- Distance Instructions
- Distance 45 miles
- Time 3 h 45 min
- Speed 12 mph
- Min altitude 10 ft
- Peak 299 ft
- Ascend 820 ft
- Descent 820 ft
This route avoided using the Croston to Mere Brow Cycle path which was closed until late September 2020 (though it is open now!). It is almost identical and slightly shorter than the "Chorley to Ainsdale Loop".
Leaving from Astley Park gates, Chorley PR7 1JU. Car Parking is conveniently located on Queens Road car park, PR7 1JU. This is next to the park gates. Turn right immediately after the park gates when entering Chorley from the Preston direction or M61 junction 8. Parking should be free after 5 p.m. and all day on Sunday.
There is an alternative free car park at Astley Hall on Hallgate PR7 1NP, which is on the other side of the park. You will pass through this on the way out and there are toilets which open at 9 a.m.
The route passes through Astley Park and Astley Village then via Back lane in Euxton to Eccleston, Mawdsley, Rufford and Tarlscough. The route then passes briefly through the grounds of Southport and Formby Hospital and the suburbs of Southport to Reach Birkdale. Return is via Halsall, some cycle paths through Ormskirk, Lathom, Bispham Green, Heskin and Charnock Richard to Chorley and Astley Park.
Total Distance is 45 miles and a fairly flat route.
