is Belmont Reservoir Dam Wall – Belmont Reservoir loop from Turton Road/Ferns.
The spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Bury, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, the diverse terrain means that routes can be enjoyed year-round, with moorland areas providing a different challenge in cooler, windier conditions.
Yes, Burrs Country Park, situated on the River Irwell, is a 36-hectare park with woodlands and open spaces, and parts of it are accessible by bike, offering a scenic and peaceful ride.


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