The best gravel rides around Ullswater

Ullswater offers a selection of 11 gravel bike trails, catering to various preferences. While many routes feature challenging terrain, there are options for different ability levels to explore the region's diverse landscapes.

The terrain around Ullswater is quite varied. You'll encounter mountainous sections, expansive moorland, and gentler rolling hills with woodlands. The Lake District is known for its 'lumpy' character, meaning significant ascents and descents are common, often involving bridleways and tracks. Routes can range from demanding climbs to more accessible paths through quiet lanes.

Ullswater's gravel trails offer stunning natural beauty and interesting landmarks. You might pass by the tranquil waters of Hallinhag Wood, enjoy views from Silver Point Viewpoint, or even catch a glimpse of the famous Aira Force Waterfall. The region is also home to Glencoyne Bay, known for inspiring Wordsworth's 'Daffodils', and the historic Lowther Castle Estate.

While many routes in Ullswater are rated as difficult, the Moor Divock area, accessible from Pooley Bridge, offers an extensive network of bridleways and tracks that are ideal for less technical gravel biking. These routes feature moderate angles and lengths, making them suitable for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed ride. The Lowther Castle Estate also provides family-friendly cycle routes.

The gravel bike trails around Ullswater are generally considered challenging, with 7 out of 11 routes rated as difficult. They often involve significant elevation gains and descents, characteristic of the Lake District's mountainous terrain. For example, the Greystoke Market Cross – Greystoke Village Cross loop from Newbiggin includes over 765 meters of ascent, and the Caldew Trail – Bridleway Around Blencathra loop from Troutbeck features over 787 meters of climbing.

The gravel biking experience in Ullswater is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 20 reviews. Riders frequently praise the stunning and varied landscapes, the mix of challenging and serene routes, and the tranquility of being in the mountains. The diverse attractions and natural features also contribute to a memorable adventure.

Yes, public transport options can help you access various points around Ullswater. The Ullswater 'Steamers' provide a unique way to combine boat trips with your rides, connecting villages like Pooley Bridge, Howtown, Aira Force, and Glenridding. This allows for flexible exploration, letting you tackle sections of routes and return by steamer.

Yes, there are several circular routes available. For instance, the Greystoke Market Cross – Greystoke Village Cross loop from Newbiggin is a popular 29.7-mile circular trail. Another option is the View of Ullswater – View of Ullswater loop from Askham, which offers a 28.5-mile ride with scenic views.

Parking is available in the charming villages around Ullswater, such as Pooley Bridge, Glenridding, and Patterdale, which serve as excellent starting points for many routes. For specific trails like Moor Divock, parking can often be found near Pooley Bridge. For the Old Coach Road, you might find parking options in areas like Dockray or St John's in the Vale, depending on your starting point.

The Lake District offers beautiful scenery year-round, but spring and autumn generally provide the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking, with milder temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Summer can be popular but also busier. Winter cycling is possible, but trails can be challenging due to weather conditions, requiring appropriate gear and caution.

Yes, the Lowther Castle – View of Ullswater loop from Penrith (North Lakes) is a 24.9-mile trail that leads directly through the Lowther Castle Estate. This area offers an excellent network of family-friendly cycle routes and trails through ancient woodland and pastures, leading to scenic destinations like Askham Fell and Pooley Bridge.

Absolutely. The Caldew Trail – Bridleway Around Blencathra loop from Troutbeck is a popular route that offers impressive views towards Blencathra, one of the Lake District's iconic mountains. This difficult 27.1-mile path provides a rewarding experience for those seeking mountain vistas.