4.6
(145)
4,013
riders
211
rides
Touring cycling around Setmurthy offers routes through mature mixed woodlands and along forest roads. The area provides panoramic views across the north-western and western fells, with Watch Hill serving as a notable viewpoint. Setmurthy's landscape features a mix of conifer and broadleaf species, enhancing biodiversity and visual appeal. The region's network of paths and proximity to the Lake District National Park make it suitable for various cycling experiences.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
5.0
(5)
56
riders
26.6km
01:34
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
48
riders
18.7km
01:10
180m
180m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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23
riders
39.2km
02:36
390m
390m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
9
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Wordsworth House rises majestically on Main Street in Cockermouth, a charming town on the edge of the Lake District. Built around 1745, the house reflects the understated grandeur of Georgian architecture: a perfectly symmetrical façade of sand-colored bricks, tall rectangular windows with classically framed woodwork, and an ornate yet understated doorway that evokes the sense of order and proportion characteristic of this period. The poet William Wordsmouth was born here in 1770.
9
0
Hewthwaite Hall is a characterful 16th-century farmhouse in Setmurthy, Cumbria, notable for its robust architecture and rich historical details. The whitewashed stone façade with its raised greenslate roof and gabled gables reflects the architectural style of the late Tudor period, enhanced by ornate flush quoins and sculpted elements such as the royal coat of arms above the entrance. This regional heritage building is harmoniously nestled within a rural setting overlooking the Caldbeck Fells.
8
0
The scenery surrounding this location is stunning. It feels like you're driving a few miles and seeing the same mountains, just from slightly different angles. Even the bad weather couldn't dampen my spirits.
8
0
Isel Bridge, located near Setmurthy in the northern Lake District, is an elegant Grade II-listed bridge that spans the River Derwent. Built in 1812 to replace an older bridge dating from 1691, it consists of three segmental arches and two piers of calciferous and pink sandstone, with a solid parapet and saddleback covering. The bridge is situated in a conservation area and is a popular passage for walkers and cyclists, including as part of the Allerdale Ramble and routes to Watch Hill and Setmurthy Common. Its location offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys, and it's a peaceful place to stop when touring the western Lake District.
8
0
The pre-Victorian centre of old Cockermouth, Market Place is the heart of the old town.
0
0
The scenery around this location is brilliant. You seem to ride for a few miles and see the same mountains but from slightly different angles
1
0
This is the place that gave the town its name, where the River Cocker joins the much larger River Derwent. With a small but well stocked garden in the summer and several seats, this is a contemplative spot.
0
0
Setmurthy offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 200 options to explore. These routes cater to different skill levels, including 26 easy, 115 moderate, and 73 difficult trails.
Touring cycling in Setmurthy primarily features routes through mature mixed woodlands and along well-maintained forest roads. You'll also find some permissive paths and connections to bridleways, offering a mix of paved and gravel surfaces. The area is known for its diverse landscapes and panoramic views across the north-western and western fells.
Yes, Setmurthy has several easy touring cycling routes. One example is the Wordsworth House loop from Embleton, which is an 11.8 km path with moderate elevation, making it suitable for those looking for a less challenging ride.
Setmurthy offers numerous scenic viewpoints. Watch Hill is particularly noted for its panoramic vistas across the fells. Many routes, such as The Lakes Distillery – Bassenthwaite Lake loop from Setmurthy, provide beautiful views of Bassenthwaite Lake. You can also find stunning perspectives from highlights like View of Bassenthwaite Lake and Skiddaw from Sale Fell and View of Bassenthwaite Lake from Wythop Woods.
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Setmurthy are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Popular circular options include The Lakes Distillery – Bassenthwaite Lake loop from Setmurthy and the longer Bobbin Mill Tunnel – Brundholme Bridge loop from Setmurthy.
The Setmurthy area is rich in natural beauty and nearby attractions. Along your rides, you might encounter stunning lakes like Bassenthwaite Lake and Over Water. For those interested in more challenging climbs or panoramic views, prominent fells such as Skiddaw Summit and Grisedale Pike are also nearby.
The touring cycling routes in Setmurthy are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 140 reviews. Cyclists often praise the area's mature mixed woodlands, the variety of forest roads, and the expansive views across the fells, noting the peaceful atmosphere and diverse terrain.
While Setmurthy itself is more rural, its proximity to the market town of Cockermouth means you can easily access amenities. Routes like The Lakes Distillery – Cockermouth Market Place loop from Setmurthy connect rural landscapes with the town, offering opportunities for refreshments and supplies.
Yes, for a unique experience, consider the Bobbin Mill Tunnel – Brundholme Bridge loop from Setmurthy. This route leads through varied terrain and includes the notable Bobbin Mill Tunnel, adding an interesting element to your ride.
Setmurthy's diverse landscapes, with mixed woodlands and fells, are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Always check local weather conditions, especially for higher elevations, as the region can experience varied weather.
Yes, Setmurthy has routes with significant elevation gains that will challenge experienced touring cyclists. For example, the Bobbin Mill Tunnel – Brundholme Bridge loop from Setmurthy features an elevation gain of approximately 390 meters over its 39.2 km distance, providing a rewarding workout.
Absolutely. Setmurthy is located on the edge of the Lake District National Park, making it an excellent base for combining touring cycling with broader exploration of the park. The area's network of paths and forest roads provides direct access to the natural beauty and varied terrain characteristic of the Lake District.


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