The Lake District, known for its stunning landscapes, offers some of the most scenic and challenging cycling routes in the UK. Whether you're a beginner looking for gentle rides or a seasoned cyclist seeking challenging ascents, the Lake District has a variety of trails to suit all skill levels. Below is a guide to some of the top cycling routes in this picturesque region.
1. Grasmere to Coniston
Distance: 16 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: This scenic route takes you past tranquil lakes, dense woodlands, and quaint villages. Starting in Grasmere, famous for its connections to William Wordsworth, the route heads towards Coniston Water, offering breathtaking views of the fells.
Why it’s great: It’s a relatively gentle ride for most cyclists with rewarding scenery. Plus, you can stop for a delicious treat at Grasmere Gingerbread Shop or relax by the shores of Coniston Water.
2. The Borrowdale Circuit
Distance: 25 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Highlights: One of the most scenic loops in the Lake District, the Borrowdale Circuit starts in Keswick and takes you around Derwentwater and into the stunning Borrowdale Valley.
Why it’s great: The beautiful valley views combined with stretches of challenging terrain, including Honister Pass, make this a must-ride for intermediate cyclists. You can also stop at Honister Slate Mine or Rosthwaite for some well-deserved refreshments.
3. The Struggle
Distance: 8 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Highlights: If you’re seeking a challenge, this aptly named route climbs from Ambleside to the summit of Kirkstone Pass (the highest pass in the Lake District), with steep sections that test your endurance.
Why it’s great: The reward for your efforts is panoramic views at the top. For experienced cyclists, this is one of the best routes to test your legs. After the climb, head to The Kirkstone Pass Inn, the highest pub in the Lakes, for a refreshment break.
4. Newlands Valley Circuit
Distance: 23 miles
Difficulty: Challenging
Highlights: Starting in Keswick, this loop heads towards Braithwaite and into the beautiful Newlands Valley. The ride includes climbs over Newlands Pass and offers stunning views of Buttermere and Crummock Water.
Why it’s great: The combination of scenic beauty and challenging climbs makes this a cyclist's paradise. Stop at Buttermere for some downtime and a slice of cake at Croft House Farm Café.
5. Windermere Loop
Distance: 45 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: This route takes you around the largest lake in England—Windermere. The route includes a mix of flat sections and some moderate climbs, with stunning views over the lake and its surrounding fells.
Why it’s great: Ideal for those wanting a longer ride without too much technical difficulty. You can stop at The Angel Inn in Bowness-on-Windermere for a lunch break before completing your loop.
6. Eskdale Trail
Distance: 16 miles
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highlights: A gentler off-road route, perfect for families or beginners. The Eskdale Trail runs from Ravenglass along the River Esk, through beautiful woodland and countryside.
Why it’s great: It’s a traffic-free trail with stunning valley views, ideal for a leisurely ride. You can also ride the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway if you want a break from cycling.
7. Whinlatter Pass
Distance: 10 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Highlights: One of the most popular cycling routes, Whinlatter Pass offers stunning forest views with challenging climbs. You can start from Keswick and cycle towards the Whinlatter Forest Park.
Why it’s great: The Whinlatter Pass is a favourite for those looking for a workout. Take a break at the Siskins Café in Whinlatter Forest, where you can also try some mountain biking trails.
Top Tips for Cycling in the Lake District:
Bring the Right Gear: Be prepared with a good set of tires, as some paths are rocky and uneven. Waterproof gear is essential, as Lake District weather is notoriously unpredictable.
Fuel Up: Carry snacks, especially for longer rides. Stopping at local eateries like Chesters by the River in Skelwith Bridge for delicious pastries or The Square Orange in Keswick for a hearty pizza is a good idea.
Start Early: Popular routes like the Borrowdale Circuit can get busy, so starting early in the morning is ideal for a peaceful ride.
Essential Gear for Cyclists
Here are a few cycling must-haves that you can find on Amazon to make your ride comfortable and safe:
Giro Fixture MIPS Helmet: Lightweight and offers excellent protection.
Osprey Raptor 14 Hydration Pack: Perfect for keeping hydrated during long rides.
Garmin Edge 530 Bike Computer: A great GPS for tracking your route and performance.
Final Thoughts
The Lake District offers some of the most stunning and challenging cycling routes in the UK. Whether you’re seeking long-distance rides with rewarding views or adrenaline-pumping climbs, these trails will leave you breathless—in the best way possible!
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