Routes to Suit
Published on: 14 April 2022 in Blog by Max Hardman
(Taken from Live Ribble Valley Magazine Issue 132 – April 2022)
We’re very lucky in our little corner of Lancashire that there are great opportunities to explore by bike, whatever your age, ability or interest.
Whether you want to take in the views, take it easy, take the kids, or take a ride on the wild side – you can do it all, and it all starts in Dunsop Bridge. We’ve highlighted just a few routes here, with full details online.
For families
First things first – an ice cream at Puddleducks and a trip to the park! Practice with the children’s trailer or kid’s seats up Brennand Valley (look out for kingfishers) and then tootle over to the Wild Boar Park via Little Bowland for a scenic ride and fun-filled afternoon. Comeback via Chipping and grab a brew at Chipping Farm Shop, or an evening meal at the Inn at Whitwell.
For foodies
Indulge in some of the best food in the North West, right on ourdoorstep. Set out over Jeffrey to Ribchester for breakfast at Stydd Garden, carry on to Hurst Green for a cycle around scenic Stonyhurst and lunch at The Shireburn, and then pedal up an appetite for the best steak you’ve had this year, at The Red Pump Inn. Head back over Hall Hill, and don’t worry, the electric drive will give you a boost when you need it after such a deliciously decadent day.
For adventurers
Whether you take your own bike, hire one from our Dunsop HQ and enjoy the ride through Slaidburn and past Stocks Reservoir, or arrange to have one of our e mountain bikes delivered to The Hub; Gisburn Forest is THE place to go for mountain biking and off-road trails.
For explorers
Versatility is key to this scenic route – you can build your own adventure, depending on how fit you’re feeling or how far you’re committed to going. From Dunsop Bridge to Slaidburn via Back Lane, there are a number of loops (of different distance) you can then choose to take across or around Easington Fell and return via Waddington Fell, Whitewell, or Chipping. Your efforts will be rewarded with great views at every turn.