The best traffic-free bike rides around Buttermere

There are 4 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Buttermere featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of distances and difficulties, allowing you to choose an adventure that suits your fitness level and time.

Yes, for an easier, traffic-free experience, consider the Swinside Inn – Newlands Church loop from Stair. This route is approximately 11 km long with minimal elevation gain, making it a pleasant option for those looking for a gentle ride through the scenic Buttermere area.

The routes offer stunning views of the Lake District's classic U-shaped glacial valleys, dramatic fells, and picturesque ribbon lakes. You'll cycle alongside tranquil waters like Buttermere Lake and Crummock Water, with opportunities to see ancient woodlands like Burtness Wood and impressive fells in the distance.

Absolutely. For a more demanding ride, the View of Loweswater – The Gather Café loop from Brackenthwaite covers over 68 km with significant elevation, testing your climbing abilities while rewarding you with spectacular vistas. Another challenging option is the View of Loweswater – Wast Water loop from Whinlatter Pass, which extends to nearly 97 km.

Many of the routes in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Loweswater – View of Loweswater loop from Brackenthwaite is a moderate 24 km circular route that takes you through beautiful lakeside scenery.

Beyond the natural beauty, you might encounter unique features like the Buttermere Tunnel, a historic man-made passage. You'll also pass by the serene Buttermere Lake and the dramatic Sourmilk Gill Waterfall, offering perfect spots for a break or photo opportunity.

Yes, Buttermere Lake is a popular spot for wild swimming, known for its clear waters and stunning backdrop. You'll find a designated Buttermere Wild Swimming Spot that can be accessed from some of the nearby cycling paths, offering a refreshing dip after your ride.

The Buttermere area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.64 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning, tranquil scenery, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the overall peaceful environment for cycling away from heavy traffic.

While specific public transport links to every starting point aren't detailed, Buttermere is part of the Lake District National Park, which has some bus services connecting key villages. It's advisable to check local bus timetables for routes serving Buttermere, Stair, or Brackenthwaite to plan your access.

Spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Buttermere. The weather is generally milder, and the landscape is particularly beautiful with blooming wildflowers or vibrant autumn foliage. Summer can also be excellent, though popular areas might see more visitors. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear and caution due to potentially icy conditions on higher passes.

Yes, the Buttermere valley and surrounding areas offer several options for refreshments. You'll find local cafes and traditional pubs in villages like Buttermere itself, and some routes, such as the View of Loweswater – The Gather Café loop from Brackenthwaite, even highlight specific establishments along the way.