Wooden pier on the eastern shore of Coniston Water
Wooden pier on the eastern shore of Coniston Water
Highlight • Lake
Cycling
4.9
(51)
Mountain biking
5.0
(2)
Road cycling
3.3
(2)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
August 18, 2022
Cycling
May 14, 2025
Cycling

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Nearby routes
Best routes near Wooden pier on the eastern shore of Coniston Water

4.8
(25)
164
riders
29.3km
01:53
310m
310m
Embark on a moderate touring bicycle route that circles Coniston Water, offering a diverse cycling experience. You will cover 18.2 miles (29.3 km) with an elevation gain of 1028 feet (313 metres), typically taking around 1 hour and 53 minutes to complete. The trail combines dedicated cycle paths, quiet minor roads, and some off-road sections, ensuring varied terrain. As you ride, you will catch glimpses of the lake through the trees, framed by the dramatic fells and Coniston Old Man in the distance. This journey provides a rewarding perspective of the Lake District's natural beauty.
Coniston village serves as an ideal starting point for your adventure, offering convenient parking options. Before or after your ride, you can find food shops, cafes, and pubs in the village for refreshments. While much of the route uses quiet roads and cycle paths, be mindful that certain sections on the A593 can be narrow and have faster-moving traffic. Always exercise caution when sharing the road with vehicles.
This circumnavigation offers more than just scenic views; it also passes significant local landmarks. You will cycle past Brantwood House and Gardens, the former residence of the influential writer and artist John Ruskin. Additionally, the route provides views of Wild Cat Island, a location famously featured in Arthur Ransome's

4.9
(7)
23
riders
69.3km
04:48
1,030m
1,030m
Embark on the Windermere and Coniston water loop from Grange-over-Sands, a truly demanding touring bicycle ride that spans 43.1 miles (69.3 km) with a significant 3375 feet (1029 metres) of elevation gain. This difficult route, which typically takes around 4 hours and 47 minutes to complete, requires very good fitness as you navigate testing and sharp climbs through rolling fells and quiet country lanes. You will experience a varied landscape, from coastal paths overlooking Morecambe Bay to the iconic shores of Coniston Water and Lake Windermere, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Old Man of Coniston mountain.
As you plan your ride, consider Coniston as a key stop along the way. This village is an excellent cycling hub, offering food shops, cafes, and pubs where you can refuel and refresh. You can also pause at places like Brantwood to enjoy a coffee with stunning views over Coniston Water, providing a perfect break from the challenging terrain. Be prepared for a mix of primarily paved surfaces, with some unpaved segments that might require you to dismount and push your bike.
This loop offers more than just a physical challenge; it provides a journey through the rich history of the Lake District. You will pass through timeless villages and by landmarks connected to famous figures such as Beatrix Potter and Donald Campbell. The route's unique blend of coastal scenery, limestone pavements, and the majestic foothills of the Lake District makes it a standout experience, reflected in its high average rating from the Komoot cycling community.

4.3
(3)
18
riders
65.0km
04:40
1,040m
1,040m
Embark on a difficult touring cycling adventure with the Coniston Water and Windermere Lake loop from Ulverston. This route spans 40.4 miles (65.0 km) and challenges you with a significant 3423 feet (1043 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes to complete. You will cycle through varied terrain, experiencing the dramatic landscapes of the Lake District National Park, often with views of the Old Man of Coniston mountain.
This demanding ride is best suited for cyclists who are in good physical condition and have a suitable bike for diverse surfaces. Be prepared for sections that may require you to push your bike due to steep climbs or rugged ground, especially after rain. You can find opportunities to stop for refreshments at cafes and pubs in towns like Coniston and Ambleside along the way.
As you navigate between Coniston Water and Windermere, you will pass through charming villages and encounter notable landmarks. Keep an eye out for Wray Castle, a Gothic Revival building on the shores of Windermere, and the Claife Viewing Station, which offers expansive views over Lake Windermere.
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Elevation 50 m
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