Traffic free cycling and walking routes

Salford has an extensive network of traffic free cycle routes which are perfect for leisure, enjoying the wildlife or even a traffic-free way of getting to work.

Many of the routes have been built using former railway lines (looplines) which have very gentle gradients making them ideal for cycling. Once on the network of looplines, it is possible to travel for miles through Salford and to neighbouring districts. The loopline network links Worsley Woods, the Bridgewater Canal and Blackleach Country Park and runs through Little Hulton, Walkden, Worsley, Monton and Eccles.

Routes have been upgraded over recent years including improved surfacing, new signage and the removal of barriers to ensure they are accessible. 

As a result, the routes can get very busy at times and it is important to show consideration to other users. Advice about using shared use paths is available on the Sustrans website.

Each route has its own webpage which includes more detail about where it is and what improvements have taken place.

Although the routes are not identical, they all have the same key design principles:

  • Shared use for cycling and walking
  • High quality
  • Durable
  • Low maintenance
  • Where possible, routes are accessible for all users including cyclists, pushchairs and wheelchair and mobility scooter users
  • Pleasant routes for leisure and commuting

Where possible, all routes are three metres wide. This ensures that pedestrians and cyclists can comfortably share without conflict as long as they show each other consideration.

Many of the routes are former railway lines which were built in cuttings. Unfortunately this means that, in places, the only access is via steps. Ramps have been built where possible and the council will continue to seek funding to improve accessibility.

The routes are:

  1. Roe Green Loopline
  2. Linnyshaw Loopline
  3. Tyldesley Loopline
  4. Ellenbrook Loopline
  5. Port Salford Greenway
  6. Bridgewater Way
  7. Swinton Greenway

A leaflet showing the traffic-free network can be downloaded from this page.

TfGM also produce comprehensive cycle maps of the city, available on the TfGM website.

For information on guided walks and other ways to stay heathy please visit the council’s getting more active page.

Downloadable documents

If you are unable to view documents of these types, our downloads page provides links to viewing software.

This page was last updated on 7 March 2024

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