Liverpool isn’t just a city steeped in history, music, and architecture—it’s also a dream for anyone who enjoys life on two wheels. Whether you're cycling solo, with a partner, or alongside a trail of excited kids, the city’s network of cycling routes has something for everyone. And with more riders turning to electric bikes, Liverpool's flat terrain and growing green corridors make it the perfect place to explore effortlessly.

In this guide, we’ll take you through the best cycling routes in Liverpool, ideal for families, couples, and leisurely weekend rides. From traffic-free trails to coastal adventures, these routes are made for discovery—and even better with the right wheels from partners like Little Gliders, who offer curated electric bikes and kids' gear to help you get the most out of every ride.

Why Cycle in Liverpool?

Flat, Scenic, and Surprisingly Peaceful

Liverpool is relatively flat, especially compared to other northern cities. That makes it ideal for children, older riders, and anyone who might need a bit of pedal assist—yes, we're looking at you, e-bike enthusiasts.

The routes here aren’t just convenient—they’re beautiful. You’ll pedal past historic docks, alongside riverside paths, through wildflower meadows, and along leafy corridors that feel far removed from the city noise.

Perfect for E-Bikes and Young Cyclists

Electric bikes are becoming the go-to option for urban cyclists who want to go further, faster, and with less effort. Whether you're carrying a child seat or just cruising with your partner, an e-bike takes the pressure off hills, headwinds, and long distances.

And when it comes to children's bikes, the right gear can make all the difference. Little Gliders, a family-focused cycle store, offers a carefully chosen range of bikes, helmets, and accessories—making your Liverpool cycling trip safer and more enjoyable.

Top 10 Cycling Routes in Liverpool (and What to Expect)

We’ve compiled this list using insights from Komoot, Sustrans, British Cycling, and Bikemap—each offering hundreds of routes explored and rated by real riders. Here's our pick of the most scenic, family-friendly, and electric-bike-ready routes across Liverpool.

1. The Liverpool Loop Line – A Woodland Wonder

Distance: 10.8 miles | Time: 1–3 hours | Difficulty: Easy

Perfect for: Beginners, families, e-bike riders
Surface: 99% paved, 93% traffic-free

Part of the National Cycle Network Route 62, this converted railway line is a dream come true for cyclists. Flat, peaceful, and surrounded by trees, it winds through east Liverpool with access points at Broad Green, Rice Lane, and Hunts Cross. Originally abandoned in 1964 and revived by Sustrans, it's now one of the most beloved trails in the region.

🔋 Why it's great for e-bikes: The gentle elevation means you’ll enjoy effortless cruising and long battery life.
👨👩👧 Family tip: Let the kids spot birds, wildflowers, and squirrels along the way. Balance bikes and starter pedal bikes work a treat here.

2. Otterspool Promenade to Speke Hall (Tour de Liverpool)

Distance: 24 miles | Time: 3–5 hours | Difficulty: Moderate

Perfect for: Couples, e-bikes, older kids
Surface: Mixed terrain with mostly off-road paths

Starting at the riverside Otterspool Café, this route loops past Festival Gardens, the Albert Docks, and iconic landmarks like Liverpool Cathedral and Sefton Park. The finale? A stop at Speke Hall, a Tudor mansion with National Trust tea rooms.

🔋 Why it's great for e-bikes: Those longer miles melt away when you're gliding with pedal assist.
🧁 Refuel stop: Try the scones and tea at Speke Hall before heading back.

3. Crosby Coast & Curlew Route

Distance: 16.5 km | Time: 1.5–2 hours | Difficulty: Easy

Perfect for: Families, wildlife lovers
Surface: Coastal paths

If you’re craving sea air, this ride along the Crosby coastline is a must. You’ll spot the famous Antony Gormley statues, explore sand dunes, and enjoy wide views across the Irish Sea.

🔋 Why it's great for e-bikes: The path can get breezy—an electric motor helps you cruise against the wind.
📸 Don't miss: Snap a selfie with one of the iron men looking out to sea.

4. Sefton Park Circular

Distance: 16.2 km | Time: 1 hour | Difficulty: Easy

Perfect for: Toddlers, picnics, new riders
Surface: Paved

A relaxed park ride around one of Liverpool’s most beautiful green spaces. Flat, scenic, and filled with playgrounds, ponds, and Victorian glasshouses, Sefton Park is brilliant for gentle family cycling.

