4.6
(359)
4,160
riders
47
rides
Mountain biking around Ireby And Uldale offers diverse landscapes on the edge of the Lake District's Northern Fells, often referred to as "Back o'Skiddaw." This region features a mix of fells, quiet lanes, and unpaved sections, providing a range of experiences from tranquil rides to technically demanding mountain bike trails. Riders can explore areas like the Uldale Fells, Binsey, and Uldale Common, which offer tracks, views, and varied terrain. The area is characterized by rolling fell pasture, scattered stone cottages,…
Last updated: April 27, 2026
4.5
(16)
230
riders
17.6km
01:34
400m
400m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
24
riders
33.3km
02:14
420m
420m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.9
(23)
639
riders
40.7km
03:49
990m
990m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
5.0
(2)
20
riders
36.2km
03:14
870m
870m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
9
riders
9.27km
01:10
380m
380m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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Popular around Ireby And Uldale
Plenty of routes up and down. Nothing shown on map but the path from Nether Row has a sign on the gate stating it is a permissive bridalway.
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Ok, so it’s not an easy ride up as it has narrow and rocky sections. However a committed intermediate level rider should at least enjoy the bits they can ride, and the views across the valley and up to Skiddaw House make it a worthwhile climb, even when pushing the bike. We did it in summer, so imagine it’s trickier in winter.
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Ride past the cafe and around the back in between the caf and the bike shop. Hang your bike in the rail and there is an outdoor hatch to beat the indoor queues. There’s also a drinking water tap to fill up before the rest of your ride.
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Great place to rest your legs, take in the views and appreciate the moment.
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...also great view of the Irish Sea to the west
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There are nearly 50 mountain bike trails around Ireby And Uldale, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include 6 easy routes, 32 moderate routes, and 11 difficult routes, catering to various skill levels.
Yes, the region offers several options suitable for families, particularly among the 6 easy routes available. While specific family-designated trails aren't detailed, the quieter lanes and less technical sections of some routes can be enjoyed by those looking for a more relaxed ride. Always check the route difficulty and description on komoot before heading out.
The terrain in Ireby And Uldale is highly varied, ranging from tranquil lane rides to demanding mountain biking trails. You'll encounter rolling fell pasture, quiet lanes, and numerous unpaved sections. Some routes feature technically difficult segments and even require pushing your bike, especially in the 'underrated MTB zone' around Uldale, Dent Fell, and Lowther Park, which boasts steep black runs, flowing red trails, and winding blue routes.
Many of the mountain bike routes in Ireby And Uldale are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the moderate Lonscale Crags Trail – River Greta loop from Threlkeld and the Thirlmere Dam and Reservoir – Thirlmere Balcony Road loop from Threlkeld are popular circular options.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the region offers 11 difficult routes. A notable option is the Cyclewise Whinlatter Bike Shop – Big Dipper Trail loop from Setmurthy, which is a difficult 40.7 km trail with significant elevation gain. The 'underrated MTB zone' around Uldale, Dent Fell, and Lowther Park also features steep black runs and demanding trails for those with very good fitness.
Absolutely. The region is known for its stunning vistas. Binsey, a freestanding hill, offers impressive panoramic views of the western Lakeland fells, the Solway Firth, and even the Isle of Man on clear days. Uldale Common also provides extensive tracks with excellent views. You can also explore routes like the moderate Cyclewise Whinlatter Bike Shop – Gruffalo Viewpoint loop from Setmurthy for scenic spots.
Yes, the area is rich in natural beauty. You can find several lakes and waterfalls nearby. Notable waterfalls include Dash Falls, Blease Gill Waterfalls, and Whitewater Rapids on the River Caldew. For lakes, Derwent Water and Bassenthwaite Lake are within easy reach, offering picturesque views.
The mountain bike trails in Ireby And Uldale are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 350 reviews. Over 4000 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the diverse landscapes, the mix of fells and quiet lanes, and the challenging unpaved sections that provide a true off-road adventure.
Yes, Ireby And Uldale, often referred to as 'Back o'Skiddaw,' provides a quieter alternative to some of the more crowded spots in the Lake District. This allows for a more serene and off-grid mountain biking experience, especially on the extensive network of unofficial trails around Uldale, Dent Fell, and Lowther Park.
Yes, Bassenthwaite Lake is a prominent feature in the area and several routes offer views or pass close to it. For example, the moderate Bassenthwaite Lake – Isle bridge loop from Setmurthy is a great option to explore the lake's surroundings.
The region offers cycling opportunities year-round. While many unpaved and technically difficult sections are best enjoyed in drier conditions, quiet lanes and 'superb tractor lanes' provide pleasant cycling options even in less favorable weather. Always check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before you go.
While some fells are more suited for hiking, the region is nestled amidst the Uldale Fells and provides stunning vistas of larger peaks like Skiddaw. Binsey offers impressive panoramic views, and the 'five most north westerly Wainwright fells' (Barf, Lords Seat, Broom Fell, Ling Fell, and Sales Fell) are accessible, presenting expansive views of Bassenthwaite Lake and distant coastal scenery, some of which can be incorporated into mountain bike routes.


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