Lake District

Explore The 9 Best Family Cycle Routes | Lake District

Explore The 9 Best Family Cycle Routes | Lake District

lake district bike routes

Are you looking for a unique and exciting way to explore the majestic Lake District? If so, then look no further than cycling! Take in the scenic beauty of rolling hills, stunning valleys, and mysterious fells while enjoying an unforgettable experience on two wheels. From family bike rides around Windermere to challenging mountain climbs, there are cycle routes here that cater to all types of cyclists; whether you prefer leisurely jaunts or thrilling adventures. And what's great about taking your bike into the Lakes is that it enables you to take in sights inaccessible by car, so get on your bike and pedal off into adventure this summer!

Cycling Routes
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    The table above lists all the best cycle routes in the Lake District. Click on each name to be taken straight to the part of the blog post for that route.

    The Best Places For Biking in the Lakes!

    The Lake District is known for its gorgeous scenery and walking trails but there are also plenty of great cycle routes to enjoy! Have a look below at the cycle routes listed on the interactive map and click on the buttons below the map for each route, for further information before you travel. The purple icons on the map indicate some local bike hire places. Check them out for prices on their website before you rent.

    The Grasmere Trail

    Embark on an invigorating biking adventure through the Lake District! Begin your journey in Ambleside and traverse a largely traffic-free course alongside Rydal Water, Grasmere, and Loughrigg Fell. Conquer some challenging inclines over undulating terrain as you make your way to Grasmere village - home of the famous gingerbread. Recharge with a delicious treat before taking off back towards Ambleside for a wonderful day out perfect for cycling families or those seeking leisurely fun outdoors.

    The Torver Trail

    Explore Coniston like never before by cycling along the Torver Trail! Starting at the lakeside carpark, you can cycle along this 6-mile return path; skirting around Lake Coniston's western shore and moving briefly inland to picturesque Torver. From gentle hills that follow lakeside roads - running through old railway lines converted to paths - your adventure in rural Cumbria awaits on a well-marked trail!

    Windermere Western Shore

    Embark on a nautical cycle adventure next to the magnificent Windermere Lake for an unforgettable cycling experience. Follow more than 14 miles of cycle route with some parts on tranquil traffic-free paths. Start From Brockhole Visitor Centre by taking the boat across the lake before cycling next to the idyllic Claife Heights on quiet roads in one of the more famous parts of the beautiful Lake District!

    The Eskdale Trail

    Take on a unique cycling experience on the Eskdale Trail and explore the stunning Ravenglass and Eskdale Valley! Ride your bike from the base of Scafell range, following winding riverside paths, lush meadows, and ancient oak woodlands. Traverse an 8-mile journey past picturesque landscapes down towards Ravenglass situated by tranquil Irish Sea waters.

    lake district cycle routes

    Keswick to Threlkeld Railway Path

    Travel along the Keswick to Threlkeld Railway trail and explore a path steeped in history! Follow the River Greta, where you can observe majestic herons and dippers at home. Journey across some of the old railway’s original Victorian bridges as well as those rebuilt after the recent Storm Desmond's destruction – all on an impressively smooth tarmac surface with minimal incline.

    Langdale Cycle Trail

    Discover the remarkable beauty of Langdale Valley with this unforgettable bike journey on the Langdale Cycle Trail. Following a mostly flat route on quiet lanes and trails, embark from the majestic peaks at Langdale Pikes and ride through peaceful meadows, rustic woodland, and captivating slate quarries before reaching Elterwater via a riverside path. You’ll have an opportunity to take in stunning views as you ascend back up to enjoy the impressive sights that set apart some of Lake’s most breathtaking scenery.

    Great Mell Fell and Little Mell Fell Cycle Route

    For an unforgettable cycling experience, explore the splendid panoramas of northern Ullswater on a route that encompasses the Great Mell Fell and Little Mell Fell peaks. Glide along tranquil byways as they loop around both mountains while offering spectacular views all over Cumbria's majestic peaks and valleys. Make sure to bring your camera for this 17-mile scenic journey!

    family cycle routes lake district

    MTB: Grizedale Forest

    Grizedale Forest is the perfect destination for any level of cyclist, from novice to expert. Enjoy a fantastic adventure as you take on its renowned mountain bike routes with stunning views over Helvellyn and beyond! With distances ranging between green and red trails, every rider can make their way through the forest between two captivating lakes: Coniston Water and Lake Windermere – all amidst an impressive elevation change to challenge you on your saddle!

    MTB: Whinlatter Forest

    Experience the unique challenge of mountain biking in Whinlatter Forest, a stunning location with heights 790 metres above sea level with spectacular views across the Lake District. With purpose-built trails that have been voted as some of the best in the UK, it's an ideal place to test your skills or take on an adrenaline-filled adventure!

    Conclusion

    In this blog post, we have shared some of the best bike routes in the Lake District. To find out more about things to do in this area, click on the links below:

     

    Lake District Blogs

     

    Free Things to do in the Lake District

     

    Forest Walks in the Lake District

     

    Local Delicacies from the Lake District

    Please note...

    All outdoor activities including cycling involve a degree of risk. The routes are recommended due to the well known features of each route but this may change over time and further research is required before undertaking any activity. The weather can also impact the surface and general conditions of each route so please keep yourself updated with the weather forecast before setting off to enjoy your cycle!

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