Cycling
Cycling in West Lancashire is easy, fun and, what's more,
it is good for you. One of the best things about the borough for
cyclists is that it is relatively flat, particularly on the moss
lanes between Ormskirk and Southport and to the north of the
district in the Tarleton area.
West Lancashire also offers some fine off-road cycling, most
notably the Cheshire Lines path - a former railway track
which runs between Maghull and Ainsdale. This route forms part of
the Trans-Pennine Trail. There are also several miles of canal
towpath running through the borough, much of which is cyclable.
Alternatively, explore many of the quiet country lanes, stop off at
one of the many country pubs or coffee shops, or visit one of the
local tourist
attractions such as WWT Martin Mere or Rufford Old Hall.
Cycle maps for Ormskirk and Skelmersdale
Lancashire County Council (LCC) has produced a range
of maps detailing cycling routes in and around Ormskirk and
Skelmersdale. You can download the maps below, or
contact us for a paper copy on 01695 585274 or email
ldf@westlancs.gov.uk.
Cycle rides in West Lancashire
LCC has published a guide to Cycle
Rides in West Lancashire (external link). This booklet contains
maps and details of four different cycle rides in West Lancashire,
all starting and finishing at a railway station.
Cycling in West Lancashire if you live outside the
borough
If you live outside the borough why not hop onto a train with your
bike and get off at one of West Lancashire's rural stations? From
Wigan or Southport you could get off at Bescar Lane, New Lane,
Burscough Bridge, Hoscar, Parbold or Appley Bridge and enjoy a
variety of routes which suit cyclists of all abilities.
Alternatively, travel from Preston to Rufford, or from Liverpool
to Town Green, and meander off and explore the countryside. Train
times and details of cycle carriage are available from Merseyrail
(from Liverpool) or from First Northwestern for all other routes.
See the Travel
Information page for more details.
Cycling strategy
We are keen to encourage cycle use for both commuting
and leisure, and have produced a strategy to develop better
cycle routes and facilities across the district:
West Lancashire's Cycle Action Group
If
you are interested in cycling, why not join West Lancashire's Cycle
Action Group? The group meets every two months in Ormskirk to
discuss ways of improving cycling facilities in the district.
Members are welcome from across the borough and, if you don't
like attending meetings, you could just sign up to get information
to keep you in touch with what is happening locally. If you are
interested in joining, or would like further information, contact
Alan Tyldesley on 01695 578 132.
Related information