🧺 Bring a picnic, ride a few laps, then settle in for lunch under the trees.
🚲 Try this on a Little Gliders Gingersnap Balance Bike—perfect for park outings.

5. Calderstones Park Loop

Distance: 4 miles | Time: 1.5 hours | Difficulty: Very Easy

Perfect for: Young children, beginner balance bikers
Surface: Park paths

This is a short loop, ideal for toddlers gaining confidence. Calderstones Park offers plenty of space to stop, play, and explore.

🦆 Look for: Ducks in the pond and sculptures dotted around the gardens.
🎈 Low pressure fun: No need to complete the loop—just let the kids ride and roam.

6. Pier Head to Liverpool Loop Line (via Cressington)

Distance: 29 miles | Time: 3–4 hours | Difficulty: Intermediate

Perfect for: Confident e-bike riders, couples
Surface: Mostly paved

A scenic ride that connects the bustling city centre with the wooded serenity of the Loop Line. Ride past the Royal Liver Building, explore parks and canals, and loop back via quiet paths.

🎯 Use Komoot’s route planner to follow this loop with GPS precision.
⚡ E-bike highlight: This is where pedal assist really helps you go the distance.

7. Childwall Abbey Loop from Edge Hill

Distance: 36 miles | Time: 3.5 hours | Difficulty: Intermediate

Perfect for: Weekend warriors, group rides
Surface: Road & park paths

One of the longer loops for cyclists wanting a full day out. Ideal for e-bikes with range, this loop showcases leafy suburbs, parks, and quiet stretches of road.

🗺️ Check Bikemap for community feedback and optional route tweaks.

8. Everton Park & The Mersey

Distance: Short loop | Time: 30 mins–1 hour | Difficulty: Very Easy

Perfect for: Toddlers, first-time riders
Surface: Park terrain

A perfect "my first bike ride" kind of route, this loop through Everton Park is short, scenic, and beginner-friendly. The views across Liverpool are a treat on a clear day.

🌇 Best at sunset: Bring snacks and enjoy the golden glow over the city.

9. Thurstaston to West Kirby

Distance: Variable | Time: 1–2 hours | Difficulty: Easy

Perfect for: Beachside day trips
Surface: Coastal and light off-road

Hire a bike from West Kirby Station or bring your own. This route is known for open air, sea views, and gentle gradients.

🚲 Bring a hybrid e-bike or something with wider tyres for comfort on mixed surfaces.

10. The Butterfly Route (Ainsdale Dunes)

Distance: Varies | Time: 2–3 hours | Difficulty: Moderate

Perfect for: Nature-loving families
Surface: Off-road trail

One of the most scenic off-road options. Ride through the Ainsdale Sand Dunes Nature Reserve, where you might spot butterflies, lizards, and rare birds.

🏞️ Recommended gear: Mountain or off-road e-bikes.
🐾 Tip: Check trail conditions before setting off—especially after rain.

🛒 Gear Up for Adventure with Glide & Gear

Exploring Liverpool’s best bike routes is easier and safer when you’ve got the right equipment. That’s where Little Gliders steps in. Their handpicked collection of electric bikes, and family-friendly accessories is built for comfort, safety, and style.

Why shop at Little Gliders?

• 🚴 E-bikes for parents who want to go further with less effort
• 🚼 Balance bikes and pedal bikes sized perfectly for growing riders
• 🛡️ Helmets, lights, locks, and everything in between
• 📦 Convenient online ordering with UK-wide delivery

Visit Glide & Gear to get started. Need a ride for the little one? Check out our partner store at Little Gliders. 

🧭 Planning Tips Before You Go

• ✅ Use Komoot or Bikemap to map your route and download it offline
• 🧃 Pack water, snacks, and waterproofs (just in case)
• 🧑🔧 Check tyre pressure and e-bike charge before setting off
• 🚏 Look for public transport links—many routes are close to Merseyrail stations
• 👨👩👧 Explore with others—Liverpool’s cycling community is welcoming and growing

Ready to Ride?

From peaceful parks to buzzing waterfronts, Liverpool offers cycling routes that feel like a holiday, even if you're close to home. Whether you're cruising on an electric bike, riding tandem with your partner, or guiding your little one’s first balance bike adventure, this city has a path for you.

So pack a bag, charge up your e-bike, and head out to discover what makes cycling in Liverpool so special.

See you on the trail. 🚴♂️🌤️