Highlight • Mountain Pass
Shap Summit
Road cycling
4.6
(24)
Cycling
5.0
(2)
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Tips
August 8, 2018
Road cycling
October 10, 2019
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Shap Summit
101
riders
90.1km
04:24
1,190m
1,190m
This difficult racebike loop covers 56.0 miles (90.1 km) and features a substantial 3902 feet (1189 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 4 hours and 23 minutes to complete. You will experience the varied terrain of the Lake District, cycling past the serene waters of Ullswater before heading towards the more secluded Haweswater reservoir. The route includes a demanding ascent over Kirkstone Pass, known for its challenging gradients and expansive views. As you continue, you will encounter the distinct moorland scenery surrounding Shap Summit. This ride offers a true test of endurance for experienced cyclists, combining significant climbs with picturesque Lakeland vistas.
To begin this challenging loop, consider starting near Pooley Bridge, where parking is generally available. The route primarily follows paved roads, but be prepared for some unpaved sections that might require you to dismount and push your bike. Kirkstone Pass, a key feature of this ride, presents brutal gradients reaching 20-25%, so ensure you have very good fitness before attempting this section. Plan your start time to allow ample daylight, especially given the route's duration and difficulty.
This route stands out for its comprehensive tour of two major Lake District bodies of water, Ullswater and Haweswater. It uniquely combines the scenic beauty of England's 'most beautiful lake' with the remote, dramatic landscapes surrounding the Haweswater reservoir. The inclusion of Kirkstone Pass, one of the region's most notorious ascents, and the high moorland around Shap Summit, makes this loop a quintessential Lake District cycling adventure. It offers a deep immersion into the diverse natural character of the national park.
69
riders
105km
05:06
1,290m
1,290m
This difficult 65.0-mile (104.6 km) road cycling loop from Penrith challenges you with significant climbs and stunning Lake District scenery. Expect to spend around 5 hours and 6 minutes on the route, tackling an elevation gain of 4228 feet (1288 metres). You will spin along the beautiful Ullswater shore, admiring its mirrored surface and dramatic rock faces before heading into the fells. The trail primarily features well-paved surfaces, guiding you through little villages, rolling hills, and farmland on your return to Penrith.
Planning your ride, be aware that this loop is considered a hard road ride, requiring a very good level of fitness. The route begins and ends in Penrith, an eclectic town with 18th-century cottages and Georgian townhouses. While the research does not specify parking or public transport details, Penrith is a common starting point for Lake District adventures. Always check local conditions before you set out, especially for such a demanding ride.
This loop is a top choice for experienced road cyclists, renowned for its challenging ascents like Kirkstone Pass and Shap Summit. Kirkstone Pass is a formidable climb from the Penrith side, known as the highest pass in the Lake District accessible to road bikes. Shap Summit, though often overlooked, offers a long and arduous ascent followed by a magnificent descent. Along the way, you might consider a stop at "More! The Artisan Bakery," which is considered one of the Lake District's best bakeries and an excellent spot for refreshments.
82
riders
67.5km
03:28
990m
990m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Elevation 440 m
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Wednesday 12 August
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