The Routes

The 2026 edition of the Ribble Valley Ride incorporates three new routes: 25, 50 and 70 miles.


All three routes explore the stunning and scenic Bowland area of Lancashire, which is designated as 'National Landscape' .


All of the 2026 rides are on new routes with refreshment breaks strategically placed, and will once again, provide the much acclaimed choice of refreshments to include vegetarian and gluten-free options for those who have declared their choice on the entry form.


All three routes pass through charming little villages and provide spectacular views.


We can’t promise good weather, but we can guarantee three great routes, good fun and the usual much acclaimed food stops. What’s stopping you? Get it booked now and secure your place.   


What you need to know:


  • All routes are on public roads and pass through beautiful countryside and charming villages.
  • Food stops and toilet facilities are located on route.
  • All three routes will be fully signposted from start to finish
  • The general rule is to stay on the road you’re on, without turning off, unless our signs instruct you otherwise.
  • Our signs will be clearly marked ‘RIBBLE VALLEY RIDE’
  • It remains your responsibility to follow the correct route
  • Thanks to our sponsors' generous support, chip timing and full classified results will be available to all riders.
  • The ride is non-competitive and if cyclists wish to shorten (or lengthen) their ride, then they have ample opportunity to do so. 
  • All registered entrants who participate in the event on the day will be entered into a prize draw to win one of three £1,000 prize vouchers (one for each distance) provided by Ribble.


  • Start & Finish: Heidelberg Materials, Ribblesdale Works, West Bradford Road, Clitheroe, BB7 4QF

Start times will be:

70 Miles  0730 - 0830 

50 Miles 0815 - 0915 

 25 Miles 0900 - 0945 


25 mile route

Enthusiast

Entry fee: £25

The 25-mile route is gentler in terms of topography and suitable for most riders of moderate ability and for those who would like a more social type of ride.

This is a family-friendly route, with up to two under-16s allowed FREE with every two adult entries.

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50 mile route

Expert

Entry fee: £30

This challenging 50 mile route, intended for experienced mid-level riders, explores the eastern edges of the Forest of Bowland, climbing to the summit of Bowland Knotts at 422 metres, which forms the border between Lancashire and North Yorkshire. Stop a while to admire the views over the 3 peaks of Yorkshire before looping back into the Red Rose County as you make your way to the second refreshment stop before finishing the ride.

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70 mile route

Elite

Entry fee: £35

A demanding route for the seasoned and fitter riders, through stunning scenery, which initially takes the rider over to the west of the Ribble Valley to warm up the legs and visit the first feed station before swinging east into some bigger hills, and the second refreshment stop. This section will culminate in the climb to the top of Bowland Knotts for the view to ‘die for’ and then a great descent into North Yorkshire. After a loop of around 10 miles, the rider will head back into Lancashire via one of the favourite cycling routes in the area and on to the third refreshment stop and the return to the finish.

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