Cycle routes - The Pennine Bridleway
Rochdale has more of the Pennine Bridleway than any other
Greater Manchester district, and there are local links to the
Pennine Bridleway from:
- Norden
- Spotland
- Healey
- Syke
- Smallbridge
- Wardle
- Shore
- Littleborough
- Calderbrook
- Summit
- Hollingworth Lake
- Milnrow and Newhey
It is well signposted, but maps are recommended. It has many
climbs and descents, and is not for absolute beginners, though
there are sections which are suitable for cyclists with limited off
road experience.
Summit, a mile to the north of Littleborough centre, is the
junction of two parts of the Pennine Bridleway, which is tennis
racquet shaped. The handle part is the southern route past Chelburn
Reservoir to Piethorne and beyond (all the way to Derbyshire). The
circular head part is the Mary Townley Loop.
From Summit the Loop goes via Watergrove , Whitworth, Healey
Dell, Rooley Moor, Rawtenstall, Holme Chapel (near Burnley), Widdop
Moor, Hebden Bridge, Mankinholes and back to Summit. The loop is 47
miles/75 km long, and has already attracted large numbers of
visiting horse riders and mountain bike riders.