The best traffic-free bike rides around Selside And Fawcett Forest

There are 6 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Selside And Fawcett Forest, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. These routes are designed to keep you away from busy roads, providing a peaceful journey through the region's beautiful landscapes.

Yes, for those seeking an easier ride, the River Mint – Blind Lane loop from Selside is an excellent choice. This route covers just over 10 km with a modest elevation gain, making it ideal for beginners or a relaxed family outing.

The no-traffic routes in Selside And Fawcett Forest offer a mix of terrain. While many routes utilize quiet country lanes and dedicated cycle paths, some, like the Borrowdale Valley gravel track – View of Borrowdale Valley loop from Muddy Brow, incorporate unpaved segments. These gravel tracks provide a more adventurous feel, winding through picturesque valleys and offering stunning views.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists looking for a challenge, the Heart-Shaped Wood, Lune Valley – Shap Summit loop from Borrow Beck is a demanding option. This route features significant elevation gain over its 29 km, including climbs towards Shap Summit, rewarding riders with expansive views across the region.

The routes offer access to several scenic spots. You can enjoy magnificent views of valleys like Longsleddale, and some trails lead to viewpoints such as Thornthwaite Crag Beacon or Grey Crag Summit. These provide panoramic vistas of the unspoiled rolling hills and the wider Cumbrian Lake District landscape.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Barley Bridge Weir – Wheelbase Bike Shop & Café loop from Selside and the River Sprint – Wheelbase Bike Shop & Café loop from Selside, both offering convenient loop options.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 260 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the routes, the stunning natural beauty of the rolling hills and valleys, and the opportunity to experience the Lake District's solitude away from traffic.

Yes, cycling on no-traffic routes through the woodlands and quiet countryside of Selside And Fawcett Forest increases your chances of spotting local wildlife. The peaceful environment is home to various bird species and other animals, especially during quieter times of the day.

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most favorable weather conditions for touring cycling, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, the autumn brings beautiful foliage, and even winter can be rewarding for hardy cyclists, though some unpaved sections might be muddier.

While Selside and Fawcett Forest itself is quite rural, the routes are often designed to pass near or through villages where you can find cafes and pubs. For example, the Barley Bridge Weir – Wheelbase Bike Shop & Café loop from Selside specifically mentions a bike shop and café, providing a convenient stop for refreshments and bike services.

While direct public transport links to the immediate Selside and Fawcett Forest area can be limited, the region's proximity to the wider Lake District means that some larger towns and transport hubs may offer connections. It's advisable to check local bus and train services for their bike carriage policies and routes that connect to the start points of these trails.