Thornhill Moss And Meadows National Nature Reserve
Thornhill Moss And Meadows National Nature Reserve
The best traffic-free bike rides in Thornhill Moss And Meadows National Nature Reserve
4.8
(39)
428
riders
4
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in Thornhill Moss And Meadows National Nature Reserve traverse a distinctive landscape characterized by wetlands, wet grasslands, and woodlands. The region features a rare sloping valley mire, surrounded by gentle hills, open spaces, and forests. This environment provides tranquil, undeveloped paths suitable for touring cyclists seeking peaceful exploration. The terrain generally offers varied gradients, with some routes featuring minimal elevation changes and others including more significant climbs.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in Thornhill…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
2
riders
27.7km
01:37
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
50.1km
03:51
870m
870m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
2
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
3
riders
37.5km
02:31
600m
600m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(16)
167
riders
78.7km
05:17
1,210m
1,210m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Thornhill Moss And Meadows National Nature Reserve
Tips from the Community
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Open Wednesday through Sunday, with lunch and dinner service (e.g., Fridays: 12:00–2:00 PM & 5:30–8:00 PM). The Joiners Arms is housed in a historic stone building with low rooflines, thick walls, and an asymmetrical facade typical of Northern English rural architecture. The original structure exudes the atmosphere of an 18th- or early 19th-century inn, with exposed wooden beams, fireplaces, and an informal layout that invites people to socialize.
7
0
St. John's Church in Newton Arlosh, officially known as St. John the Evangelist's Church, is a rare example of a fortified church in Northwest England. It was built in 1303 by the monks of Holmcultram Abbey in response to the unsettled border situation with Scotland. Built of red sandstone and cobblestones, it features a massive west tower with arrow slits and a vaulted ground floor. The tower has a narrow entrance, a stone spiral staircase, and a hearth room, possibly used as a waiting room or priest's quarters. Newton Arlosh was founded after nearby Skinburness was destroyed by the sea; the monks built a new settlement and church there. After the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century, the church fell into disrepair and remained a ruin for over 250 years. In 1844 and again in 1894, the building was repaired and extended, with the chancel being placed perpendicular to the nave. Today it is a working Anglican parish church within the Diocese of Carlisle.
8
0
Binsey is a freestanding hill in the northern Lake District, north of Bassenthwaite Lake. At 447 meters high, it's one of the smaller fells, but the views from the summit are surprisingly impressive. On a clear day, you can see not only the western Lakeland fells, but also the Solway Firth, Dumfries & Galloway, and even the Isle of Man. If you stay on the road, you'll remain at 260 meters.
8
0
Over Water is a secluded lake in the northern part of the Lake District National Park. It lies at an altitude of 188 meters and was artificially enlarged by a dam in 1904 to serve as a drinking water reservoir for Wigton—a function it fulfilled until October 2022. The surrounding area offers beautiful views of the water and the surrounding hills such as Binsey, Great Cockup, and Longlands Fell.
9
0
There’s certainly something off with the size of this sign in relation to the size of the animal it is warning you of. Also never seen cows in this part of the common.
0
0
Cracking section of road
0
0
Fantastic quiet road to ride and admire the views down over Mungrisdale to Troutbeck and the fells beyond.
0
0
An image above shows the lighting system switched on, however for one reason or another, it was off as I passed through on an overcast day. Another rider oncoming without lights (like me) was barely visible in the middle of the tunnel. Mercifully, we'd already spotted one another entering. If you have an urge to read your phone/navigation device on a similarly gloomy day while the tunnel lighting system is switched off, my advice would be to do so before you enter the tunnel. You're going to need 100% attention if there's traffic ahead!
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Thornhill Moss And Meadows National Nature Reserve?
There are 5 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes available in and around Thornhill Moss And Meadows National Nature Reserve. These routes offer a range of distances and difficulties, ensuring options for various skill levels.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Thornhill Moss And Meadows National Nature Reserve?
The best time to go touring cycling in Thornhill Moss And Meadows National Nature Reserve is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months. The weather is milder, and the unique wetland flora, including rare orchids, is at its most vibrant. Winter cycling is possible but can be challenging due to colder, wetter conditions and shorter daylight hours.
Are there any easy, family-friendly touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, there is an easy touring cycling route perfect for families or those seeking a relaxed ride. The Joiners Arms loop from Dundraw is approximately 27.7 km long with minimal elevation gain, offering a pleasant experience through the tranquil Cumbrian landscape.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no-traffic touring cycling routes?
The terrain around Thornhill Moss And Meadows National Nature Reserve is characterized by gentle hills and open spaces, with some routes traversing wet grasslands and reed beds. While the reserve itself is a wetland, the cycling routes often utilize paths and quiet roads that offer a mix of surfaces. Expect relatively flat sections, especially closer to the coast, with some routes incorporating more significant climbs as you venture towards the fells.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, all the no-traffic touring cycling routes listed are circular loops, designed to bring you back to your starting point. For example, the Allonby Beach – View Across the Irish Sea loop from Dundraw offers a moderate 40.8 km circular ride with coastal views.
Can I find routes that are more challenging for experienced touring cyclists?
Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists looking for a challenge, routes like the Dash Falls – Skiddaw House Hostel loop from Blennerhasset and Torpenhow offer significant elevation gains over 50 km, testing your endurance amidst stunning Cumbrian scenery. Another challenging option is the View of the Northern Fells – Binsey Summit loop from Bolton Low Houses.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Thornhill Moss And Meadows National Nature Reserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility and undeveloped character of the region, the sense of isolation, and the opportunity to observe diverse wildlife in a unique wetland environment. The well-maintained, no-traffic routes are frequently highlighted for providing a peaceful cycling experience.
Is Thornhill Moss And Meadows National Nature Reserve part of a larger cycling network?
Yes, Thornhill Moss And Meadows National Nature Reserve is notably included on **Route 71 of the Sustrans National Cycle Network**. This provides access to a broader network of cycling paths, offering further opportunities for exploring the region on two wheels, often utilizing traffic-free or quiet road sections.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots along the touring cycling routes?
While the reserve itself is known for its unique wetland landscapes and diverse flora, many routes in the wider area offer scenic viewpoints. For instance, the Binsey Summit – View of the Northern Fells loop from Blennerhasset and Torpenhow provides panoramic views of the Northern Fells, showcasing the contrasting beauty of Cumbria's gentle hills and more rugged terrain.
Where can I find more information about the Thornhill Moss And Meadows National Nature Reserve itself?
For detailed information about the Thornhill Moss And Meadows National Nature Reserve, including its conservation efforts and unique ecological features, you can visit the official government website: www.gov.uk. This resource provides valuable context about the natural environment you'll be cycling through.
Most popular routes in Thornhill Moss And Meadows National Nature Reserve
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
