Highlight • Viewpoint
Trough of Bowland Viewpoint
Road cycling
4.9
(89)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
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August 31, 2022
Road cycling
September 11, 2019
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Trough of Bowland Viewpoint
4.8
(5)
300
riders
82.5km
04:20
1,270m
1,270m
The Forest of Bowland northern fells loop offers a difficult road cycling challenge, covering 51.2 miles (82.5 km) with a significant 4172 feet (1271 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this route in about 4 hours and 19 minutes. This trail takes you through dramatic fells, expansive moorlands, and picturesque river valleys, featuring quiet, winding lanes with varied gradients. You will encounter both challenging climbs, often described as "convex" for their steep starts, and exhilarating descents. From vantage points like Jubilee Tower, you might see Blackpool Tower and the sea, or the distant peaks of Gragareth, Whernside, and Ingleborough on a clear day.
Road cycling in the northern fells of the Forest of Bowland requires good to very good fitness due to the substantial climbing involved. While road surfaces are generally well-maintained, some sections can be a bit rough or unpaved, so ride with caution. Specific ascents like the Trough of Bowland and Cross o' Greet are known for steep sections, with gradients reaching 15-20%. There is no easy cycling to be had here, so prepare for a demanding ride.
This area is a legendary destination for cycling, considered by many to be one of the best in the UK. It gained recognition as a training ground for professional cyclists, including Sir Bradley Wiggins, who prepared here for his 2012 Tour de France victory. The quiet roads and sense of isolation provide an escape, making it a favorite for those who want to immerse themselves in nature while pushing their physical limits. The fells feature iconic climbs frequently documented in cycling books, adding to their allure.
4.7
(9)
172
riders
53.9km
02:38
660m
660m
Embark on a moderate racebike loop through the stunning Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This 33.5-mile (53.9 km) route from Garstang takes you through dramatic fells, expansive moorlands, and picturesque river valleys, offering a peaceful cycling experience on quiet country lanes. You will climb a total of 2166 feet (660 metres) over approximately 2 hours and 37 minutes, with challenging sections like the iconic Trough of Bowland pass featuring gradients up to 16%.
Prepare for a hilly ride with varied gradients, demanding good to very good fitness. While road surfaces are generally well-maintained, the
1
riders
122km
05:14
1,020m
1,020m
Cycle the challenging 75.9-mile Lancashire Cycleway (Northern Loop) through the Forest of Bowland, featuring 3331 feet of elevation gain.
Details
Informations
Elevation 170 m
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Tuesday 16 June
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12°C
73 %
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Max wind speed: 22.0 km/h
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