The best road cycling routes around Blea Water
4.3
(3)
535
riders
11
rides
Road cycling routes around Blea Water are situated in the Lake District, characterized by dramatic landscapes and challenging ascents. The region features an amphitheater of crags, offering mountain vistas of the Langdale Pikes, Pike of Blisco, and Side Pike. Road cyclists encounter demanding climbs, including sections with gradients up to 18%, navigating through valleys and past tranquil waters.
Best road cycling routes around Blea Water
- The most popular road cycling route is Kentmere Valley Road – Stone Bridge Near Staveley…
Last updated: July 9, 2026
34
riders
13.6km
00:36
100m
100m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
66
riders
10.5km
00:47
410m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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21
riders
10.7km
00:40
290m
290m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
21
riders
18.6km
01:21
690m
690m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
15
riders
8.80km
00:35
280m
280m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Book a table for food in advance, book the campsite in advance too
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Kirkstone Pass, at 454 metres (1,489 feet), is the highest mountain pass in the Lake District that is open to vehicular traffic. It is a gorgeous pass, flanked by Red Screes and St Ravens Edge. It connects Ambleside via 'The Struggle' to Patterdale. It also connects Troutbeck to Patterdale on the A592, though this is closed due to a landslide at the moment (May 2026). The pub is great and normally opens at midday on weekdays, and there is a large public car park just across the road. This can be a great starting point for a variety of treks, but you are in for a sharp, stiff ascent to start off with whichever flanking hill you decide to ascend.
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All I can say is, it's spectacular and challenging by car, bike, or motorcycle! Just be careful, the road is narrow, and unfortunately, there are always some crazy people who think they're the only ones on the road! Don't stress, bring plenty of water, and enjoy the outdoors! But it's not called "STRUGGLE" for nothing!
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Plenty of places to grab some food and buy some hiking gear or shoes for your doggo
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Starting the Kirkstone Pass climb from the Hartsop direction on the A592, prepare for a long, sustained ascent rather than an immediate shock to the system. As you pedal south, leaving Brothers Water shimmering beside you, settle into a steady rhythm; much of this scenic climb averages around 5-6%. Soak in the beautiful Lake District views opening up down the Patterdale valley behind you. While known as the 'easier' side compared to The Struggle, don't underestimate the final sections. Experience the gradient kicking up noticeably steeper, potentially into double digits at 10-12%, demanding a final hard effort as you approach the famous Kirkstone Pass Inn perched high at the summit. Feel the landscape become more exposed as you gain height, finishing this classic, rewarding Lakeland ascent.
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The church dates from the 16th century. Just across the road from the church is the village hall which is one of the few places you can park in the village. There is a honesty box for the car park fee with a suggested payment of £3.00. There are very few places so as stated above get their early.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Blea Water?
There are over 10 road cycling routes around Blea Water, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. The region is known for its dramatic landscapes and challenging ascents.
What are the typical difficulty levels for road cycling routes in Blea Water?
The routes around Blea Water range from easy valley loops to more challenging climbs. You'll find 7 easy routes, 5 moderate routes, and 2 difficult routes, with some sections featuring gradients up to 18%.
Are there any easy or family-friendly road cycling routes in the area?
Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for a more relaxed ride. An example is the Kentmere Valley Road – Stone Bridge Near Staveley loop from Kentmere, an 8.5-mile trail offering a gentle ride through the Kentmere Valley.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Blea Water?
Road cycling around Blea Water is characterized by challenging mountain passes, scenic valley roads, and views of craggy fells. You'll navigate through valleys and past tranquil waters, often encountering significant elevation changes.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Blea Water?
The routes in Blea Water are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 5 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning mountain vistas, including views of the Langdale Pikes, Pike of Blisco, and Side Pike, as well as the challenging yet rewarding climbs.
Are there any circular road cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the routes around Blea Water are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For instance, the Bridge House, Ambleside – Kirkstone Pass loop from Red Screes is a moderate 6.4-mile circular path.
What are some of the more challenging road cycling routes in Blea Water?
For those seeking a challenge, routes like the Kirkstone Pass – Kirkstone Pass Inn loop from Red Screes offer demanding terrain around Kirkstone Pass, featuring significant elevation gain and steep gradients.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling in Blea Water?
The Lake District, including Blea Water, is beautiful year-round, but late spring to early autumn (May to October) generally offers the most favorable weather for road cycling, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. Be prepared for changeable weather at any time.
Where can I find parking for road cycling routes near Blea Water?
Parking in the Lake District often involves designated car parks in villages or at trailheads. Specific parking information can usually be found on individual route pages or by checking local council websites for the nearest towns like Ambleside or Kentmere.
Are there places to stop for refreshments like cafes or pubs along the routes?
Yes, the Lake District has numerous villages and towns with cafes, pubs, and shops where you can refuel. Routes passing through or near places like Kentmere or those leading towards Kirkstone Pass often have options for refreshments, such as the Kirkstone Pass Inn.
What kind of views or scenic points can I expect while cycling?
Road cycling routes around Blea Water offer spectacular mountain vistas, including views of the Langdale Pikes, Pike of Blisco, and Side Pike. You'll also pass tranquil waters and experience the dramatic craggy fells characteristic of the Lake District.
Are there any moderate routes that offer a good balance of challenge and scenery?
Absolutely. The Kirkstone Pass – Kirkstone Pass Inn loop from Caudale Moor is an easy-to-moderate 6.6-mile route that provides a good balance, leading through scenic terrain with manageable climbs.
Most popular routes around Blea Water
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