The best cycling routes around Kendal

Embark on the Kentmere and Sadgill loop, a moderate touring bicycle ride spanning 21.9 miles (35.3 km) with an elevation gain of 1220 feet (372 metres), typically completed in about 2 hours and 23 minutes. This route takes you through the tranquil Kentmere Valley, where you'll cycle along quiet, undulating roads and a lovely back lane parallel to the River Kent. Expect picturesque views of high fells, traditional dry stone walls, and diverse terrain including paved surfaces and a fun stretch of gravel between Kentmere and Sadgill.

Starting from Kendal, this touring bicycle loop requires good fitness due to its moderate difficulty and varied terrain. Be prepared for some unpaved sections, especially between Kentmere and Sadgill, where you might need to push your bike for short stretches. The route combines paved roads with cycleways and singletrack, offering a diverse riding experience. Plan for a ride duration of around 2 hours and 23 minutes.

What sets the Kentmere and Sadgill loop apart is its peaceful atmosphere, offering a serene touring bicycle experience away from the Lake District's more frequented paths. Unlike busier trails, you'll find fewer tourists here, even during peak season. This makes it an excellent choice if you're seeking quiet roads and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the fells and river valleys. The route provides a varied and engaging ride for those looking for both challenge and natural beauty.

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle adventure with the River Sprint & Kentmere loop from Kendal. This 21.3 miles (34.3 km) route, taking about 2 hours and 14 minutes, offers 1152 feet (351 metres) of elevation gain through the picturesque Kentmere Valley. You will follow the River Sprint, known for its spectacular waterfalls, and experience a mix of paved roads and some unpaved or gravel tracks, especially between Kentmere and Sadgill. The initial section often uses National Cycle Network 6, providing pleasant riverside cycleways along the River Kent, before heading into the fells.

Starting from the easily accessible town of Kendal, this loop provides an excellent way to explore the Lake District National Park. The trail is generally rated as moderate, requiring good fitness to tackle the undulating hills and some steep ascents. While mostly on paved surfaces, be prepared for some unpaved segments, particularly the fun stretch of gravel between Kentmere and Sadgill. Consider making a stop in Staveley, a popular village along the way, to refresh yourself.

This route stands out as a community favorite, offering touring cyclists a unique blend of road and off-road experiences within a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will cycle through diverse landscapes, from rocky woodland to open fell land, and witness the deep Kentmere valley surrounded by high fells. The combination of stunning natural beauty, including the River Sprint's waterfalls, and varied terrain makes this loop a highly-rated option for exploring the Lake District.

Embark on a difficult touring bicycle adventure through the Lake District National Park, covering 41.6 miles (66.9 km) with a significant 3217 feet (980 metres) of elevation gain. This challenging loop, which typically takes around 4 hours and 33 minutes, offers a diverse landscape of rocky woodland, open fell land, and picturesque valleys. You will experience stunning views of Lake Windermere, especially from spots like Fell Foot Park, and pass through woodlands rich in wildlife, with elevated perspectives from Gummer's How.

Starting from Kendal, this route demands good fitness due to its undulating roads and steep climbs, some reaching gradients as high as 22%. While mostly paved, be ready for varied terrain, including some unpaved sections where you might need to dismount and push your bike. A useful traffic-free link near Newby Bridge helps you avoid the busy A590, making for a more enjoyable ride.

This loop provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the iconic natural beauty of the Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will cross the historic Newby Bridge, marked by its distinguished five-arched stone bridge built in 1651 and a curved weir controlling water flow from Lake Windermere. Kendal itself is a well-regarded cycling hub, and this route is part of a network popular with local cycling clubs, highlighting a strong cycling community in the area.

Embark on a difficult touring bicycle route, the Staveley and Grange-over-Sands loop from Kendal, covering 39.9 miles (64.2 km) with a significant 2181 feet (665 metres) of elevation gain. This challenging ride takes about 4 hours and 6 minutes to complete. You'll experience the diverse landscapes of the Lake District fringes and Morecambe Bay, cycling along quiet country roads and dedicated paths. Enjoy the charming, old-fashioned promenade in Grange-over-Sands, offering expansive views across Morecambe Bay. The route promises a rewarding journey through varied terrain.

This touring bicycle route is well-integrated into the National Cycle Network, specifically Routes 6 and 70, ensuring clear signage throughout your journey. Initial sections from Kendal often follow traffic-free paths along an old canal, providing a pleasant start. The promenade in Grange-over-Sands also offers a car-free cycling environment for a relaxed experience. For additional support, the Morecambe Bay Partnership provides an active travel hub at Grange-over-Sands Station, offering advice on routes and soon, e-bike hire.

As you cycle, you'll pass by historical landmarks like the ruins of Kendal Castle, which provide great views over Kendal. The route offers a good variety of scenery, from dedicated cycle paths to quiet country roads, showcasing the beauty of the region. This loop is a notable way to explore the Lake District fringes and Morecambe Bay, combining historical sights with natural vistas.