The best road cycling routes around Broughton Moor

There are over 270 road cycling routes around Broughton Moor, offering a wide range of options for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars.

Road cycling around Broughton Moor offers diverse terrain, from quiet country lanes and good forest roads to coastal routes along the Solway Firth. You'll find a mix of mostly paved, gentle gradients and more challenging loops with significant elevation gains, set against the backdrop of Lake District fells and river valleys.

Yes, Broughton Moor has options for all skill levels. There are 55 easy road cycling routes, such as The Metal Clock Sculpture – Navvies Bridge loop from Dearham, which is a 15-mile trail leading through local villages and quiet roads. Another easy option is the Navvies Bridge loop from Ellenborough.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Broughton Moor offers 28 difficult routes. These often feature significant elevation gains and longer distances, delving deeper into the Lake District's more demanding landscapes. An example of a moderate route with notable elevation is the Binsey Summit – Lakes and Dales Loop loop from Broughton, covering nearly 50 km with over 570 meters of ascent.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied scenery, from coastal vistas to tranquil forest tracks, and the availability of routes for different fitness levels. The peaceful environment away from heavy traffic on quiet country lanes is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

While specific family-friendly routes are not detailed, the region offers many quiet country lanes and accessible sections, particularly along the Solway Coast Cycle Path, which is mostly paved and suitable for various fitness levels. These flatter sections can be ideal for families.

Many routes offer glimpses of the region's rich history and natural beauty. You might pass by historical sites like 'The Hawk,' a prehistoric enclosed settlement, or the remains of Appletreeworth Farm. Some routes may lead you near Wordsworth House and Garden in nearby Cockermouth, or through Maryport, where you can see its historic harbour. Natural features include views of lower fells like Stickle Pike and the serene Lickle valley.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Broughton Moor are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include Twentyman's Ice Cream Shop loop from Broughton Moor and the Maryport Marina – The Fairy Dust Emporium loop from Great Broughton, offering varied scenery and distances.

The Lake District, including Broughton Moor, is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer generally offer the most favorable weather for road cycling, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. Autumn provides stunning scenery with changing foliage. Always check local weather forecasts, as conditions can change rapidly in the Lake District.

While specific cafes and pubs are not listed for every route, many routes pass through or near local villages and towns like Maryport, Great Broughton, and Dearham. These settlements typically offer amenities where cyclists can find refreshments. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify points of interest and potential stops along the way.

Public transport options in the Lake District can vary. While some larger towns are well-connected, accessing specific trailheads in more rural areas like Broughton Moor might require a combination of bus services and cycling. It's advisable to check local bus schedules and routes in advance if you plan to use public transport to reach your starting point.

Yes, the area is part of the wider Lake District National Park, which offers access to some of England's most scenic long-distance cycling trails. Routes like the Solway Coast Cycle Path provide extensive coastal riding, and more challenging loops can extend for many miles, such as a 56.1-mile touring loop from Maryport that delves into the Lake District.