The Crosby Beach Ride is a popular cycling route that takes riders along the stunning Liverpool waterfront, offering breathtaking views of the city’s iconic landmarks and the picturesque Crosby Beach. This 32.5-mile journey is a must-try for cycling enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience.
The Crosby Beach Ride: An Overview
The Crosby Beach Ride is a circular route that starts and ends in Liverpool, following the city’s waterfront and leading cyclists to the renowned Crosby Beach. The ride covers a total distance of 32.5 miles and features an elevation gain of 3,058 feet, making it a challenging yet exhilarating experience for riders.
Route Highlights
- Liverpool Waterfront: The ride begins by following the Liverpool waterfront, offering stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Royal Liver Building, the Pier Head, and the Albert Dock.
- Port of Liverpool: As you ride along the waterfront, you’ll pass by the bustling Port of Liverpool, one of the UK’s largest and busiest ports.
- Burbo Bank Offshore Wind Farm: The route takes you past the Burbo Bank offshore wind farm, a impressive sight with its towering wind turbines.
- Crosby Beach: The highlight of the ride is the stunning Crosby Beach, known for its unique coastal landscape and the iconic “Another Place” installation by artist Antony Gormley.
Accessibility and Facilities
The Crosby Beach Ride is easily accessible by public transportation, with the Blundellsands and Crosby Merseyrail station being the closest to the beach entrance. Alternatively, the Waterloo station offers a short stroll to the Crosby Coastal Park, where visitors can explore the Victorian gardens, playground facilities, and Marine Lake.
It’s important to note that Crosby Beach is not a bathing beach, and visitors should stay out of the sea and within 50 meters of the promenade at all tides. The beach is permanently red-flagged, and the RNLI lifeguard service is present 365 days a year to ensure the safety of visitors.
Preparing for the Crosby Beach Ride
Before embarking on the Crosby Beach Ride, it’s essential to ensure that you are well-prepared for the journey. Here are some tips to help you get ready:
Bike Maintenance
Ensure that your bike is in good working condition, with properly inflated tires, functioning brakes, and a well-lubricated chain. Consider taking your bike for a tune-up before the ride to avoid any unexpected mechanical issues.
Riding Gear
Wear appropriate cycling gear, including a helmet, cycling shorts, and a breathable jersey. Bring layers of clothing to accommodate changes in weather conditions, and don’t forget to pack a water bottle and snacks to fuel your ride.
Route Planning
Familiarize yourself with the route beforehand, either by studying a map or using a cycling app like Strava or Komoot. This will help you plan your ride and identify any potential challenges or points of interest along the way.
Safety Considerations
Ride responsibly and follow all traffic rules and regulations. Be aware of your surroundings and be prepared to share the road with other cyclists, pedestrians, and vehicles. Consider bringing a bike lock and a repair kit in case of any mechanical issues.
Exploring Crosby Beach
The highlight of the Crosby Beach Ride is, of course, the stunning Crosby Beach. This unique coastal landscape is home to the “Another Place” installation by renowned artist Antony Gormley, which features 100 cast-iron figures stretching along the coastline and out into the sea.
“Another Place” Installation
The “Another Place” installation is a captivating and thought-provoking work of art that has become a major attraction for visitors to Crosby Beach. The cast-iron figures, each standing 6 feet tall, are spread out along the beach, creating a powerful and evocative visual experience.
Coastal Landscape
Crosby Beach is not a typical sandy beach, but rather a unique coastal landscape that combines industrial and artistic elements. The beach is characterized by a mix of sand, pebbles, and rocky outcroppings, creating a rugged and visually striking environment.
Recreational Activities
While Crosby Beach is not suitable for swimming due to the permanent red flag, visitors can still enjoy a variety of recreational activities, such as walking, running, and birdwatching. The Crosby Coastal Park, located nearby, offers additional amenities, including Victorian gardens, playground facilities, and the Marine Lake.
Conclusion
The Crosby Beach Ride is a must-try for cycling enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers looking to explore the stunning coastal landscapes of Liverpool. With its challenging terrain, breathtaking views, and the iconic “Another Place” installation, this ride offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a newcomer to the sport, the Crosby Beach Ride is sure to leave a lasting impression.
References:
– Crosby Beach Ride on YouTube
– Crosby Beach Ride on AllTrails
– Crosby Beach Ride on RideWithGPS
– Crosby Beach on TripAdvisor
– Crosby Beach on Sefton Council Website