The best road cycling routes around Orton

There are over 120 road cycling routes around Orton, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes over 2,400 times.

Road cycling around Orton offers diverse landscapes, from the unique limestone pavements of Orton Scar to the dramatic, rounded forms of the Howgill Fells. You'll also experience the tranquil beauty of the Eden Valley, with its green landscapes and traditional Cumbrian villages. Many routes feature mostly paved surfaces, ensuring a smooth ride.

Yes, Orton offers a good selection of routes suitable for beginners or those seeking an easier ride. There are 29 easy routes available, providing gentler terrain and manageable distances. For example, the View of Sunbiggin Tarn – Sunbiggin Tarn loop from Tebay is an easy 16-mile (25.8 km) route with moderate elevation gain.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Orton has 25 difficult routes. These often feature significant elevation gains and longer distances. A notable challenging route is the View of Sunbiggin Tarn – Appleby-in-Westmorland loop from Tebay, which spans over 61 miles (98.4 km) with more than 3,700 feet (1129 m) of climbing, offering extensive views of Sunbiggin Tarn and the Eden Valley.

The road cycling routes around Orton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's quiet road networks, the stunning natural beauty of the limestone pavements and Howgill Fells, and the variety of routes catering to different ability levels.

Absolutely. Many routes offer scenic viewpoints and pass by notable landmarks. You can expect views of the Lune Gorge, Orton Scar, and the unique Sunbiggin Tarn. The area also features historical points of interest like the ancient Gamelands Stone Circle and Castle Folds. Some routes may even lead you past Andy Goldsworthy's 'Pinfold' sculptures integrated into the landscape.

Yes, the area around Orton is rich in natural attractions including waterfalls and lakes. You might encounter highlights such as Cautley Spout Waterfall or Rutter Force Waterfall. For lakes, Sunbiggin Tarn is a rare limestone tarn and a Site of Special Scientific Interest that many routes pass by or loop around.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Orton are circular, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location. For example, the View of the Lune Gorge – View of Lune Gorge loop from Orton is a moderate 30.8-mile (49.7 km) circular path, and the Pendragon Castle ruins – View of Sunbiggin Tarn loop from Orton is another popular 31.5-mile (50.7 km) loop.

The region around Orton offers enjoyable cycling experiences throughout much of the year. Spring and summer provide pleasant weather for exploring the diverse landscapes. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the countryside. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially wet or icy conditions, especially on higher fells.

Yes, the network of quiet lanes connects charming villages and hamlets such as Crosby Ravensworth, Maulds Meaburn, and Great Asby. These villages often offer opportunities for refreshments at local cafes or pubs, allowing you to take a break and experience local life during your ride.

For more detailed information on the unique landscape and rich heritage of Orton and the surrounding Eden Valley, you can visit the official Eden Valley tourism website: visiteden.co.uk.

Yes, the Orton area incorporates sections of established national cycleways. You can find parts of the Pennine Cycleway (68), the Walney to Wear and Whitby Cycle Route (20), and National Route 71 within the region, offering connections to broader cycling networks.