Mill Dam to Otterspool via Liverpool Waterfront & Sefton Park

A route planned and plotted by group member Will, who will also navigate the ride. We set off from Mill Dam, Kirkby, heading out toward Aintree before joining the traffic-free Liverpool Loop Line, a great warm-up stretch. From there, we pass through Walton Hall Park and continue onto Queens Drive (much quieter on Sundays), transitioning from green space into more urban riding. Next, we head toward the dock road, where we will catch views of the impressive Hill Dickinson Stadium. Carry on toward the Liverpool waterfront and take in the iconic Pier Head and the Three Graces, arguably one of the most recognisable skylines in the UK. From there, it’s a nice spin down to Otterspool Promenade for a well-earned lunch stop with riverside views. Re-fuelled, we will head back via the former International Garden Festival site, then through the lively Lark Lane and into Sefton Park, a highlight of the ride with its sweeping paths and greenery, before continuing on to Strawberry Field where there is a little bit of a climb then through Gateacre, before rejoining the Loop Line. The final leg takes us up to Croxteth Country Park, then back to Mill Dam to complete the loop.

A 35 mile circular route from Mill Dam Kirkby through Aintree to the Liverpool Loop Line and on to Walton Hall Park and towards the Liverpool Waterfront via Regent Road (the "dock road"). After refreshment at Otterspool Promenade, we head for Sefton Park via the Liverpool Garden Festival site and Lark Lane and rejoin the the Liverpool Loop Line at Gateacre towards Croxteth Hall and Park and our start point at Mill Dam Park.

The ride is mostly on hard surfaced main roads and the parkland paths of Sefton, Walton Hall and Croxteth Parks and is suitable for hybrid bikes (fitted with road or off-road tyres), mountain bikes, road bikes (with care) and e-bikes.

Our refreshment break will be taken at The Otterspool Adventure Cafe on Otterspool Promenade, L17 5AL with great views overlooking the River Mersey

All riders will be required to wear a helmet and carry spare inner tubes and the means to be able to repair a puncture (assistance will be provided if required). Don't forget to bring some cash or a card to pay for your refreshments at Otterspool Adventure Park Cafe.

It is essential that everybody enjoys the ride so it will be at a gentle pace (average 9-11mph) but will be determined by the overall pace of the group. We are a sociable group and there will be plenty of opportunities to take in the views and perhaps take a photo or two. (It wouldn't be a CYCLE: St Helens group ride without the fun and photos!) Always remember, we will never leave anyone behind!