The best cycling routes in Spadeadam Forest

Spadeadam Forest offers a diverse landscape for touring cyclists. You'll encounter extensive coniferous plantations, areas of blanket bog, rush pasture, and moorland. The terrain includes both gentle stretches and more demanding climbs, with elevations ranging from approximately 150m to 520m above sea level. Some routes combine paved roads, moorland, and forest tracks, catering to various fitness levels.

There are over 10 touring cycling routes available in Spadeadam Forest, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars.

While many routes in Spadeadam Forest involve significant elevation and varied terrain, making them more suitable for experienced cyclists, some sections might be manageable for older, more adventurous families. For example, the Bewcastle Church and Cross – View of Bewcastle Castle loop from Askerton is rated moderate and covers 22.5 miles, offering historical sights that might appeal to families looking for a longer ride.

Spadeadam Forest is a natural area with diverse wildlife, including goshawks and red squirrels. While public access is generally permitted on designated routes, it's crucial to keep dogs under strict control, preferably on a lead, to protect wildlife and livestock. Be aware that some areas are part of an active RAF training base, and public access rules must be strictly followed for safety.

Many routes in and around Spadeadam Forest offer glimpses of historical sites and natural beauty. You can cycle past remnants of Hadrian's Wall, visit Lanercost Priory, or see Bewcastle Castle. The landscape itself is a feature, with extensive coniferous plantations, blanket bog, and high rolling moorland providing wide horizons and views towards the Lake District. The Lanercost Priory – Hadrian's Wall loop from Gilsland is a great option for exploring historical landmarks.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Spadeadam Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the challenging Hethersgill and Harelaw loop from Bewcastle and the moderate Bewcastle Church and Cross – View of Bewcastle Castle loop from Askerton.

The best time for touring cycling in Spadeadam Forest is generally during the warmer, drier months from spring to autumn. This avoids the potentially harsh winter conditions on the exposed moorland and ensures more pleasant riding. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly.

Specific parking information varies by route start point. Many routes begin from villages like Bewcastle or Gilsland, where public parking may be available. Always check local signage and be mindful of residents when parking. Due to the area's nature as an active RAF training base, public access points and parking may be limited in certain zones.

Public transport options directly into the heart of Spadeadam Forest are limited. It is advisable to check local bus services to nearby villages such as Gilsland or Bewcastle, and plan your cycling route from there. For detailed information on bus routes in Cumbria, you may consult the Cumbria County Council website.

While Spadeadam Forest itself is remote, you can find cafes and pubs in the surrounding villages such as Gilsland, Bewcastle, or Askerton. These can be good starting or ending points for your rides, offering opportunities for refreshments. Plan your route to include these villages if you wish to stop for food or drink.

Spadeadam Forest is home to RAF Spadeadam, an active electronic warfare training base. Public access to certain areas, particularly the Closed Impact Area for live firing and other danger zones, is strictly prohibited for safety reasons. Always heed warning signs, such as red flags indicating closures, and avoid straying from public roads or designated paths in restricted zones. For official information, you can refer to public documents like the Spadeadam Review.

The touring cycling routes in Spadeadam Forest range from moderate to difficult. You'll find routes with significant elevation gains, such as the Hadrian's Wall – Birdoswald Roman Fort loop from Gilsland, which has over 630m of elevation gain over 54.4 km. These routes often involve varied terrain, requiring good to very good fitness.