Riding in Blackburn: Unpredictable, Exciting, and Occasionally Frustrating
Blackburn isn’t the kind of place where you just hop on your bike and switch to autopilot. One moment, you’re enjoying a peaceful cruise through the countryside; the next, you’re weaving through traffic, dodging potholes, and dealing with drivers who seem to have forgotten how to use their indicators. It’s a mix of fast roads, tricky urban stretches, and the occasional route that feels like a test of your patience.
It’s got variety, that’s for sure. The town itself is busy, with its fair share of traffic headaches, but the real joy of riding in Blackburn comes when you break free into the surrounding countryside. That said, if you’re not paying attention, some roads can catch you out. And the weather? Let’s just say if you don’t have waterproofs stashed somewhere, you’re either a gambler or an optimist.
Roads That Keep You on Your Toes
Blackburn’s got some great roads, but not all of them are what you’d call “easy riding.” Here are a few where you’ll want to stay sharp:
- A666 (The Devil’s Highway); The name alone tells you what you need to know. Twisting over the moors between Egerton and Darwen, it’s stunning but unpredictable; tight bends, fast-moving weather, and drivers who think they’re in a rally car.
- Livesey Branch Road; A classic accident hotspot where cars love to pull out without warning. If you ride here, assume nobody sees you.
- M65 Eastbound (Junctions 3-4); A high-speed stretch of motorway with a history of bikers getting caught out by sudden stops and collisions with the central reservation. Keep your space.
- Blackburn Road, Accrington; A mix of sudden stops, unpredictable turns, and impatient drivers. You’ll want to be extra aware of your surroundings.
- Blackburn Town Centre; High traffic, endless junctions, and pedestrians who seem to think looking both ways is optional. The best approach? Assume nobody’s paying attention except you.
- A6078 Ring Road Roundabouts; If you like your roundabouts simple and stress-free, you’re in the wrong place. These ones are busy, chaotic, and full of drivers making last-second decisions.
The Rides That Make It All Worthwhile
Now, for the good stuff. When you’ve had enough of traffic and just want to enjoy the ride, these routes will remind you why you love being on two wheels:
- Ribble Valley via A59; A proper countryside escape with rolling hills, smooth roads, and plenty of great spots to stop for a coffee. Just be ready to overtake the odd tractor.
- Forest of Bowland via B6243; Easily one of the most stunning rides around. Narrow lanes, sharp bends, and some breathtaking views; just don’t get too distracted by the scenery.
- Southport via A677 & A570; A mix of town riding, open stretches, and eventually, the coast. A great weekend ride, but expect plenty of traffic as you get closer to Southport.
Motorbike Theft in Blackburn: Don’t Make It Easy for Them
Blackburn isn’t the worst place for bike theft, but it’s definitely not crime-free. In July 2024 alone, 82 vehicle crimes were reported; that’s about 0.69 per 1,000 residents. Not the kind of numbers that let you leave your bike unlocked and hope for the best.
Want to keep your bike safe? Do this:
- Use a solid lock; Not just a flimsy chain; get something heavy-duty that makes thieves think twice.
- Pick your parking spots wisely; Well-lit areas, CCTV, and plenty of foot traffic are always better than a quiet side street.
- Consider an alarm or tracker; If someone *does* try to take it, at least you’ll have a chance of getting it back.
New to the area? Ask local riders where to park and where to avoid; they’ve already figured it out the hard way.
So, Is Blackburn a Good Place to Ride?
That depends on what kind of rider you are.
✅ The Good Stuff:
- Plenty of variety; whether you’re weaving through town traffic or heading out into the countryside for a proper escape, there’s a road for every mood.
- A great biking community with regular meet-ups, group rides, and events; so you’re never short on good company for a ride.
- No shortage of bike-friendly spots; local garages, shops, and plenty of places to stop for a brew and a chat with fellow riders.
⚠️ The Not-So-Good:
- Some roads have a *higher than average* accident rate; so a bit of extra caution goes a long way.
- Bike theft is a reality; if you don’t lock up properly, you’re rolling the dice.
- The weather is as unpredictable as ever; if you’re not prepared, you *will* regret it.
Final verdict? Blackburn isn’t the easiest place to ride, but if you know what you’re doing, it’s a fantastic place to own a bike. Ride smart, stay alert, and make the most of the great roads nearby.
Thinking about motorbike insurance? Get it sorted now; because riding in Blackburn is unpredictable enough without worrying about what happens if things go sideways.
