Let’s Take a Ride…
Now is the time to get outdoors and get on your bike and enjoy some of the fantastic scenery that Lancashire has to offer
Lytham to St Annes Pier
Distance: 7.2 miles
Elevation Change: 93ft
Difficulty Rating: 1 out of 5
Map and details visit: https://blog.ribblecycles.co.uk/ribble-rides-fylde-coast/
Here at Ribble Cycles we love a bike ride, no matter how long or short it may be. This particular ride is one for all of the family, it’s mainly traffic free for the duration and suits riders of all ages and abilities.
It covers a section of Sustrans route 62 which itself forms part of the West Pennine Trail, connecting Fleetwood and Selby in North Yorkshire and ultimately the west and east coasts of England (the coast to coast).
The route is a simple out and back, from Lytham, through Fairhaven to St Annes Pier. Starting at the east end of Lytham promenade the route follows the mouth of the Ribble estuary. On a good day Southport is in view across the estuary just a mere seven miles distance (nearly 30 by road).
You will immediately encounter the attractions of the Lytham Windmill and RNLI lifeboat house. This museum is often described as a tardis for it looks much larger inside with four floors dedicated to the history of milling, shrimping and the Lytham lifeboat. Continue on (or pop in, it’s free) until the path meets the inner promenade roadway that connects Lytham and St Annes.
A short section of pathway takes you to Fairhaven Lake which can trace its origins back to the latter stages of the reign of Queen Victoria. It’s an ideal place to stop for some peace and tranquillity as well as a spot of wildlife watching. Amongst its attractions, the lake boasts a café, RSPB discovery centre and boating.
From here it is a short ride along the inner promenade to Fairhaven Road car park. Hook a left, head into the car park, then turn right and head for the beach café. Look for the path to the right of the café’s entrance and follow this all the way down to St Annes Pier. Grab some refreshment in St Annes or head back to Lytham where there’s a large selection of eating places along the main street to choose from.
Do you fancy joining us on a Ribble Cycles ride out? Give us a call, or visit: ribblecycles.co.uk to find out more
