Ribble Rides - Fylde Coast is a short ride that is suitable for all of the family. This route takes in mainly off-road sections of the West Pennine Trail. Starting at the mouth of the Ribble estuary it follows the coastline a short distance to Lytham St Annes. Find out more below;
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. Because it is mainly traffic-free for most of its duration this ride suits riders of all ages and abilities. The route actually forms part of the West Pennine Trail which connects Fleetwood in the West with Selby in North Yorkshire. Its also forms part of Sustrans route 62.
- Distance - 7.2miles.
- Elevation – 93ft
- Difficulty – 1 out of 5
Image 1. A pair of Hybrid ALe electric hybrid bikes pass the Windmill and Lifeboat Museum at rides start.
The route is a simple out and back, from the Windmill at Lytham, via Fairhaven to St Anne’s Pier. Starting at the East end of Lytham promenade the route follows the mouth of the Ribble estuary. If visibility is good, the seaside town of Southport is in view across the estuary, just a mere 7-miles distant. To put it into context, the distance by road is nearly 30 miles! To the North across the wide expanse of Morecambe Bay are the distant slopes of the Lake District.
From the start you will immediately encounter the twin attractions of the Lytham Windmill and RNLI lifeboat house. This museum is often described as a ‘tardis’ for it looks much larger on the inside than from outside. With 4 floors dedicated to the history of milling, shrimping and of course the heroic endeavours of the Lytham lifeboat crews. Why not pop in because its free! Continue along the promenade until it meets the Inner Promenade roadway that connects Lytham and St Anne’s.
Image 2. A Ribble Hybrid AL e amidst the wonderful colour of a Lytham Greengrocers store.
A short section of pathway then 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 various attractions, the lake boasts a café, RSPB discovery centre and boating.
From here, it is a short jaunt along the Inner Promenade to Fairhaven Road car park. Hook a left to head into the car park, then turn right and head for the Beach Cafe. Look just to the right of the café's entrance to find the path that will lead you to St Anne's Pier. Stop for some refreshment in St Anne’s or head back to Lytham where there’s a large selection of Café’s along the main street to choose from.
Image 3. Every cyclist's Kryptonite, the café stop for a well-deserved coffee and cake.
Do you fancy joining us on a Ribble Cycles ride out? Give us a call or visit ribblecycles.co.uk to find out more.
Need some more inspiration for family-friendly rides? Why not try our Whalley to Leeds/Liverpool canal ride. A route littered with historical landmarks.
Or, do you fancy something a little more challenging? Why not try our Garstang to Beacon Fell ride?