The best cycling routes around Preston

There are over 200 touring cycling routes around Preston documented on komoot, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. Many of these routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars.

Preston offers several easy routes perfect for beginners or families. The Rutland Water Cycle Path – Rutland Water Nature Reserve loop from Lyndon is an easy 11.1-mile (17.9 km) path with gentle gradients and scenic views. Another great option is the Rutland Water Cycle Path – Rutland Water Nature Reserve loop from Manton, which is 9.5 miles (15.3 km) long and also considered easy. The Guild Wheel, a 21-mile circular route, also has sections suitable for leisurely rides through parks like Avenham and Miller Parks.

Yes, Preston is famously home to the Guild Wheel, a 21-mile (34.5 km) circular route that encircles the city, connecting urban areas with tranquil countryside. It incorporates riverside paths, canal sides, ancient woodland, and historic parkland. For a longer circular option, consider the Lagoon 4 Track – Hambleton Peninsula Loop loop from Uppingham, which is 25.7 miles (41.4 km) long.

Touring cycling routes around Preston offer a diverse range of scenery. You'll find riverside paths along the River Ribble, peaceful canal towpaths like the Ribble Link and Lancaster Canal, and ancient woodlands. The routes also pass through historic parklands such as Avenham and Miller Parks, and nature reserves like Brockholes, providing a mix of natural beauty and urban green spaces.

Many routes in Preston offer convenient stops for refreshments. The Guild Wheel, for instance, passes through Brockholes Nature Reserve which has a floating cafe and visitor center. Avenham and Miller Parks, a popular starting point for the Guild Wheel, also feature a cafe. Additionally, the various parks and town centers along canal routes often provide opportunities for cafe breaks.

While cycling around Preston, you can encounter several interesting natural features and landmarks. The routes often follow the scenic River Ribble and its waterways. You might also pass by significant structures like the Welland Viaduct or the historic Normanton Church. The area also features beautiful woodlands such as Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland and the expansive Rutland Water, which is also part of the Rutland Water Cycle Route.

Preston's city center is well-served by public transport, making many cycling routes accessible. The Guild Wheel, for example, can be joined at various points around the city, many of which are reachable by local bus services. For routes further afield, checking local bus or train schedules to nearby towns and villages would be advisable to plan your access.

Parking is available at several key access points for touring cycling routes in Preston. For the Guild Wheel, Avenham and Miller Parks are official starting points with parking facilities. Other parks like Haslam Park and Ashton Park also offer parking. For routes along canals or in the wider countryside, look for designated parking areas near trailheads or in nearby villages.

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Preston, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, especially bluebells in places like Boilton Wood Nature Reserve. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially wet conditions.

Yes, for more experienced touring cyclists looking for a challenge, Preston serves as a gateway to the broader Lancashire Cycleway, which includes two 130-mile loops. Within the komoot routes, the Rutland Water Dam – View of Rutland Water loop from Preston is a moderate 33.9-mile (54.7 km) route, and the Rutland Water Cycle Path – Stamford Historic Town Centre loop from Manton covers 23.8 miles (38.3 km) with moderate difficulty.

The touring cycling routes around Preston are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 370 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse scenery, which includes tranquil riverside paths, peaceful canal towpaths, and lush ancient woodlands. The accessibility of routes and the variety of options for different skill levels are also frequently highlighted as positive aspects.

Absolutely. Preston's touring cycling routes, particularly those passing through nature reserves and along waterways, offer excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Brockholes Nature Reserve, which the Guild Wheel passes through, is a 250-acre site with diverse wildlife. Fishwick Local Nature Reserve is known for attracting kingfishers and herons, while Boilton Wood is famous for its spring bluebells. Keep an eye out for various bird species and other local fauna.