The Lake District in Cumbria, England, is a renowned destination for cycling enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of routes and opportunities for both road cyclists and mountain bikers. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, the Lake District’s stunning landscapes and well-maintained trails provide an unforgettable cycling experience.
Popular Cycling Routes
- Windermere West Shore: Enjoy a gentle, lakeside ride with beautiful views of Windermere, making it an ideal route for beginners.
- Grizedale Forest: Explore family-friendly routes with gentle slopes and traffic-free trails, perfect for a leisurely cycling adventure.
- Whinlatter Forest: Discover designated off-road trails that cater to the needs of mountain bikers, offering a thrilling and challenging experience.
- The Torver Trail: Cycle along the scenic shores of Coniston Water, taking in the stunning natural beauty of the area.
- The Grasmere Trail: Embark on a leisurely ride through the picturesque village of Grasmere, known for its charming streets and local attractions.
- Eskdale Trail: Venture into one of eastern Lakeland’s most beautiful valleys, following a linear bike ride that offers breathtaking views.
- Broughton on Furness: Cycle along the old railway line to Coniston, covering a distance of 4.5km and providing a scenic and peaceful journey.
- Langdale Cycle Trail: Challenge yourself with a more demanding route that takes you through the stunning Langdale Valley.
- Ennerdale Valley Cycle Routes: Explore the western shore of Ennerdale Water, where you can enjoy the serene and picturesque surroundings.
- Keswick to Threlkeld Railway: Discover a family-friendly route that follows the path of a disused railway line, offering a gentle and enjoyable cycling experience.
Bike Hire Locations
Cycling in the Lake District is made easy with the availability of bike hire services at various locations throughout the region. Here are some of the top bike hire spots:
- Coniston Boating Centre: Offers a selection of mountain and electric bikes for rent.
- Hawkshead: Provides both mountain and electric bikes for a day of adventure.
- Waterhead: Rent bikes for a leisurely ride around the stunning Windermere.
- Wray Castle: Hire bikes and explore the scenic routes around Windermere.
- Lowther Castle: Offers bike hire and a range of trails suitable for families.
- Penrith: Bike hire services with delivery to locations within a 15-mile radius.
- Grizedale Forest: Rent mountain and electric bikes to explore the forest’s trails.
- Biketreks Grizedale: Specializes in mountain bike and E-Bike rentals.
Scenic Cycling Spots
The Lake District is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, and cycling offers the perfect way to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes. Here are some of the most scenic cycling spots in the region:
- Windermere: Enjoy the peaceful western shore of Windermere, with stunning lake views and a gentle cycling experience.
- Grizedale Forest: Explore the forest’s gentle slopes and traffic-free trails, surrounded by the lush greenery and tranquility of the natural environment.
- Whinlatter Forest: Challenge yourself on the designated off-road trails, offering an exhilarating mountain biking experience.
- Coniston Water: Ride along the shores of Coniston Water, taking in the serene and picturesque views.
- Grasmere: Cycle through the charming village of Grasmere, known for its quaint streets, local shops, and historic attractions.
- Eskdale Valley: Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Eskdale Valley, with its rolling hills and stunning natural scenery.
- Langdale: Tackle the challenging routes of the Langdale Valley, offering a rewarding cycling experience for experienced riders.
- Ennerdale Valley: Enjoy the scenic rides along the western shore of Ennerdale Water, surrounded by the majestic fells and tranquil waters.
Additional Information
When planning your cycling adventure in the Lake District, keep the following information in mind:
- Age Restrictions: Bike hire is generally available for those 16 years and older, unless accompanied by an adult.
- Hire Inclusions: Bike hire typically includes a helmet, spare tube, tyre levers, pump, and bike lock, ensuring you have the necessary equipment for a safe and enjoyable ride.
- Route Maps: Maps are available at cycle hire centers, and the OS Maps App can be used to track your progress and navigate the various routes.
- Guided Cycling: For a more immersive experience, consider booking a guided cycling tour, where you can learn about the local history and explore the region with the guidance of an experienced local.
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, the Lake District offers a diverse range of cycling opportunities to suit all skill levels and preferences. From gentle lakeside rides to challenging mountain bike trails, the region’s stunning landscapes and well-maintained routes provide an unforgettable cycling experience for Lakes touring enthusiasts.
References
- https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/visiting/things-to-do/cycling
- https://www.visitlakedistrict.com/things-to-do/outdoor-activities/cycling-in-the-lake-district-cumbria
- https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/visiting/things-to-do/cycling/cycling-routes
- https://epicroadrides.com/destinations/cycling-uk/lake-district/
- https://www.sallyscottages.co.uk/guides/favourite-lake-district-cycling-routes