THE Trans Pennine Trail, which passes through Warrington, has been voted the UK’s favourite long distance National Cycle Network route by charity, Sustrans.
It was voted the best for its exciting route that links the North and Irish seas, passing through the Pennines and through some of the most historic towns and cities of the North of England.
Rangers from Warrington Borough Council manage the 11.5 mile-long stretch through the borough and host a range of events on the trail and across borough throughout the year.
Cllr Hans Mundry, the council’s lead member for highways, transportation and public realm, said: “I am delighted to see that the Trans Pennine Trail has received national recognition which is helping to put Warrington on the map. In the last year alone, we welcomed more than 117,000 visits to the trail in Warrington and had an estimated visitor spend of more than £500K,000.
“Visitors enjoy the scenic views, Warrington’s best-loved parks, trails and rights of way in a free, safe and pleasant environment. The trail is suitable for people of all ages and abilities and helps improve air quality and reduce congestion. With the Ranger Service set to launch more events and activities along the route in 2016, the Trans Pennine Trail
offers something for everyone.”
The trail which runs coast-to-coast between Southport and Hornsea, is 215 miles (346Km) long. A north-south route connecting Leeds and Chesterfield, a spur to York and a spur to Kirkburton means there are approximately 370 miles (595 km) of Trans Pennine Trail available to explore.
The route is mapped and signed all the way, mainly traffic free and surprisingly level considering the dramatic scenery along the way. Easy gradients and surfaced paths make many sections suitable for families, gentle exercise and people using wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Sustrans ran the vote as part of celebrations to mark 20 years since the network was developed by the charity.
For more information on the trail contact the Rangers on 01925 758195 or visit www.warrington.gov.uk/homepage/431/trans_pennine_trail
The Trans Pennine Trail at Fiddler's Ferry
Here in Warrington – the UK’s favourite cycle route
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Some seats along the way would be a boon to elderly walkers: the stretch from Fiddlers Ferry Inn past the power station and onwards is bereft of anywhere to rest- other than the thin gas signs hard against the SSE wire mesh fence. A way off the trail is needed too- my friend and I had to give up and return to the Inn area as the long walk with nowhere to rest was too arduous for him. Perhaps we were over-ambitious and it was a very warm day…