I count myself fairly lucky that in my college days I got to cycle down the Fallowfield Loop every day, an off-road cycle path that extends over eight miles from Chorlton to Gorton. 

Once a train line, the path is now a part of the National Cycle Network and is a great place to cycle, walk, jog, take your dog or even horse ride! Not only is it a good way of getting from A to B, it’s a lovely scenic path surrounded on either side by trees and plenty of benches to stop and rest at. 

My only complaint is one that can’t really be changed; once you get into Fallowfield the path ends and you’ll have to cross the road before getting to the next section, but even then there are paths leading to the traffic lights. 

For those who might not be the most confident cyclists who want to get around South Manchester, the Fallowfield Loop is a wonderful option, with plenty of exits so you can leave the path whenever you’d like (and maybe go to one of the wonderful parks along the route!). The route is completely free of motor traffic which not only makes it the greenest option, it also means cyclists and pedestrians don’t have to worry about cars or buses.