12 Cheshire Cycle Routes to Explore in 2023

Cheshire is a beautiful county in north west England, known for its stunning countryside and picturesque villages.

It's also a fantastic destination for cyclists, offering a range of cycling routes that showcase the region's natural beauty.

In this guide, we will highlight the top cycling routes in Cheshire that offer the best experience for riders of all levels.

Top Cycle Routes in Cheshire

Cheshire Cycleway

From flat routes to challenging hills for the energetic, tarmac to towpaths, and miles of woodland and picturesque pastures, whatever you prefer, the Cheshire Cycleway has it all.

This 176 mile signposted cycling route offers everything the Cheshire countryside has to offer, with a near endless choice of start and end points and a variety of terrain and scenery making this route an enjoyable choice for all ages and cycling abilities.

If you're looking for touring holidays, short breaks and weekends in Cheshire, the Cheshire Cycleway is a must-see.

The Middlewood Way

The Middlewood Way follows a disused railway trail transformed for recreational use. This cycle route runs 10 miles from Marple to Macclesfield, sitting parallel to the Peak District offering some spectacular scenery.

Passing Poynton, Bollington and the hills of Pott Shrigley, the Middlewood Way passes through beautiful countryside in between picturesque towns.

The Whitegate Way and Weaver Parkway

The Whitegate Way and Weaver Parkway are traffic-free sections of the National Cycle Network.

The Whitegate line was once used to transport salt from the mines and works along the west bank of the river Weaver from 1870 until 1966. Today, the Whitegate Way is managed for the benefit of wildlife and visitors, and the Weaver Parkway offers an extensive area of open green space along the River Weaver. The Parkway is rich in history and provides a perfect opportunity to explore and cycle along hidden parts of the Cheshire countryside.

The Biddulph Valley Way

Once used to carry coal from the Potteries to Congleton for over a century, today the tranquil and blooming Biddulph Valley Way is enjoyed by walkers, cyclists, horse riders and a variety of wildlife.

This is a delightful traffic-free route suitable for all abilities, taking 30 minutes end to end and guiding you through some stunning examples of Cheshire countryside.

Bollin Valley Cycle Trail

Launched to celebrate National Bike Week in 2012, this 24 mile cycle route was designed and tested by volunteers from the Bollin Valley Cycle Group with assistance from the Bollin Valley Partnership. The Bollin Valley Cycle Trail follows the course of River Bollin from its source in Macclesfield Forest to where it joins the Manchester Ship Canal near Partington.

Using country roads for most of the journey, this cycle route is more suitable for experienced cyclists, but it also joins a section of the Trans Pennine Trail which is perfect for families. The route can be cycled one way, catching the train back, or by using one of two return routes. Alternatively, cyclists can ride sections of the route between railway stations.

Beeston Castle loop from Nantwich

The Beeston Castle loop from Nantwich is a picturesque cycle route through the Cheshire plains, with stunning waypoints such as the dramatic Beeston Castle and the tranquil Nantwich Lake.

This is a mostly well paved route with some steep climbs, and we recommend stopping by the castle to take in the incredible panoramic view at the top. Be sure to treat yourself to a rest at Nantwich Lake and reward yourself at the end of it all with a coffee and cake at the Boathouse Cafe Bar in Tattenhall.

Macclesfield to Congleton

The lovely Macclesfield to Congleton cycle route follows along part of the Cheshire Cycleway, on country roads with views of the Macclesfield Canal and the River Dane as you go.

This is a perfect choice for cyclists looking for some attractive countryside scenery. Along the way you'll also pass the impressive Gawsworth New Hall, Redesmere and Astbury Mere Country Park.

Neston Circular

The Neston Circular cycle route guides you through some great examples of Cheshire countryside scenery, including the Wirral Way, the RSPB Burton Mere Wetlands, and Burton Manor with its Walled Garden. On your return towards Neston you'll find noticeboards all about Neston's extensive coal mining history.

This route passes through Hadlow Road old station in Willaston, preserved as it was in 1956, where there are public toilets available.

Cheter to Frodsham

This fairly easy route from Chester to Frodsham starts by Chester Railway Station, before joining the Shropshire Union Canal towpath for some scenic waterside cycling. You'll then pass through the outskirts of Chester by road, before coming to the impressive Chester Zoo which is well worth a visit and it's easy enough to spend the entire day here. Shortly after passing the zoo, you'll rejoin the canal which takes you onto Little Stanley.

The route then turns east towards Elton and Ince where you join a traffic-free section which runs parallel to the Manchester Ship Canal. This will guide you into Frodsham where the route finishes on Frodsham bridge.

Knutsford to Macclesfield

The Knutsford to Macclesfield cycling route follows quiet country lanes and joins part of the Cheshire Cycleway, before a pleasant off-road stretch along the Middlewood Way which takes you into Macclesfield.

Along this route, you will pass the Macclesfield Canal and the picturesque town of Bollington, while in Knutsford you can carry on enjoying miles of popular cycling trails at Tatton Park, where cycle hire is also available.

Tegg's Nose Country Park

This regional cycle route from Tegg's Nose to Parkgate takes you through a great choice of attractive waypoints, including the Macclesfield Canal, Little Budworth and the Wirral Country Park. You can even take a slight detour to see the dramatic Tudor-era Gawsworth Hall.

The route can be followed in reverse, but just remember to expect a steep climb from Fool's Nook towards Tegg's Nose Country Park.

Wizard Trail

The lovely Wizard Trail route makes the perfect afternoon cycle, taking you through some of Cheshire's most attractive countryside.

Starting from Alderley Edge, highlights on the trail include the Wizard's Well, the 15th century Alderley Mill and National Trust owned Hare Hill. You can also expect some beautiful scenery along Windmill Wood.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where to stay in Chester

Floating Glamping Pods at Tattenhall Marina

If you're looking to truly appreciate the Cheshire countryside with easy access to your favourite Cheshire cycle routes, without sacrificing luxury, make the most of a long weekend or midweek break with a tranquil glamping getaway at Tattenhall Marina.

These luxury floating pods include all your home comforts, from a double bed and pull out sofa bed to a fully equipped kitchenette and bathroom.

You can enjoy the tranquil countryside, on the edge of the Shropshire Union Canal with a view over to Beeston Castle from your glass-fronted pod, all while enjoying a comfortable stay with everything you could need.

Find out more about the luxury floating pods at Tattenhall Marina.