The best cycling routes around Natland

There are over 300 touring cycling routes in the Natland area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find everything from easy canal paths to more challenging routes with significant elevation gain.

Touring cycling around Natland features diverse terrain. You can expect flat sections along the historic Lancaster Canal, scenic routes beside the River Kent, and more challenging ascents like the one towards Helm Hill. The area is characterized by open countryside, providing a mix of rural tranquility and varied landscapes.

Yes, Natland offers several easy touring cycling routes suitable for families. The former Lancaster Canal towpath provides relatively flat and traffic-free sections, ideal for a relaxed ride. While specific family-friendly routes aren't highlighted in detail, the presence of 47 easy routes suggests good options for a gentle outing.

As you cycle around Natland, you can explore several interesting landmarks and attractions. Consider visiting Sizergh Castle and Gardens, a National Trust property with estate trails and a tea room. Other points of interest include The Mushroom on Scout Scar, offering attractive views, and the historic Lancaster Canal Trail: Natland–Sedgwick Section. You might also pass by Sedgwick House or the unique Fairy Steps.

Yes, many touring cycling routes around Natland are designed as loops. For example, the Lancaster Canal Trail – Brigsteer Park Road loop from Oxenholme Lake District offers a moderate 15.8-mile circular ride. Another option is the more challenging Arnside Knott Trails – Eden Kitchen loop from Oxenholme Lake District, which covers 43.9 miles with significant elevation.

The touring cycling routes in Natland are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 350 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the tranquility of the open countryside, and the scenic sections along the River Kent and the historic Lancaster Canal.

Absolutely. The historic Lancaster Canal is a prominent feature in many touring cycling routes around Natland. You can explore sections of it on routes like the Lancaster Canal Trail – Barley Bridge Weir loop from Oxenholme Lake District, or the longer Lancaster Canal Trail – View of Smardale Gill Viaduct loop from Oxenholme Lake District.

Yes, Natland offers plenty of challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists. Over 140 routes are rated as difficult, featuring significant elevation gains and longer distances. An example is the Whitbarrow Scar – Greendale Wood loop from Oxenholme Lake District, which includes substantial climbing over its 46.7-mile length.

Along your cycling journey, you'll find several places to stop. Sizergh Castle and Gardens has a tea room, and nearby Low Sizergh Barn offers a farm shop and tea room. The area around Natland and along the canal also has various cafes and pubs, perfect for a break.

While not directly within the Lake District National Park, Natland's proximity makes it an excellent base. Its location allows access to broader cycling networks, including National Cycle Route 70 which passes through nearby Sizergh Castle, connecting to areas like Ulverston and Grange-over-Sands. This provides a blend of serene countryside cycling with access to more extensive regional routes.

The open countryside and varied terrain around Natland make it suitable for touring cycling through much of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for enjoying the scenic routes along the River Kent and through the fields. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter cycling is possible, though conditions may vary, especially on higher ground like Helm Hill.

Absolutely. Helm Hill, located to the east of Natland, rises steeply to 185 meters and provides fine viewpoints over the surrounding area. Additionally, routes that pass by Scout Scar offer attractive walks and views, allowing cyclists to take in the panoramic beauty of the Cumbrian landscape.