The Lake District is all abuzz nowadays as a prime vacation spot where anybody can enjoy a vacation and become immersed in the local culture. But beyond the structures of restaurants and shopping malls or the nightlife scene and prime historical sites, this region’s typically hilly terrain has more to offer. As such, we have prepared the list you’re dying to see: the best cycling routes in The Lake District you never knew existed. Read on to discover them now!
For Beginners: Windermere Western Shore (8 Miles Return)
Windermere’s quiet bank is great for cycling, with magnificent lake vistas from mostly traffic-free bridleways. On special holidays and getaways, the route can be reached by automobile from Wray Castle, by ferry from Bowness-on-Windermere or by cycle boat from Brockhole. Wray Castle and Claife Viewing Station sell refreshments and Brockhole rents motorcycles.
For Moderate Beginners: The Langdale Bike Path (11 Miles, with Steep Sections)
The Langdale Cycle Trail winds through woods, a slate quarry and alongside a river, offering stunning views of the Great Langdale valley. Begin at the Stickle Ghyll parking park and prepare for a tough climb near the beginning of this trip. When you reach the summit, soak in the amazing views. This trail ends at Chesters by the River, a café where you can grab a drink before returning to the Stickle Ghyll parking lot.
For Moderate Beginners: The Grasmere Trail (10.4 Miles Return)
On a gorgeous day, what could be more appealing than a picnic on the calm shores of Grasmere? This charming path connects Ambleside and Grasmere, travelling past Rydal Water, Grasmere and Loughrigg Fell. Although, note that there are a couple of short, severe hills and descents in between.
For Various Levels: Grizedale Woods (Various Trails)
Grizedale Forest’s mild Goosey Foot Tarn Trail (two miles) and family-friendly Mushroom Cycle Trail are ideal for young cyclists. There are numerous graded trails, with longer routes available to experienced riders. For adrenaline lovers, the North Face Mountain Bike Trail and ‘The Black’ are excellent. There is something for everyone here and if you don’t have your own bike, Grizedale Mountain Bikes can rent one to you.
For Various Levels: The Eskdale Trail (8.5 Miles One Way, with Challenging Sections)
The Eskdale Trail is a national cycle route that connects Dalegarth in the Eskdale valley to Ravenglass on the coast. With the exception of one challenging part, the course is appropriate for most ages. Here, you can then sit back and unwind as this magnificent steam train whisks you back to your starting place.
For Moderate Experts: Whinlatter Forest Trails (Various Trails)
Whitlatter is England’s only true mountain wood, featuring the Lake District’s longest purpose-built mountain bike paths. The Quercus Trail (2-mile and 4.6-mile options), mountain bike orienteering courses and the more challenging Altura Trail are also available. Here, mountain bikes can be rented as well.
For Experts: Great Mell Fell and Little Mell Fell Cycle Loop (17.5 Miles)
This route leads away from the lake and towards the surrounding highlands and valleys. Both Great Mell Fell and Little Mell Fell are encircled by a network of peaceful high-level roads, making the location ideal for horseback riding. Begin and end at Pooley Bridge, with refreshments available at adjacent cafés and pubs after the ride.
For Experts: A Tour of Borrowdale (17 Miles, with Steep Climbs and Technical Descents)
Borrowdale Tour is a challenging cycling route through the magnificent Lakeland countryside. The path starts in Keswick and travels clockwise around Derwentwater, passing through Watendlath, Rosthwaite and Seatoller to the south. Despite its short length, the path includes tough climbs and descents and is thus not for the faint of heart!
Conclusion
With the growing fascination with cycling today, it’s no surprise that more and more people are looking for bike trails in and out of the city. After all, who can resist a good time with nature while exercising with friends and loved ones? And here in The Lake District, there’s definitely more than meets the eye. Don’t miss out on these bike trails for your next visit!
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