LET’S TAKE A RIDE…
One of our favoured routes at Ribble Cycles is a loop of Longridge Fell. It’s best suited to riders with a good level of fitness.
Longridge Fell Loop
Distance: 22 miles.
Elevation Change: 1180ft.
Difficulty Rating: 3 out of 5
Starting in Longridge town centre you head out of town along the B5269 as far as the Corporation Arms. Bear left onto the B6243 and follow the road as it meanders its way towards Hurst Green.
Upon reaching the hamlet of Hurst Green you will encounter the lovely Shireburn Arms, the starting point of the 5.5mile long Tolkien Trail. The trail takes in the historic Stonyhurst College and surrounding countryside which is thought to have provided the inspiration for ‘the shire’ in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Exiting Hurst Green, you are greeted by the majestic sight of Pendle Hill in the distance and after 1.5 miles cross the River Hodder. Look to your right, spanning the river adjacent to the road bridge is Cromwell’s Bridge. It is named after Oliver Cromwell who marched his Roundheads across on their way to fight the Cavaliers at the Battle of Preston in 1648.
From here, head through Withgill and at the crossroads just after head straight across until the lane reaches its conclusion. Turn left (signposted Trough of Bowland) and follow the road as it ascends through Bashall Eaves and Cow Ark. The signpost for Whitewell in Cow Ark signals the summit of the ride and its largely all downhill from this point. Continue on past the turn-off and follow signposts for Chipping as you descend gradually.
When you reach Chipping village centre head between the Sun Inn and St Bartholomew’s Church to reach a must visit spot for any cyclist. The Cobbled Corner Café is a favoured haunt of tired cyclists and walkers alike.
Treat yourself to some well-deserved refreshment before heading back to the Sun Inn for the last leg of the journey back to the start. Turn right onto Windy Street (which becomes Longridge Road) and follow the well-signposted route back to the starting point in Longridge town centre.
Map and further details, visit: blog.ribblecycles.co.uk/ribble-rides-longridge-fell-loop
Do you fancy joining us on a Ribble Cycles ride out? Give us a call or visit: ribblecycles.co.uk to find out more?
