Witton our way to Ossy and Back

Prepared to be amazed at the variety of terrain riders will encounter on this 24 mile loop. Starting in the scenic surroundings of Witton Park, we will depart the grounds and immediately join a designated cycle route across to the Leeds Liverpool Canal. Heading Eastwards we will follow towpath to Whitebirk and beyond. Riders will leave the waterway at West End to start climbing up through Oswaldtwistle, using a combination of quiet backstreets, urban bridleways and country lanes. After conquering the one and only col of the ride atop Gaulkthorn, approximately half way round, cyclists venture across a short section of moor, using packhorse type trails, culminating in a fun descent onto an old, well kept, disused railway cycle route. It's gradual downhill all the way,via this hidden green way of Hyndburn, eventually bringing riders back to the centre of Oswaldtwistle. After a crossing the landlocked Old Causeway curio, riders use well marked cycle routes to head back to the canal, where they join the towpath and head back to the starting point.

This is a "challenge" graded ride - due to the length of the ride it is recommended that riders are age 11+ and have experience of riding on and off road for the distance outlined. Under 16s must be accompanied by a responsible adult and must be dressed appropriately for the weather conditions. Riders must carry a waterproof jacket, spare inner tube that fits their bike, snacks and drink. If riders have a health condition that may require self-medication during the ride, they are expected to bring their medications and are strongly advised to inform the ride leader, in confidence.

MTBs, Cyclocross, knobbly-tyred hybrids suitable.