• Distance: Approx 50 miles
  • Ascent: 5,396 ft
  • Grade: Difficult

This road bike ride takes in the picturesque but often punishingly steep hills of the Forest of Bowland.

It's a tough but rewarding ride over roads used by none other than Bradley Wiggins for his winter training.

There are numerous opportunities to stop for refreshments along the way.

The ride is recommended for experienced cyclists - make sure you've got all the equipment you need to get back safely.

DOWNLOAD THE .GPX FILE FOR THIS ROUTE

 

THE RIDE

The village of Galgate is easily accessible from the M6 and is therefore a good starting point for this ride. Alternatively, start from Lancaster picking up the road to Quernmore to the south of Williamson Park.

From the centre of Galgate ride along Chapel Lane then follow the road to the southern end of the Lancaster University campus.

Turn right and follow the road to a crossroads. Turn right towards Quernmore, descending steeply into the village.

Now start climbing again, following the road as it climbs steeply towards Jubilee Tower. The gradient peaks at about 11%, but it feels steeper.

Enjoy the view over Morecambe Bay from the tower, then continue along the road. You're now at the start of an undulating road that leads you to Dunsop Bridge. There are a few tough climbs along the way, as well as the magnificent descent through the Trough of Bowland.

At Dunsop Bridge, turn left and follow the road through the village towards Newton.

If you fancy a really tough challenge, turn right at Newton towards the steep side of Waddington Fell.

Otherwise, continue to Slaidburn, before following the road over Witton Hills to Grindleton.

From Grindleton, head towards West Bradford and then on to Waddington.

The village is a great place for a coffee before tackling the cruel climb to the summit of Waddington Fell. You're likely to see numerous cyclists testing themselves on this climb.

Descend to Newton, then turn left to retrace your steps to Galgate. Your legs won't thank you for the return journey, with a series of tough climbs at gradients of up to 20%.