Free-wheeling fun for all the family

Jul 22 2008 by Laura Davis, Liverpool Daily Post

In the first of our two-part guide to credit crunch-friendly school holidays, Laura Davis discovers some fun cycle routes through the region

SOMETIMES the oldies are still the goodies, and although the humble pushbike was invented more than 200 years ago, it still offers some of the best family entertainment at no cost at all.

If you already have bikes, then you can’t go wrong with a planned trip around the region – not only is it a cheap day out, but it is environmentally friendly and a good way to keep fit, too.

This summer, Merseytravel has launched a series of rides in Merseyside that all start at railway stations, so those taking part can leave the car at home.

“I’m sure there are lots of people who have bikes hidden away in the shed at home,” says Neil Scales, Merseytravel chief executive.

“Cycling is a great way for both children and adults to enjoy fresh air, fitness and fun, whether cycling is a leisure activity or simply an easy, practical and environmentally-friendly way to commute to work.

“The aim of the Summer Cycle campaign is to encourage those people to dust off the cobwebs and get back on their bikes.”

Organised rides take place every Sunday until September and are open to people of all ages and abilities.

They start at 2pm and last between one and three hours with a tea stop included. There is no need to book, just turn up on the day.

Visit www.LetsTravelWise.org/cycling to download a copy of the programme and to order free cycle maps, or call 0151 330 1253 for further information.

In the meantime, here are some routes that families can follow on their own.

RIDE 1 North Wirral Coaster

This ride offers great views across the Mersey to Liverpool’s historic waterfront. Starting at Seacombe Ferry Terminal, join the cycle path that runs up the promenade. Pass by Wallasey Town Hall and ride for two miles through to New Brighton, enjoying splendid views across the estuary.

Once in New Brighton, ride along Tower Promenade, passing Fort Perch Rock. Continue along the Coastal Path, sweeping around Leasowe Bay, eventually reaching Dove Point where you can cycle up to Meols Station. 9 miles. Allow 3 hours.

RIDE 2 Old Liverpool Loop Line

Begin your route at Halewood Triangle Country Park, where wildlife thrives in what was a major complex of railway sidings. Starting from Halewood Station, the disused railway offers several miles of traffic-free cycling through cuttings and along embankments to Rice Lane Station, with a diversion to Croxteth Country Park en route. 9 miles.

Allow 2 hours.

RIDE 3 Ainsdale Circular

The main feature of this circular ride is the rich “moss” farmland that you pass through. Starting from Ainsdale Station, access the Cheshire Lines Cycle Path, part of the Trans Pennine Trail. This takes you to the level landscape of Downholland Moss, where you are bound to see geese set to fly. 18 miles.

Allow 3 hours

RIDE 4 St Helens Lanes

It is hard to imagine that the peaceful countryside around Garswood and Rainford was once a major coal-mining centre during the Industrial Revolution. From Garswood Station, head down Garswood Road and pass through Billinge onto Rainford Road. Billinge Hill – the highest point in Merseyside and with a nature reserve on the top – is on your right.

Ride along Gores Lane, then Pimbo Lane, before looping back round through Rainford, along Crawford Road and Higher Lane. Take a break at one of the pubs en route before finishing up at Garswood Station.

Allow 3 hours.

TOMORROW: Fun family activities that won’t cost you a penny.

lauradavis@dailypost.co.uk