The best traffic-free bike rides around Cleator Moor

There are 8 dedicated traffic-free touring cycling routes around Cleator Moor featured in this guide. These routes offer a mix of moderate and difficult options, ensuring a suitable ride for various skill levels.

The traffic-free routes around Cleator Moor often utilize former railway lines, such as sections of the Cleator Moor Cycleway and the Sustrans C2C route. This means you can expect well-maintained paths, often tarmacked or with good gravel surfaces, providing smooth riding. Some routes, particularly those venturing into the Ennerdale Valley, may include more varied gravel tracks and gentle climbs, offering a blend of easy and more challenging sections.

Yes, several routes offer circular options starting and ending near Cleator Moor. For example, the River Liza Gravel Track – Ennerdale Water Lakeside Path loop from Cleator Moor is a challenging 40.8 km circular route, while the View of Ennerdale – View of Ennerdale Water loop from Cleator Moor offers a moderate 22.2 km option.

Many routes offer stunning natural beauty and points of interest. You can cycle past the serene Ennerdale Water, the most westerly and remote of the Lake District lakes. Other highlights include viewpoints like Robin Hood's Chair and various fells such as Blake Fell Summit and Crag Fell Summit, offering panoramic views of the Cumbrian Coast and the Lake District mountains.

Yes, the Cleator Moor Cycleway, which forms part of the wider network, is particularly suitable for families due to its traffic-free nature and generally well-maintained surfaces. Routes that stick to these dedicated paths, avoiding more challenging gravel sections or significant elevation, are ideal for family outings. The gentle gradients and safe environment make it a great choice for cyclists of varying ages and abilities.

Many of the traffic-free routes, especially those on former railway lines and dedicated cycle paths, are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas where livestock may be present or near busy sections. Please be mindful of other path users and ensure your dog is well-behaved.

Cleator Moor itself offers amenities for cyclists, including cafes and pubs. The Gather Café is a popular spot mentioned in some routes, such as the View of Ennerdale Water – The Gather Café loop from Cleator Moor. For accommodation, Cleator Moor has options like the Parkside Hotel, and nearby towns also provide various choices. It's advisable to check opening times and availability, especially during off-peak seasons.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, but paths can be busier. While cycling is possible in winter, be prepared for colder weather, potential ice, and shorter daylight hours. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.

Cleator Moor is integrated into the local transport network. While direct public transport links to the start of every specific route might vary, Cleator Moor itself is accessible by bus services connecting it to larger towns like Whitehaven. From the town center, many of the traffic-free paths are easily reachable, allowing you to start your ride without needing a car.

Parking is generally available in and around Cleator Moor. Specific car parks may be located near popular access points for the Cleator Moor Cycleway or other major routes. It's recommended to look for designated parking areas in the town or at trailheads to ensure safe and convenient access to the traffic-free paths.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience around Cleator Moor, with an average score of 4.17 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the traffic-free paths, the stunning views of the Lake District fells and Ennerdale Water, and the sense of escape from busy roads. The well-maintained surfaces and varied landscapes are frequently highlighted as key attractions.

Yes, Cleator Moor's proximity to the coast means you can access coastal routes. The Waggon Way Coastal Path – Forest Path in St Bees loop from Weddicar is a moderate 36.1 km route that incorporates coastal sections, offering views of the dramatic St Bees Head and its significant birdlife, marking the start of Wainwright's Coast to Coast Walk.