The best cycling routes around Great Clifton
4.5
(142)
2,633
riders
218
rides
Touring cycling routes around Great Clifton offer access to the diverse landscapes of Cumbria, bordering the Western Lake District. The region features a mix of fells, valleys, and picturesque countryside, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Routes often follow river courses like the Derwent and lead to scenic lakes such as Loweswater. This area provides a blend of gentle paths and more challenging ascents through its natural features.
Best touring cycling routes around Great Clifton
- The most popular touring cycling route…
Last updated: April 28, 2026
4.9
(7)
38
riders
26.4km
01:38
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
27
riders
36.1km
02:22
460m
460m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(4)
16
riders
28.9km
01:50
260m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
19.2km
01:13
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
10
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Hadrian's Cycleway in Ling Beck (Seaton) traffic-free, but many walkers with dogs.
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South of Ling Beck Park lie two ponds that form part of the natural landscape surrounding the Ling Beck watercourse. These ponds are surrounded by grassland, trees, and shrubs, and provide a serene spot for walkers and nature lovers. Although not designated as an official recreation area, they are regularly visited by local residents who enjoy the tranquility, the views, and the presence of waterfowl such as ducks and herons. The ponds also serve an ecological function in the stream's drainage system, contributing to the area's biodiversity.
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Navvies Bridge is a modern pedestrian and cycle bridge over the River Derwent in Workington, Cumbria, built in 2011 to replace an earlier bridge that was destroyed in the 2009 floods. The new bridge is designed as a twin-ribbed untied bowstring arch of steel, with a span of 84.8 metres and a deck width of 3 metres — almost double the width of the original bridge.
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Here, just before Workington, the Reivers Route and the Hadrian's Cycleway meet.
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Siddick Ponds is a valuable nature reserve in Cumbria, designated as both a Local Nature Reserve (LNR) and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The area comprises two large ponds—one freshwater and one brackish—surrounded by extensive reedbeds, creating a unique ecological combination within the region. This diverse habitat makes Siddick Ponds one of Cumbria's most important birdwatching areas, hosting a diverse community of bird species year-round.
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Beautiful, traffic-free cycle path on a former railway line and part of the West Cumbria Cycle Network.
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Millers Bridge, also known as Harris Bridge, is a steel pedestrian bridge over the River Derwent in Cockermouth, Cumbria, connecting the northern and southern parts of the city. The original structure was destroyed by severe flooding in 2009, and the bridge was rebuilt in 2010 with modified foundations to address changes in the riverbank caused by erosion. The reopening by HRH The Princess Royal underscored the importance of this connection to the local community. As a functional infrastructure, the bridge not only provides pedestrian access but also views of the surrounding landscape.
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Wordsworth House rises majestically on Main Street in Cockermouth, a charming town on the edge of the Lake District. Built around 1745, the house reflects the understated grandeur of Georgian architecture: a perfectly symmetrical façade of sand-colored bricks, tall rectangular windows with classically framed woodwork, and an ornate yet understated doorway that evokes the sense of order and proportion characteristic of this period. The poet William Wordsmouth was born here in 1770.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Great Clifton?
There are over 220 touring cycling routes around Great Clifton, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes over 2,700 times.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Great Clifton?
The terrain around Great Clifton is diverse, ranging from gentle paths along river courses like the Derwent to more challenging ascents through fells and picturesque countryside. You'll find a mix of flat sections, rolling hills, and some steeper climbs, especially as you approach the Western Lake District.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Great Clifton?
Yes, there are 38 easy touring cycling routes around Great Clifton. An excellent option for beginners is the Navvies Bridge – View of the Offshore Wind Farm loop from Workington, which is 16.4 miles (26.4 km) long and offers coastal views on mostly flat terrain.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Great Clifton?
Many of the touring cycling routes in the Great Clifton area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the The Herb Ford loop from Great Clifton is a moderate 19.2 km route that provides a scenic circular experience.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while touring cycling near Great Clifton?
The region offers stunning natural beauty. You can cycle near several lakes, including Loweswater, Crummock Water, and Buttermere, and enjoy views of fells like Blake Fell and Fellbarrow. Highlights include the Holme Wood Bothy and the beach at Loweswater, the View of Loweswater, Crummock Water, and Buttermere, and the Siddick Ponds Nature Reserve.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy about the routes around Great Clifton?
The touring cycling routes around Great Clifton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 140 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from coastal views to tranquil lake districts and challenging fells, as well as the variety of routes suitable for different abilities.
Are the touring cycling routes around Great Clifton suitable for families?
Yes, Great Clifton offers family-friendly cycling options, particularly on the easier, flatter routes or those along river valleys. Routes with less elevation gain and away from busy roads are ideal for families. Consider routes like the John Dalton's Birthplace loop from Greysouthen for a shorter, easier ride.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes near Great Clifton?
Parking is generally available in nearby towns like Workington or Cockermouth, which serve as common starting points for many routes. Specific parking areas may also be found near popular trailheads or attractions, though it's always advisable to check local signage.
Are there cafes or pubs along the touring cycling routes in Great Clifton?
Yes, the region has charming towns and villages like Cockermouth, Workington, and Keswick, which offer numerous cafes, pubs, and other amenities. You'll find opportunities to stop for refreshments or a meal, especially on routes that pass through or near these settlements. The Kirkstile Inn – Loweswater loop from Great Clifton, for instance, passes by the Kirkstile Inn.
Can I reach touring cycling routes near Great Clifton using public transport?
While Great Clifton itself is a smaller village, nearby towns like Workington and Cockermouth are accessible by public transport, including bus services. From these towns, you can often connect to various cycling routes. It's recommended to check local bus schedules and policies regarding bicycle transport.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Great Clifton area offers routes with significant elevation gains. The Kirkstile Inn – Loweswater loop from Great Clifton is a difficult 22.4 miles (36.1 km) path with over 450 meters of elevation gain, providing scenic views of Loweswater and the surrounding fells.
Are there any routes that offer coastal views or views of the offshore wind farm?
Yes, you can enjoy coastal scenery and views of the offshore wind farm on certain routes. The Navvies Bridge – View of the Offshore Wind Farm loop from Workington is a popular easy route that specifically highlights these features.
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