Owd Betts

This ride is for those who are confident cycling on the road and who are always looking for their next challenge. We head off through Harwood warming our legs up for the first climb that takes us through Holcombe Brook and down into the lovely market village of Ramsbottom to see the sculptured tilted vase.

From here we head over to Stubbins and take our next incline up and over the moors where the climbs are definitely worth the views over Rochdale, Oldham & Manchester. Nestled just below Knowl Hill is the 220-year-old pub “Owd Betts” that is said to be haunted by its former landlady Betty Ashworth. This is where will take our coffee break.

After the lovely countryside we continue into the small villages of Norden and Bamford return to negotiate the hustle and bustle of traffic through the towns of Heywood and Bury leading us back up to Harwood where we started.

Please ensure your bike is in good working condition. Check your gears and brakes at least the night before.
Although helmets are only recommended by law and not deemed to be essential, anyone not wearing a helmet will not be able to join the ride unfortunately.

Please bring your spare inner tubes, bike levers and pump (don’t worry about the latter if you don’t have one). A lock and some cash would be advisable for the coffee stop.

Due to Covid, It is essential that all ride participants’ carry their own PPE that is mask, hand gel and tissues. The leaders will carry first aid consumables but you will have to apply yourself. The same applies for any punctures or bike maintenance guidance will be offered at a safe distance.