4.5
(8)
111
riders
11
rides
Mountain biking around Hunsonby offers a diverse landscape characterized by rolling hills, river valleys, and open moorland. The region provides a mix of terrain, from established tracks to more challenging ascents, suitable for various skill levels. Trails often navigate through agricultural land and connect to areas with historical features, providing varied riding experiences.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
4.0
(3)
13
riders
50.6km
04:27
1,160m
1,160m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
81.6km
06:22
1,500m
1,500m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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8
riders
20.0km
01:40
310m
310m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
1
riders
35.1km
02:27
540m
540m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4
riders
16.9km
01:37
460m
460m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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If you have a full hour to hike down from the 4km from the top until the gravel road and don't mind getting wet feet a muddy bike then this is 100% worth it! Otherwise, you might be better off avoiding...
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The Cockpit is a 3,500–5,000-year-old Bronze Age stone circle (27m diameter) located on Moor Divock in the Lake District National Park, overlooking Ullswater. It features roughly 70–75, mainly recumbent, stones set into a circular embankment, likely serving as a prehistoric gathering place. It is accessible via walking trails from Askham or Pooley Bridge.
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See also https://youtu.be/nwLbBGsuhsI?si=76Hnn6wo_SsBwWXE Cycling video with the ascent from Melmerby
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Hartside Cross is the summit of the A686 between Penrith and Alston. It reaches 1,886 feet (575m) with great views because of the scrubby moorland.
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Before you reach the tarmac road you have to drag, push, pull, lift the bike through difficult, uneven surfaces along the side of the stream. There are dangerous sections within the trail adjacent to the river just before reaching this bridge area
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It is wet here, soggy surfaces mean the bike slows down and sometimes come to a standstill. Summer weather would be easier. You are in the clouds in these elevated areas
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There are over a dozen mountain bike trails around Hunsonby listed on komoot, offering a variety of experiences across different difficulty levels.
Yes, Hunsonby offers some routes suitable for beginners. While many trails are moderate, there is at least one easy route available. These trails typically feature less challenging terrain and elevation changes, making them ideal for those new to mountain biking.
Experienced mountain bikers will find several challenging routes. For example, the Greg's Hut – Greg's Hut loop from Skirwith is a difficult 31.4-mile (50.6 km) trail with significant elevation gain across open fells. Another demanding option is the Post Box Pantry – Greg's Hut loop from Penrith (North Lakes), an extensive 51.2-mile (82.5 km) path offering panoramic views.
While many routes are moderate to difficult, families looking for a less strenuous ride might consider the easier sections of trails or explore routes with minimal elevation. The region's network includes paths through agricultural land that can be suitable for a family outing, though specific 'family-friendly' designated routes are limited.
The best time for mountain biking in Hunsonby is generally from spring through autumn when the weather is milder and trails are drier. Winter conditions can be challenging due to colder temperatures, potential for snow or ice, and muddier trails, especially on open moorland sections.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Hunsonby are designed as circular loops. For instance, the Cockpit Stone Circle – The Cockpit Stone Circle loop from Penrith is a moderate 12.5-mile (20.1 km) circular route that takes you past historical sites.
Mountain bike trails in Hunsonby vary significantly in length and duration. You can find shorter routes like the Cockpit Stone Circle loop, which is about 12.5 miles (20.1 km) and takes around 1 hour 40 minutes. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Post Box Pantry – Greg's Hut loop, can be over 50 miles (80 km) and require more than 6 hours to complete.
Trailheads for mountain bike routes around Hunsonby often start from nearby towns and villages such as Skirwith or Penrith. Many routes are loops, allowing you to begin and end in the same location, often with convenient access points.
Yes, the region's rolling hills and open moorland offer numerous opportunities for panoramic views. Trails like the Post Box Pantry – Greg's Hut loop provide extensive riding with sweeping vistas of the surrounding Cumbrian landscape and fells.
Many trails pass by interesting natural and historical landmarks. You might encounter sites like the ancient Long Meg and Her Daughters Stone Circle, the impressive Cross Fell Summit, or the historic Penrith Castle. Some routes also follow river valleys, offering scenic views of the River Eden.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 7 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscape, which includes rolling hills, river valleys, and open moorland, providing a varied riding experience for different skill levels.
While specific routes are not explicitly listed with pub stops, many trails start or pass through villages and towns like Penrith, which offer amenities such as pubs and cafes. The River Greta – Threlkeld Coffee Shop loop from Penrith (North Lakes), for example, suggests a coffee shop as part of its name, indicating opportunities for refreshments.


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