The best traffic-free bike rides around Devoke Water

There are over 20 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Devoke Water. These routes offer a range of difficulties, from easy spins to challenging climbs, ensuring there's something for every road cyclist seeking quiet roads in the Lake District.

The terrain around Devoke Water is known for its wild and remote feel, featuring significant elevation gains and varied surfaces. You can expect constant ups and downs, with some climbs reaching gradients of 13% or even 16%. Routes range from easy, like the Hardknott Pass Climb – The Woolpack Inn loop from Eskdale, to difficult, such as the demanding Birker Fell Road – Birker Fell loop from Boot, which includes nearly 1000 meters of climbing.

While many routes in the Devoke Water area are challenging, there are easier options suitable for families or those new to road cycling. The Hardknott Pass Climb – The Woolpack Inn loop from Eskdale is rated as easy, offering a shorter distance and less intense climbing compared to other routes in the region. Always check the route details for specific elevation and distance to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.

The best time to cycle around Devoke Water is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. The region's remote nature means roads can be exposed, so checking the forecast for wind and rain is crucial. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear and caution due to potentially icy conditions and shorter daylight.

The routes offer breathtaking views across the Lake District National Park, including distant fells like Scafell Pike, Esk Pike, and Bowfell. On clear days, you might even spot the Irish Sea and the Isle of Man. Devoke Water itself, with its dark-hued water and old boathouse, is a picturesque focal point. The road over Birker Fell, featured in routes like the Birker Fell Road – Birker Fell loop from Boot, provides expansive moorland vistas.

Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes around Devoke Water are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the View of Wast Water – Wast Water loop from Eskdale and the Quiet Lanes from Ravenglass – Hardknott Pass Climb loop from Eskdale, providing varied scenery without retracing your path.

The Devoke Water area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Cyclists frequently praise the region for its remote and wild landscapes, the challenge of its gruelling hills and steep climbs, and the sheer beauty of the breathtaking views across the fells. The quiet roads are particularly appreciated by those seeking a true escape from traffic.

Parking is typically available in the villages and hamlets that serve as starting points for many routes, such as Eskdale or Boot. Given the remote nature of the area, specific car parks might be small or limited. Always check local signage for parking restrictions and fees, and consider arriving early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.

While the Devoke Water area is remote, you can find refreshment stops in nearby villages. Eskdale, for example, is a common starting point and offers options like The Woolpack Inn, which is featured in the Hardknott Pass Climb – The Woolpack Inn loop from Eskdale. It's always advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer or more remote sections, as facilities can be sparse.

For experienced road cyclists seeking a significant challenge, routes like the Wrynose Pass – Hardknott Pass Hairpin Bends loop from Eskdale offer substantial elevation gains, with nearly 1000 meters of climbing over 28 kilometers. These routes often include iconic Lake District passes known for their steep gradients and demanding ascents, providing a truly rewarding experience.

Public transport options to the immediate Devoke Water area are limited due to its remote location. However, you can reach nearby valleys like Eskdale, which serves as a starting point for several routes, via the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. From these points, you can begin your cycling adventure. Planning ahead and checking schedules is essential.