Top 10 Best Bike Rental Services in Burnley

Cycling in and Around Burnley

Burnley offers some of the most varied cycling in the North of England. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal towpath provides flat, traffic-free riding through the heart of the town, passing the historic Weavers' Triangle and the famous Straight Mile embankment. Beyond the town, the Brun Valley Forest Park, the Mary Towneley Loop and the Pennine Bridleway deliver thrilling off-road routes, while the lanes around Pendle Hill and the Ribble Valley are a road cyclist's dream.

Not everyone owns a bike suited to every type of riding, which is where rental services come in. Hiring a bike lets visitors explore without transporting their own, and gives locals a chance to try e-bikes or mountain bikes before buying.

What to Look for in a Bike Rental Service

Check the range and condition of bikes available, including sizes, e-bikes and child seats or trailers. Ask whether helmets, locks and repair kits are included, and whether the provider can recommend routes. Flexible hire periods, fair pricing and clear damage policies are also important. For adaptive cycling, look for providers offering specialist equipment.

The Top 10 Bike Rental Services for Burnley Riders

1. Pedal Power

Based in Clitheroe, Pedal Power is a well-known Ribble Valley cycle shop offering bike hire, including e-bikes. Its knowledgeable staff can recommend routes through the Forest of Bowland and around Pendle Hill.

2. Ribble Valley E-Bikes

Ribble Valley E-Bikes specialises in electric bike hire, making the hilly Lancashire countryside accessible to riders of all fitness levels. Guided rides and route suggestions help visitors make the most of the landscape.

3. Gisburn Forest Bike Hire

Gisburn Forest, in the Forest of Bowland, is Lancashire's largest forest and home to purpose-built mountain bike trails. Bike hire at the forest hub allows riders to tackle graded trails without bringing their own equipment.

4. Blazing Saddles

Blazing Saddles in Hebden Bridge is a popular cycle shop serving riders in the South Pennines. With Hebden Bridge just a short train ride from Burnley, it is a convenient option for exploring Calderdale's valleys and moorland climbs.

5. Brompton Bike Hire

Brompton Bike Hire operates docks at locations including major railway stations such as Manchester Piccadilly. Its folding bikes are perfect for combining train travel from Burnley with city cycling.

6. Starling Bank Bikes on the Bee Network

Greater Manchester's public cycle hire scheme, part of the Bee Network, offers pedal and electric bikes across the city region. Burnley residents travelling into Manchester can use it for quick, affordable trips.

7. Cycling Projects and Wheels for All

Cycling Projects is a Lancashire-based charity whose Wheels for All programme provides adapted bikes, trikes and handcycles for people with disabilities. Its inclusive sessions make cycling accessible to everyone.

8. Burnley Bike Shops With Hire and Demo Bikes

Several independent cycle shops in Burnley and Pendle offer short-term hire or demo bikes, particularly for mountain bikes and e-bikes. Asking locally is a great way to find affordable options and expert advice.

9. Pennine Bridleway E-Bike Tour Operators

A number of guided tour providers run e-bike experiences along sections of the Pennine Bridleway and the Mary Towneley Loop. Guided tours include bikes, helmets and local knowledge, ideal for first-time visitors.

10. Lake District and Yorkshire Dales Hire Centres

For riders planning a longer trip, hire centres in the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District are within easy driving distance of Burnley. They offer extensive fleets and access to some of the UK's most iconic cycling routes.

Best Routes to Ride Around Burnley

The Leeds and Liverpool Canal is ideal for families and beginners, offering flat, scenic riding with historic mills and wildlife. The Brun Valley Forest Park links green spaces across the town, including Towneley Park. More experienced riders can tackle the Mary Towneley Loop, a challenging circular route of around forty-seven miles on the Pennine Bridleway. Road cyclists love the climbs of Pendle Hill and the quiet lanes of the Ribble Valley.

Cycling Trends in Lancashire

E-bikes have transformed cycling in hilly areas like Burnley, allowing riders of all ages to enjoy longer routes and steep climbs. Investment in cycle infrastructure, including improved towpaths and dedicated lanes, is encouraging more people to cycle for commuting and leisure. Adaptive cycling and inclusive programmes are also growing, helping more people experience the benefits of riding.

Tips for Renting a Bike

Book ahead during weekends and school holidays, as e-bikes in particular are in high demand. Check the weather forecast, as moorland conditions can change quickly. Carry water, snacks and a waterproof layer, and plan your route with realistic distances and climbs. Always wear a helmet and follow the Countryside Code when riding on bridleways and trails.

Final Thoughts

From gentle canal rides to challenging Pennine trails, Burnley and its surroundings offer something for every cyclist. The rental services above make it easy to get on a bike, whether you are a visitor, a beginner or an experienced rider trying something new. Hire a bike, pick a route and discover the landscapes that make this corner of Lancashire so special.