Velo1750: Preston Guild Wheel

The Guild Wheel is a 22 mile walking and cycling route, encircling Preston. It offers varied views and takes in beautiful countryside including Brockholes Nature Reserve and fabulous stretches along the River Ribble.

We are taking the clockwise direction, and so the short, rougher, steep section is downhill and on the homeward stretch. It’s easy to walk the steep bit, if preferred. The whole route is mainly off-road, along tracks and shared paths, is fairly flat, with good surfaces, and is very well sign-posted.

We’re starting from Brockholes Nature Reserve where there are toilets and a cafe. Entry to the Reserve is free, but there is a £5 charge for all day parking. If you wish to avoid the parking charge it may be possible to park nearby and cycle into Brockholes. Brockholes is based on the site of an old quarry, and is owned and managed by the Lancashire Wildlife Trust. Their parking charge helps support the work of the Trust.

Directions by car:
As you exit the M6 Motorway(heading north), get in the middle lane. At the roundabout turn right, signed A59 to Blackburn. Stay in the left hand lane. Just before the traffic lights, take the FIRST exit signed “Brockholes Nature Reserve” heading north over the river.

As always, do check that your bike is in good working order. Please bring at least one spare inner tube in case you get a puncture, plus puncture patches.

Don’t forget water to drink, appropriate clothes for the weather, and your helmet. If the weather is looking poor, we may postpone the ride till a better day.

We’ll stop for lunch midway at a café or pub around Cottam, but feel free to bring a packed lunch instead.
Susan