The best cycling routes around Hawkshead

There are over 35 touring cycling routes around Hawkshead, offering a wide variety of experiences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 19 reviews.

The terrain around Hawkshead is diverse, featuring expansive woodlands, iconic lakes, and rolling hills within the Lake District National Park. You'll find a mix of bridleways, quiet lanes, and accessible forest tracks. Routes can range from mostly paved surfaces to more technical, unpaved segments, catering to different skill levels.

Yes, Hawkshead offers several easy and family-friendly options. For instance, a traffic-free cycle path runs from Clappersgate (near Ambleside) to Hawkshead village. Many routes within Grizedale Forest are also suitable for families. Overall, there are 6 easy touring cycling routes available.

For more challenging rides, Hawkshead has 11 difficult touring cycling routes. A notable option is the Coniston Cycleways – Coniston Water loop from Hawkshead, a 25.5-mile (41.0 km) path with significant elevation gain and extensive views around Coniston Water. The 'Hawkshead Hilltops' route also features steep climbs and superb descents.

Cycling routes around Hawkshead offer breathtaking views of major bodies of water like Lake Windermere, Coniston Water, and Esthwaite Water. You can also explore expansive woodlands, particularly in Grizedale Forest. Notable viewpoints and natural features in the wider area include Old Man of Coniston summit, Loughrigg Fell summit, and Rydal Cave.

Many of the touring cycling routes around Hawkshead are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the Grizedale Viewpoint – Moor Top Car Park loop from Hawkshead, which offers panoramic views within Grizedale Forest.

Bike hire, including e-bikes, is readily available in Hawkshead village and at the Grizedale Forest Visitor Centre, making it convenient to access equipment for your ride.

You can combine your rides with visits to several historical and cultural sites. These include Hill Top House (Beatrix Potter's former home), Wray Castle on the shores of Windermere, and the historic Hawkshead Grammar School. The village of Hawkshead itself also offers charming cafes, pubs, and shops.

Yes, several routes provide stunning views of Lake Windermere. A popular option is the View of Lake Windermere – Windermere Ferry loop from Hawkshead, a 15.3-mile (24.6 km) trail that takes you through the Lake Windermere area.

Parking is available in Hawkshead village and at the Grizedale Forest Visitor Centre, providing convenient access points for many of the touring cycling trails in the area.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil forest paths to challenging climbs, and the breathtaking views of the lakes and fells. The variety of routes catering to all abilities is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, you can find routes that provide glimpses of Morecambe Bay. The View of Morecambe Bay – Grizedale Viewpoint loop from Hawkshead is a moderate 6.9-mile (11.1 km) route that offers such vistas.