Cycling Routes in West Lancs
There are lots of cycling routes in West Lancashire so why not combine cycling with seeing some of the wonderful sites we have to offer.
Clieves Hill and Plex Moss (from Southport)
Arriving by train at Ainsdale Station, start the route at point B on the map, the route will take you out to enjoy the fantastic views from Clieves Hill on a clear day, and is approximately 37.6km long.. Alternatively, start from Southport Station and make your way to the Trans Pennine Trail 'Seamark' obelisk for a slightly longer ride. View details of the Out from Southport route.
A Circuit from Ormskirk
Starting at the train station in Ormskirk this route also goes out to Clieves Hill. There are plenty of undulations and twists and turns to negotiate but the view from the top is well worth the effort. The route is approximately 33.8km. View details of the Circuit from Ormskirk route.
A Grand Tour of West Lancashire
Starting at any of 3 stations, Town Green, Rufford or New Lane, this 65km tour is mainly based on the Lancashire Cycleway. It takes in most of West Lancashire, from the hills in the east to the levels in the west. View details of the Grand Tour of West Lancashire route.
Ribble Coast and Wetlands
The northern part of the Sefton and West Lancashire area is part of the Ribble Coast and Wetlands Regional Park. A fascinating patchwork of different habitats to the north of Southport this special area is one of the most important places for birdlife in europe. This area also includes a number of cycle routes have been developed for you to enjoy.
A Circuit from Southport
A cycling circuit through the rich agricultural land south of the Ribble Estuary, with a chance to visit the RSPB reserve on the wide expanse of Hesketh Out Marsh. There are three off-road sections; the middle one of these is the toughest, but it's quite short. An alternative route is given. The others are easier, though there can be puddles. The route is suitable for most bikes, but not for thoroughbred road bikes. You can now also avoid the busy roundabout at The Plough by using the newly constructed cycle track along the embankment between Marine Drive and Banks Road.
View details of the Circuit from Southport route (21.9 miles)
Rufford and Martin Mere
Several of the West Lancashire areas most important visitor attractions can be visited on a short ride from Burscough, including the rich nature reserves at Martin Mere and Mere Sands Wood, as well as Rufford Old Hall, a magnificent sixteenth century house now in the care of the National Trust. If you are looking for somewhere nice to stop and eat why not try Homestead Farms Shop, full of Lancashire fare.
The ride is short and entirely on tarmac so its suitable for all bikes, and with so many attractions along the way its ideal for all the family, though some of the roads do carry a fair amount of traffic.
View details of the Rufford and Martin Mere route. (10.3 miles)
Burscough and the Mosses
Once, much of this land lay under the waters of a vast lake, of which the present day Martin Mere is just a remnant. Most of the land has been drained, creating wide expanses of black soil under vast skies. The flat terrain makes for easy cycling - until the wind gets up, when the open landscape offers little shelter.
For most of the way the surroundings are rural, but there is a short section through an industrial estate, which is preferable to the busy A59. Surfaces (including the towpath) are generally good and the ride is suitable for most bikes.
View details of the Burscough and the Mosses route. (19.3 miles)