The best cycling routes around Windermere

Touring cycling routes around Windermere offer a diverse range of terrain. You'll find dedicated cycle paths and quiet back roads along the shores of England's largest lake, as well as paths winding through picturesque countryside, tranquil rivers, and woodlands. While many routes feature minimal elevation, some, particularly those venturing into the surrounding hills and Furness Fells, include moderate to significant elevation gains, providing options for various fitness levels.

Yes, Windermere offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. A great option is the Belle Isle to Downtown Winter Garden route, which is 20.1 miles (32.3 km) long with minimal elevation gain. The Windermere Western Shore route is also family-friendly and primarily uses traffic-free bridleways, offering a gentle ride with scenic views.

The Windermere area is rich with scenic viewpoints accessible by bike. You can enjoy expansive vistas across Lake Windermere and beyond from spots like Biskey Howe and Gummer's How. Many routes along the lake's shore, such as those incorporating a ferry crossing like the "Windermere Ferry – View of Lake Windermere loop from Far Sawrey," also provide stunning lake views. Additionally, the Boardwalk to Lake Tibet Overlook offers a beautiful perspective.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Windermere has routes with significant elevation and difficult terrain. The West Orange and Lake Apopka Trail Loop is a difficult 53.9-mile (86.8 km) path with a moderate elevation gain of 909 feet (277 meters). Another demanding option is the 23.8-mile Windermere, Elterwater & Grasmere loop, which features notable elevation gains.

The best seasons for touring cycling in Windermere are spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November). In spring, you'll experience blooming flowers and fresh greenery, while autumn offers beautiful golden-brown foliage. These seasons generally provide pleasant weather conditions for exploring the region's diverse landscapes.

Many touring cycling routes in Windermere pass by or lead to interesting attractions. You can visit historic sites like Wray Castle and the Claife Viewing Station. Literary enthusiasts might enjoy the Beatrix Potter Trail, which takes you through Sawrey to Beatrix Potter's former home, Hilltop Farm. The Downtown Winter Garden area is also a popular stop, and you can find highlights like Cinderella's Castle nearby.

Yes, Windermere offers several circular touring cycling routes. A full tour of Lake Windermere covers approximately 22 miles, primarily using back roads and cycle tracks. More challenging circular options include the 23.8-mile Windermere, Elterwater & Grasmere loop and the 22.9-mile Bowness on Windermere to Little Langdale loop, both offering varied terrain and scenic beauty.

Public transport options are available to help you access touring cycling routes around Windermere. The Bike Boat and a Bike Bus service operate in the area, making it easier to explore wider parts of the Lake District National Park without always starting from the same point. For example, the Windermere Western Shore route is easily accessible via the Bike Boat from Brockhole or the car ferry from Bowness-on-Windermere.

The touring cycling routes around Windermere are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 57 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from tranquil lake shores and picturesque countryside to challenging hills and woodlands. The variety of routes, catering to all ability levels, and the stunning natural beauty are frequently highlighted as key attractions.

Yes, some touring cycling routes in Windermere offer the unique experience of a ferry crossing. Routes such as "Along the shore of Windermere to Hawkshead" and "Windermere Ferry – View of Lake Windermere loop from Far Sawrey" incorporate a scenic ferry ride, adding an extra dimension to your cycling adventure and providing different perspectives of the lake.

Absolutely. The Windermere region is dotted with beautiful natural features. While cycling, you can encounter tranquil spots like the River Kent and various tarns, including Wise Een Tarn, Moss Eccles Tarn, and the popular Tarn Hows. The route from Windermere to Kendal, for instance, follows National Route 6 alongside the River Kent, offering picturesque views.

Yes, several routes will take you through charming villages and towns where you can find amenities. The route from Windermere to Kendal passes through Staveley, known for having the UK's largest bike shop, and Burneside. The vibrant market town of Kendal itself is famous for its mint cake and provides a cultural stop with various services.