Cycling Adventures in the Lake District

We all know that the Lake District has amazing views, historic attractions and is a brilliant place to visit, whether you love hiking, going for a boat ride or dining at one of the many restaurants, pubs and cafes.

The Lake District is also one of the best locations for cycling adventures, however. You might fancy yourself as a future winner of the Tour de France, want an activity all the family can take part in or perhaps you like to race and get muddy on rough trails. There is something for everyone here. Our blog looks at how to plan an amazing cycling adventure in the Lake District, just as soon as the Covid regulations allow it.

Lake District Cottages for Cyclists

The benefit of staying in a Coppermines Lake District Cottage is that you can bring your own bicycles with you, and after a day of cycling adventures you can come back to your cottage home, clean up and then make a meal in the well-equipped kitchens or get ready to go out in complete comfort.

Hire or Bring Your Bike from Home?

Some people like to have their own bike when they go on holiday but transporting it can be a bit of a chore. The good news is that you can also hire a range of bikes at many locations in the Lake District.

You can hire in places that include Brockhole and Coniston Boating Centre, where the cost is £30 for the day for adults, £22 for children.

Whinlatter Forest

If you want to combine stunning views with your cycling experience, Whinlatter is a great choice and has 3 different trails ranging in difficulty from the very easy to a more challenging descent. The Gorse Cycle Route takes you up on top of the hills with amazing panoramas of the surrounding countryside.

Grizedale Forest

A world heritage site in the middle of the Lake District, Grizedale is a very popular destination and has 9 cycle trails to take advantage of. There are also plenty of walks and picnic areas where you can sit back and relax. It’s a brilliant location to set up your base for exploring the rest of the Lake District with a nearby campsite and holiday cottage.

Lowther Castle

Lowther Castle is a massive estate and has several trails that allow you to explore the surrounding countryside, woodlands and riverside. The routes are designed for people of all ages and abilities and you can hire your cycles on-site, including electric bikes for those who don’t want to work up a sweat.

Lowther Castle itself is also worth a visit, especially the gardens and the café which serves local delights during the day.

Eskdale Trail

To access this trail, you need to take your bike up to the base of the Scafell range using a specially modified train. The journey is about 40 minutes but is well worth it. The Eskdale Trail runs for about 8 ½ miles and is a great way to see local wildlife such as red squirrels and the odd deer as well as some historic sites like St Bega’s Church.

The Keswick to Threlkeld Trail

This runs along a disused railway and has recently had some repair work carried out on it. With picnic benches along the way, this is a great place to walk or ride your bike with all the family. The trail heads through the stunning River Greta Gorge and has places to eat and drink along the way. 

Guided Cycle Rides

If you want to learn more about the local area, you can also book on guided cycle rides where an experienced ride leader accompanies you. These are held throughout the year in the Lake District and are a great option for people of all ages and abilities.

The Lake District is a beautiful place and cycling here is a real joy which can be enjoyed by anyone when the Covid restrictions are lifted.