Ullswater & Haweswater loop including Kirkstone Pass & Shap summit

No, the Ullswater & Haweswater loop is considered a difficult road cycling route, demanding a high level of fitness and experience. It features significant climbs like Kirkstone Pass, which has sections with gradients up to 20-25%, and a long ascent to Shap Summit. It's best suited for advanced road cyclists.

While the route can be started from various points, a common and convenient starting point is near Pooley Bridge at the northern end of Ullswater. There is parking available in the village, allowing for easy access to the loop. Alternatively, parking near Kirkstone Pass is also an option, though it can be busy.

This loop offers stunning Lake District scenery. Key highlights include the picturesque Pooley Bridge, the beautiful shores of Ullswater at Glencoyne Bay, and the challenging yet rewarding climb over Kirkstone Pass with its breathtaking vistas. You'll also pass the remote Haweswater Dam and reach Shap Summit, offering views towards the North Pennines.

The best time to cycle this loop is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is generally milder, and daylight hours are longer. Be aware that Kirkstone Pass can experience challenging conditions, including snow and ice, outside of these periods, making winter cycling particularly hazardous.

The route is primarily on well-paved roads, making it suitable for racebikes. However, be prepared for significant elevation changes, especially on Kirkstone Pass, which features very steep gradients. Some minor segments might be unpaved or rough, potentially requiring careful handling or even walking your bike for short stretches.

Yes, there are several options for refreshments. You'll find amenities in villages like Pooley Bridge. At the summit of Kirkstone Pass, there's a pub offering a welcome rest stop. Additionally, More! The Artisan Bakery is a highlight along the route for a snack or coffee.

No, you do not need a special permit or to pay an entrance fee to cycle this route within the Lake District National Park. The park is freely accessible to the public. However, always adhere to the Countryside Code and respect local regulations, especially regarding private land and road safety.

As a challenging road cycling route, this loop is not typically considered 'dog-friendly' in the sense of dogs walking alongside cyclists. If you wish to bring a dog, it would need to be safely secured in a bike trailer. Always ensure your dog's safety and comfort, especially given the route's length and difficulty.

Yes, this cycling route briefly intersects with several other trails. Notable sections include parts of the Ullswater Way, the Dales Way, and the Coast to Coast Walk (St Bees to Shap). While these are primarily walking routes, you may encounter sections where they briefly coincide with the road.

Kirkstone Pass is notorious for its steep gradients, particularly 'The Struggle' from Ambleside, with sections reaching 20-25%. Even from Troutbeck, it's a significant climb. Shap Summit, while long, is considered relatively easier with a more gradual average gradient of 2.4%. Both passes can be exposed to strong winds and rapidly changing weather, so be prepared for all conditions.

Given the route's difficulty and length (over 90 km), you should bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks. Essential cycling gear includes a well-maintained road bike, helmet, appropriate cycling attire (layers are recommended due to changing weather), puncture repair kit, spare inner tubes, a pump, and basic tools. A GPS device with the route loaded is also highly advisable.