The best gravel rides around Penrith

Gravel biking around Penrith offers a diverse landscape, from rolling fells and open moorland to forest tracks and quiet country lanes. You'll encounter varied surfaces, including gravel, tarmac, and some potentially challenging climbs, especially as you head towards higher elevations like Great Dun Fell. The region is on the edge of the Lake District National Park, providing stunning views of large lakes such as Ullswater.

Yes, while many routes are challenging, there are options for moderate riders. For example, the Lowther Castle – Askham Fell loop from Clifton is a moderate 10.8-mile (17.4 km) path that takes around 1 hour 41 minutes to complete. This route offers a good balance of scenic beauty and manageable effort.

Many routes offer breathtaking views and pass by significant landmarks. You can enjoy expansive views of Ullswater, such as from the View of Ullswater from the Ullswater Way or the Barren Tree on the North Shore of Ullswater. Historical sites like Lowther Castle and ancient monuments like The Cockpit Stone Circle are also accessible along various routes. For panoramic vistas, consider routes that ascend to points like the Summit of Little Mell Fell or Arthur's Pike summit.

The duration of gravel bike rides around Penrith varies significantly depending on the route's length and difficulty. Shorter, moderate loops like the Lowther Castle – Askham Fell loop from Clifton can be completed in under two hours. More challenging and longer routes, such as the Greg's Hut – Great Dun Fell Access Road loop from Skirwith, which is over 30 miles (49.7 km) with significant elevation gain, can take over four hours.

Absolutely. Penrith offers several challenging routes for experienced gravel bikers. The Skiddaw House Hostel – Caldew Trail loop from Penrith (North Lakes) is a demanding 43.7-mile (70.3 km) trail that leads through remote fells and along the Caldew Trail, often taking around 4 hours 43 minutes to complete. Another challenging option is the Greg's Hut – Great Dun Fell Access Road loop from Skirwith, which features significant climbs towards Great Dun Fell.

The best season for gravel biking around Penrith is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is milder and trails are drier. During these months, you'll experience the full beauty of the fells and lakes. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures, potential snow or ice at higher elevations, and shorter daylight hours, which can make some routes more challenging.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes around Penrith are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For instance, the View of Ullswater – View of Ullswater loop from Askham is a popular circular route offering expansive views. Another excellent loop is the Lowther Castle – View of Ullswater loop from Penrith (North Lakes), which combines historical sights with scenic lake vistas.

Penrith is well-connected by public transport, making it a good base for gravel biking. Penrith railway station is on the West Coast Main Line, offering direct services from major cities. Local bus services also operate within the Lake District and surrounding areas, which can help you reach various starting points for routes. It's advisable to check bus routes and timetables in advance, especially for more remote trailheads, and confirm bike carriage policies.

The gravel biking routes around Penrith are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders frequently praise the diverse terrain, the stunning views of Ullswater and the fells, and the combination of historical landmarks with natural beauty. Many appreciate the variety of options, from moderate loops to challenging climbs, catering to different skill levels.

While popular routes can see more traffic, Penrith's location on the edge of the Lake District means you can often find quieter trails, especially away from the immediate vicinity of Ullswater. Routes that venture into the remote fells, such as sections of the Skiddaw House Hostel – Caldew Trail loop from Penrith (North Lakes), tend to be less frequented, offering a more solitary riding experience amidst wild landscapes.