Millions using cycle route 10 years after launch

A cycle route that was launched ten years ago is now attracting more than three million people annually, the charity that created it has said.

Bay Cycle Way connects Walney Island in Barrow-in-Furness with Glasson Dock, Lancaster, offering coastal views along its stretch.

Morecambe Bay Partnership, which created the route with National Cycle Network custodian Sustrans in 2015, said the path had become very popular over the past decade thanks to its variety.

Its 10th birthday will be marked with four fundraising challenges encouraging people to explore the route.

The 81-mile (130km) path was created to help people take in the coastal views and bring tourism to the area.

Michelle Cooper, from Morecambe Bay Partnership, said the route had been "a great success".

More than one million cyclists are believed to have used Bay Cycle Way last year - up form about 67,000 when it launched.

More than three million people in total used parts of the path over 2024, including walkers and cyclists.

Alex Miller, Network Development Manager at Sustrans, said: "It's no surprise that the Bay Cycle Way has been such a success, and we're thrilled it continues to be so popular after ten years."

He said a recent survey had shown more than 90% of people using the path had said it had improved their levels of physical activity and wellbeing.

Ms Cooper said the beauty of the route and the fact it was not to strenuous contributed to its success.

"I think the landscape speaks for itself," she said.

"You can hear the waves, you can see the sea birds but then it also takes you on quiet country lanes up to headlands and viewpoints and from there you get these amazing panoramas, enormous skies over the bay and shining sands."

Morecambe Bay Partnership is celebrating the 10th birthday of the cycle way with a series of challenges.

It is hoped the initiative will help raise more than £5,000 and establish the path as a potential location for fundraising events.

"We want people to take their time to explore this place and all the amazing scenery," Ms Cooper added.

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