Walking, Cycling and Riding in Lancashire

Lancashire is a bit of a hidden gem for getting outdoors, offering everything from flat coastal breezes to proper “thigh-burning” hill climbs. Whether you’re on two wheels, four hooves, or your own two feet, here are the routes actually worth your time.

The Guild Wheel (Preston)

This is the big one for cyclists. It’s a 21-mile circular route that rings the city of Preston.

• Surface: Almost entirely paved and very smooth, making it perfect for road bikes, trailers, and kids who aren’t great on gravel yet.
• The Experience: It’s mostly off-road, weaving through lovely spots like Brockholes Nature Reserve and Avenham Park.
• Vibe: Very family-friendly. You can easily spend 3 to 4 hours doing the full loop, or just hop on for a section. Teenagers might find the flat pace a bit “samey” after ten miles, but there are plenty of spots to stop for a burger or a brew.
• Refreshments: The Continental near Avenham Park is a local favourite for a pitstop.

Forest of Bowland (North Lancashire)

If you want drama and fewer crowds, head here. It’s an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that feels much more rugged.

• Gisburn Forest: This is the go-to for mountain bikers. There are various loops ranging from easy “Blue” trails to technical “Red” and “Black” runs with jumps and berms.
• Surface: Hard-packed gravel and forest tracks.
• The Experience: It’s brilliant for teens and active adults who want an adrenaline hit. Young kids will need close supervision on the steeper bits as it’s a working forest with some tricky terrain. You could easily spend a full day here.
• Points of Interest: The views over Stocks Reservoir are stunning.

The Lancaster Canal (Lancaster to Carnforth)

For a lazy afternoon, the canal towpath is a winner for walkers and casual cyclists.

• Route: Linear, but you can go as far as you like. The stretch between Lancaster and Carnforth is particularly scenic.
• Surface: Flat and mostly well-maintained, though it can get a bit muddy after a typical Lancashire downpour.
• Vibe: It’s “interesting” rather than “thrilling.” It’s great for a slow-paced family walk where you can spot canal boats and kingfishers. Younger kids will enjoy the ducks; teens might find it a bit dull unless there’s a pub at the end.
• Points of Interest: The Lune Aqueduct is a massive stone structure that carries the canal over the river—it’s quite a sight and worth the walk just to say you’ve crossed it.

Pendle Hill (East Lancashire)

The iconic climb. This is primarily a walking and riding challenge.

• Route: The most popular circular starts from Barley. It’s about 5 miles, but don’t let the distance fool you—the “Big End” is a steep slog.
• Surface: Grass, peat, and stone steps.
• The Experience: This is for the active family. Young kids might struggle with the steepness (expect to carry them or hear some complaining), but the 360-degree views from the top are the best in the county. It takes about 2 to 3 hours.
• Vibe: It’s all about the history of the Pendle Witches. In Barley, there’s a decent playground for the kids, and The Pendle Inn is great for a post-climb meal.

Longton Brickcroft and the Ribble Way

If you want something coastal and flat, the Ribble Way offers great estuary views.

• Route: Linear sections. The paths around Longton and Hesketh Bank are great for birdwatching.
• Surface: A mix of gravel paths and grass embankments.
• Vibe: Very quiet. Good for older adults and those who want a peaceful stroll. It’s not “hands-on” entertainment, just a nice place to clear your head.

A quick tip for planning:
Lancashire’s weather is notoriously fickle, so even the paved routes can get slippery. Most of these spots have pay-and-display parking, and while the “attractions” (the hills and paths) are free, the local cafes and pubs in places like Barley or Glasson Dock can be a bit pricey because they know you’re hungry after a long trek!