4.7
(59)
3,919
riders
3
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around Brothers Water are set within the scenic Hartsop valley in the eastern Lake District, characterized by undulating country roads, fells, and lakes. The area features dramatic scenery with vast open slopes like Hartsop Dodd and High Hartsop Dodd. A prominent feature for cyclists is the A592 Kirkstone Pass, known for its significant elevation challenges and relatively good tarmac. The region offers a mix of terrain, from valley roads to mountain passes, providing varied experiences…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
5.0
(1)
66
riders
10.5km
00:47
410m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
69
riders
11.1km
00:48
410m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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5.0
(1)
36
riders
55.1km
03:15
1,300m
1,300m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
16
riders
86.7km
04:48
1,790m
1,790m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
10
riders
12.0km
00:40
260m
260m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Stunning area to cycle in, can get very busy in high season though
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It’s a hard ride up if you’re not used to it, but it’s worth it to THUNDER down the other side 👍🤣
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All I can say is, it's spectacular and challenging by car, bike, or motorcycle! Just be careful, the road is narrow, and unfortunately, there are always some crazy people who think they're the only ones on the road! Don't stress, bring plenty of water, and enjoy the outdoors! But it's not called "STRUGGLE" for nothing!
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Plenty of places to grab some food and buy some hiking gear or shoes for your doggo
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0
Very pleasant inn with spacious terrace. Opening hours: every day from 11:00 to 23:00.
12
0
Remember your table number, order at the bar, and enjoy delicious food and drinks. I recommend the Ghyll beer.
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0
There are 4 carefully curated no traffic road cycling routes around Brothers Water, designed to offer a peaceful and scenic experience. These routes cater to various skill levels, ensuring there's something for everyone.
The routes around Brothers Water offer a mix of challenges. You'll find 2 easy routes perfect for a relaxed ride, 1 moderate route for those looking for a bit more, and 1 difficult route for experienced cyclists seeking a significant challenge.
The no traffic road cycling routes around Brothers Water are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.7 stars from 55 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the stunning Lakeland scenery, the quiet roads, and the rewarding climbs and descents.
Yes, there are easy routes that are great for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride away from traffic. For instance, the Grasmere Lake – Rydal Water loop from Grasmere offers a pleasant ride with manageable elevation, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful surroundings without significant challenges.
Absolutely. The region is known for its challenging terrain, including the iconic Kirkstone Pass. For a demanding ride with substantial elevation, consider the Langdale Valley – Little Langdale Tarn Road loop from Ambleside, which features over 1300 meters of ascent over 55 km, offering a truly rewarding experience on quiet roads.
Many of the routes in this guide are designed as loops to maximize your scenic experience while minimizing traffic exposure. For example, the Bridge House, Ambleside – Kirkstone Pass loop from Red Screes provides a circular journey that incorporates the dramatic Kirkstone Pass, offering stunning views and a sense of remoteness.
Public car parks are available in nearby villages such as Patterdale and Glenridding, which serve as convenient starting points for many cycling routes in the Brothers Water area. These locations provide good access to the quiet country roads.
Spring and autumn are often considered ideal for road cycling around Brothers Water. The weather is generally milder, and the natural scenery, with spring blossoms or autumn colors, is particularly stunning. During these seasons, you can often find quieter roads compared to the peak summer months, enhancing the 'no traffic' experience.
While the immediate area around Brothers Water features some challenging terrain, you can find family-friendly options by choosing easier routes and considering the overall distance and elevation. The Grasmere Lake – Rydal Water loop from Grasmere is an easy route that could be suitable for families looking for a less strenuous ride on quieter roads.
You can expect varied terrain, from undulating country roads to significant climbs and descents through fells and alongside lakes. While the Kirkstone Pass is known for its steep gradients (up to 24%), many quieter roads offer a mix of rolling hills and flatter sections, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Lake District.
Yes, the area is rich in natural beauty and historical charm. While cycling, you might pass through the picturesque village of Hartsop with its 17th-century stone farm buildings, or catch glimpses of Hartsop Hall, a 16th-century Grade I listed building. The routes also offer views of the glittering Brothers Water itself and the vast open slopes of surrounding fells like Hartsop Dodd.
Absolutely. Brothers Water is an excellent base for various outdoor pursuits. After your ride, you could enjoy a gentle walk around the lake, which features a small pebbled beach perfect for picnics. Wild swimming is also popular in Brothers Water, offering a refreshing dip. Nearby Ullswater, just a short drive away, provides opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding.


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