The Hodder Valley is our home patch – our Dunsop Bridge base sits right in the middle of it – and it remains one of the most underrated stretches of countryside in Lancashire for cycling. Gentle riverside lanes, working farms and a scattering of excellent pubs make it a perfect introduction to e-bike riding in the Ribble Valley and Forest of Bowland.
Getting Your Bearings
The River Hodder runs roughly south-east from its source on the Bowland fells, through Dunsop Bridge, Newton and Whitewell, before joining the River Ribble near Hurst Green. Much of its length is shadowed by quiet minor roads that see very little traffic, making it ideal for families and less confident cyclists as well as those wanting a faster-paced ride.
A Gentle Loop for Families
From Dunsop Bridge, head south along the valley road towards Newton, keeping the river on your right. This stretch is largely flat to gently rolling and passes through classic Bowland scenery – drystone walls, sheep pasture and glimpses of the fells beyond. Turn back at Newton for a round trip of around 8 miles, or continue on to Whitewell for a longer day with a stop at The Inn at Whitewell for lunch.
For Those Wanting More of a Challenge
Branch off the valley floor in either direction and you’ll quickly find yourself climbing towards the surrounding fells – Whitewell Woods to the south-west offer a proper test of the e-bike’s assistance modes, while the road towards Slaidburn to the north gives you rolling hills and some of the finest views in the valley.
Wildlife on the River
The Hodder is one of the best rivers in Lancashire for spotting kingfishers, and dippers are a common sight bobbing on rocks in the shallower stretches. Herons are almost guaranteed, and if you’re out early or late in the day, keep an eye on the woodland edges for roe deer.
Where to Stop
Beyond Puddleducks Tea Room in Dunsop Bridge itself, both The Inn at Whitewell and The Parkers Arms in Newton are well worth planning your ride around – both are award-winning and firm favourites with cyclists refuelling mid-ride.
Hiring From the Valley Itself
Because our hire base is right in Dunsop Bridge, you can be pedalling along the Hodder within minutes of picking up your bike – no need to drive to a trailhead or load bikes onto a car. It’s one of the simplest, most scenic rides we offer, and a great way to get a feel for an e-bike before tackling some of the tougher climbs further into the Forest of Bowland.
Ready to explore the Hodder Valley for yourself? Check our hire prices or contact us to arrange your visit.