The best road cycling routes around Askham

Askham offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 300 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and challenging rides through the diverse landscapes of Cumbria.

The terrain around Askham is quite varied, ranging from quiet country lanes in the Lowther Valley to challenging climbs over fells like Kirkstone Pass and Shap Summit. You'll find routes that traverse stunning scenery, including lakeside roads around Ullswater and Haweswater, and paths through historical estates.

Yes, Askham provides several easy road cycling options. A great choice is the Granny Dowbekin's Tearooms – Pooley Bridge loop from Pooley Bridge, an 28.0 km trail through the Ullswater area. Another accessible option is the Ullswater Lakeshore Road – Pooley Bridge (2020) loop from Pooley Bridge, which is 20.8 km and offers pleasant lakeside views.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Ullswater & Haweswater loop including Kirkstone Pass & Shap summit is an excellent choice. This difficult 90.1 km route features significant climbs and panoramic views of the lakes and fells, including Kirkstone Pass and Shap Summit.

Many of the road cycling routes in Askham are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Chippy Chippy – Scenic Country Lanes loop from Pooley Bridge, a moderate 47.9 km ride, and the Granny Dowbekin's Tearooms – Pooley Bridge loop from Pooley Bridge, an easier 28.0 km loop.

Road cycling routes around Askham offer stunning natural beauty and historical landmarks. You can cycle past the shores of Ullswater and Haweswater, and experience the dramatic vistas from challenging climbs like Kirkstone Pass and Shap Summit. Historical sites such as Lowther Castle & Gardens and Brougham Castle are also accessible along certain routes. For specific viewpoints, consider routes that pass near Thornthwaite Crag Beacon or Loadpot Hill Trig Point.

Yes, some routes offer glimpses of historical sites. The Lowther Loop, for instance, takes you through the grounds of Lowther Castle & Gardens and past Brougham Castle. An extended version of the Howtown loop can also lead to Martindale Church, adding a historical element to your ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 80 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from quiet country lanes to challenging fells, and the breathtaking views of lakes like Ullswater and Haweswater. The variety of routes catering to all abilities is also a frequently highlighted positive aspect.

Yes, the region offers opportunities to combine cycling with other activities. For example, the Howtown loop can include a ride along the Ullswater shoreline to Pooley Bridge, and you can even return via the Ullswater Steamer from Howtown Pier. Check the Howtown Pier – Ullswater Steamers for more information.

Absolutely. Askham is known for its prominent fells and challenging climbs, making it ideal for elevation training. The Ullswater & Haweswater loop including Kirkstone Pass & Shap summit, for example, features over 1189 meters of elevation gain, providing a demanding workout with rewarding panoramic views.

Many routes in Askham offer spectacular views. The Ullswater & Haweswater loop provides panoramic vistas from Kirkstone Pass and Shap Summit. For stunning lake views, consider routes that hug the shoreline of Ullswater or pass by Haweswater. The ascent to Askham Fell also offers rewarding descents and broad views of the surrounding landscape.