The best traffic-free bike rides around Killington Reservoir

There are 12 carefully curated no-traffic gravel bike routes around Killington Reservoir, ranging from easy to difficult. This selection ensures a quiet and enjoyable ride away from vehicular traffic.

Yes, there is one easy, traffic-free gravel bike trail available. For a moderate option that's still very accessible, consider the Heversham Head loop from Kendal. This 14.5-mile (23.3 km) route offers panoramic views of Morecambe Bay and the Lakeland fells, providing a great experience without heavy traffic.

The no-traffic gravel trails around Killington Reservoir offer diverse scenery, from continuous views across the reservoir and towards distant fells to open pastures and quiet woodlands. You'll also find sections with views of the Lake District mountains and the historic Lowgill Viaduct. The area is a haven for wildlife, making it excellent for birdwatching.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 8 difficult routes. One such option is the Gated Road South of Shap – River Sprint loop from Kendal, which covers nearly 30 km with significant elevation gain, offering a demanding yet rewarding experience away from traffic.

Many of the gravel bike routes around Killington Reservoir are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Sizergh Castle loop from Kendal is a moderate circular route that takes you through varied terrain, including quiet roads and gravel paths.

Gravel biking around Killington Reservoir is enjoyable throughout the year, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter can be challenging with potentially wet or icy conditions, though the quiet trails can be very atmospheric.

Yes, Killington Reservoir is conveniently located next to a motorway service station which provides ample parking facilities. This makes it easy to access the various no-traffic gravel bike trails in the area.

Absolutely. The region is rich in local heritage. You might encounter historic sites like Killington Hall and All Saints Church, which date back to the 14th and 17th centuries, respectively. The historic Lowgill Viaduct is also a notable landmark that can be seen on some routes.

The no-traffic gravel bike routes around Killington Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 24 ratings. Riders often praise the quiet, scenic nature of the trails and the opportunity to explore the beautiful Cumbrian landscape away from busy roads.

The motorway service station adjacent to Killington Reservoir offers facilities including a restaurant, which can be a convenient stop for refreshments before or after your ride. Additionally, the nearby towns and villages may offer local cafes and pubs, though these might require a slight detour from the immediate trails.

The no-traffic gravel bike trails vary significantly in length. You can find shorter routes like the Heversham Head loop from Kendal at approximately 23 km, up to longer, more challenging rides such as The Lyth Valley via Arnside and Silverdale National Landscape from Kendal, which spans over 63 km.