The best traffic-free bike rides around Piel Island

There are over 30 no-traffic touring cycling routes around Piel Island, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and challenging options to explore the scenic Furness Peninsula.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families and beginners. For instance, the Walney Channel Coastal Walk – View of Roa Island loop from Barrow-in-Furness is an easy 22.6 km ride with minimal elevation, offering pleasant coastal views. Another great option is the Roa Island – View of Piel Island and Castle loop from Barrow-in-Furness, which is just over 16.5 km and also considered easy.

The routes vary in length and duration. You can find shorter, easy rides like the Roa Island – Abandoned Boat at Rampside loop from Barrow-in-Furness, which is about 21.7 km and takes around 1 hour 15 minutes. Longer, moderate routes, such as the Gleaston Castle & Ulverston loop from Barrow-in-Furness, can be up to 44 km and take over 2 hours 40 minutes to complete.

The routes on the Furness Peninsula offer varied terrains. Many are on mostly paved surfaces, ideal for touring bikes, while some may include unpaved segments. Coastal paths often provide flat cycling, while inland routes can have more significant elevation gains, such as the Ulverston and Hoad Monument – View of Gleaston Castle Ruins loop from Roose, which features over 300 meters of ascent.

Yes, many of the routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Gleaston Castle & Ulverston loop from Barrow-in-Furness and the Walney Channel Coastal Walk – View of Roa Island loop from Barrow-in-Furness, both offering convenient circular journeys.

The routes often pass by or offer views of significant landmarks. You can see historic sites like Piel Castle, which is a 14th-century ruin managed by English Heritage. Many routes also provide scenic views across Morecambe Bay, towards the Lakeland Fells, and of Walney Island. The area is also a haven for seabirds and other wildlife.

Barrow-in-Furness serves as a central hub for many routes and is accessible by public transport. There is also a dedicated cycleway from Barrow's Town Hall to Roa Island, which is the departure point for the ferry to Piel Island. For more detailed information on local transport, you might check local council websites.

Parking is generally available in Barrow-in-Furness, which is a common starting point for many of these routes. Specific parking information for individual trailheads can often be found on local tourism websites or detailed route descriptions.

While cycling is enjoyable year-round, the spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling around Piel Island. This period provides longer daylight hours and milder temperatures, ideal for enjoying the coastal views and exploring the island.

Yes, many routes pass through or near towns and villages where you can find cafes, pubs, and shops for refreshments. Notably, Piel Island itself is home to The Ship Inn, a historic pub that offers local ales and produce, making it a unique stop if your route includes a ferry trip to the island.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.37 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet coastal paths, the stunning views of Morecambe Bay and the Lakeland Fells, and the unique historical charm of Piel Island and its castle. The variety of routes catering to different abilities is also frequently highlighted.

Absolutely! While extensive cycling *on* Piel Island is limited due to its size, it serves as a captivating destination reachable via cycling routes on the mainland. You can cycle to Roa Island, the departure point for the passenger ferry to Piel Island, and then explore the island on foot to see Piel Castle, enjoy the wildlife, and visit The Ship Inn. You can find more information about the island at visitbarrow.org.uk.