The best gravel rides around Shap

Gravel biking around Shap offers a diverse mix of terrain, including unpaved roads, bridleways, and some paved sections. You'll encounter open moorland, rolling hills, and valleys, often with significant ascents and descents. The routes are generally low-traffic, allowing for an immersive experience in the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales landscape.

The gravel bike routes in Shap are primarily suited for experienced riders, with all listed komoot tours rated as difficult. They often feature significant climbs and descents, requiring good fitness. Some sections may even be technical, occasionally requiring riders to push their bikes.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes around Shap are designed as loops. For example, you can explore the View of Ullswater – View of Ullswater loop from Askham, or the Heart-Shaped Wood, Lune Valley – Shap Summit loop from Tebay. Another option is the View of Haweswater – Haweswater Dam loop from Bampton, which takes you through the scenic Haweswater area.

The Shap area is rich with stunning vistas and natural landmarks. Routes often provide breathtaking views of Ullswater, Haweswater, and the majestic peaks of Blencathra and Skiddaw. You might also pass by the serene Kentmere reservoir or the historic Askham Fell. Specific viewpoints include Loadpot Hill Trig Point, Grey Crag Summit, and Selside Pike Summit Shelter.

Yes, the region boasts several historic and ancient features. You can find Bronze Age landmarks on Askham Fell, or ride along the ancient Old Coach Road. Some routes, like those around Shap Rural, may pass by The Cockpit Stone Circle or offer views of Lowther Castle. The Mardale Head area also holds historical significance.

The gravel bike routes around Shap vary in length and duration. For instance, the Heart-Shaped Wood, Lune Valley – View of Borrowdale Valley loop from Tebay is about 18.4 km (11.4 miles) and takes around 1 hour 52 minutes. Longer rides, like the Heart-Shaped Wood, Lune Valley – Shap Summit loop from Tebay, cover approximately 34.2 km (21.3 miles) and can take over 2 hours 20 minutes.

The gravel biking routes in Shap are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 3.0 stars from over 7 reviews. Many of the 55+ gravel bikers who have explored the area praise the challenging terrain and the stunning, immersive natural scenery.

Absolutely. The region is dotted with beautiful water features. The View of Ullswater – View of Ullswater loop from Askham offers views of Ullswater. You can also ride around Haweswater, with routes like the View of Haweswater – Haweswater Dam loop from Bampton. The Orton, Shap & Borrowdale Loop also includes a ford over the Borrow Beck river.

Common starting points for gravel bike tours in the Shap area include Askham, Bampton, and Tebay. For example, the Ullswater loop starts from Askham, while several routes like the Shap Summit loop begin from Tebay.

While gravel biking in Shap is enjoyable across multiple seasons, spring and autumn often offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Summer provides longer daylight hours, but can also see more visitors. Winter rides are possible but require appropriate gear and awareness of potentially challenging conditions due to snow or ice, especially on higher ground.

Yes, Shap Summit is a prominent feature in several gravel biking routes. The Heart-Shaped Wood, Lune Valley – Shap Summit loop from Tebay and the Shap Summit loop from Tebay both incorporate this elevated point, offering both a challenge and panoramic views.