The best road cycling routes around Askham

Askham, nestled in the Lake District National Park, offers a diverse range of road cycling experiences. You'll find everything from challenging climbs with significant elevation gain, such as those tackling Kirkstone Pass and Shap Summit, to more gentle, scenic rides through quiet country lanes and sheltered valleys. The area caters to various fitness levels, with routes showcasing stunning Cumbrian countryside.

Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Askham area provides routes with significant climbs. A notable option is the "Ullswater & Haweswater loop including Kirkstone Pass & Shap summit," a difficult 90.1 km route. Kirkstone Pass itself is renowned for its tough ascent. Another challenging option involves extending the Howtown loop to Martindale Church and Bordale Hause, offering picturesque spots alongside steep climbs.

Absolutely. For easier rides, consider the Laneham Ferry Lake View – North Leverton Windmill loop from East Markham, an easy 40.3 km path with a gentle elevation gain. The region also offers accessible family loops around Lowther and Askham, and the Lowther Valley route, starting from Penrith and passing through Askham, is a long-moderate 41km ride suitable for a more relaxed pace. You can also find routes like the Daffodil Tearoom – Eakring Windmill loop from East Markham, a moderate 36.5 km trail.

Road cycling around Askham primarily features well-paved surfaces, especially on the quiet country lanes that crisscross the region. However, some moderate routes might include short, unpaved segments. The terrain is characterized by fells, valleys, and expansive views, with significant passes like Kirkstone Pass and Shap Summit offering challenging ascents and descents.

The routes around Askham offer breathtaking views of the Lake District National Park. You'll encounter stunning natural features like Ullswater and Haweswater reservoirs, and significant passes such as Kirkstone Pass. The Clumber Lake is also a beautiful viewpoint. Additionally, routes often pass through charming villages and near historical sites like Lowther Castle & Gardens, and the Fledborough Viaduct.

Yes, many road cycling routes around Askham are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Clumber Park – Back Lane Railway Crossing loop from East Markham, a moderate 68.3 km route, and the easier Laneham Ferry Lake View – North Leverton Windmill loop from East Markham. The "Ullswater & Haweswater loop" is another significant circular option for more experienced riders.

Cycling routes in the Askham area often pass through attractive small villages, providing opportunities for refreshments. Pooley Bridge is home to Granny Dowbekin's Tearoom, a popular stop. You'll also find cafes and pubs in Askham itself and in nearby Bampton, perfect for a break during your ride.

The road cycling routes around Askham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet country lanes, the stunning Lake District scenery, and the diverse terrain that caters to all abilities. Over 1000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied landscape of Askham.

There are over 150 road cycling routes available around Askham, offering a wide variety of distances, difficulties, and scenic experiences within the Lake District National Park.

Many routes around Askham incorporate historical sites and points of interest. Lowther Castle & Gardens, with its dramatic ruins and extensive grounds, is a significant attraction often featured in cycling routes. Other points of interest include the Fledborough Viaduct and Torksey Viaduct. Historic sites such as Brougham Hall and St Peter's Church in Martindale also add interest to rides.

Yes, for those looking for longer rides, Askham serves as an excellent starting point. The "Ullswater & Haweswater loop including Kirkstone Pass & Shap summit" is a substantial 90.1 km route. Another option is the Quiet Country Lane – Daffodil Tearoom loop from East Drayton, which covers 81.5 km. The Lowther Valley route, starting from Penrith and passing through Askham, is a long-moderate 41km ride that can be extended towards Haweswater Reservoir for an even greater distance.