The best gravel rides around Whinfell Forest

There are over 6 gravel bike routes documented on komoot around Whinfell Forest, offering a variety of experiences from moderate to challenging.

Yes, for those new to gravel biking or seeking a more relaxed ride, routes like the Low Gardens Bridge – Lowther Castle loop from Penrith offer a moderate challenge with a mix of riverside sections and tracks towards the historic Lowther Castle estate. It's a 16.2 km path with manageable elevation.

For experienced riders looking for a significant challenge, the Greg's Hut – Great Dun Fell Access Road loop from Skirwith is a demanding 49.7 km route with over 1100 meters of elevation gain. Another difficult option is the View of Ullswater – View of Ullswater loop from Askham, which spans 28.5 km with over 500 meters of climbing, offering rewarding views.

Many of the gravel routes in the Whinfell Forest area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the popular Lowther Castle – Askham Fell loop from Clifton is a 17.4 km circular trail exploring castle grounds and open fells.

The routes often provide scenic vistas of the surrounding landscape. You can expect views towards significant landmarks like Ullswater and Lowther Castle, as well as expansive open fells and dense woodlands. The Lowther Castle – View of Ullswater loop from Penrith (North Lakes) is particularly known for its varied terrain and scenic points overlooking Ullswater.

While some routes are more challenging, the area does offer options that can be enjoyed by families, particularly those with some cycling experience. The moderate routes, often on forest tracks or less technical paths, are generally more suitable. Always check the route's difficulty and length to ensure it matches your family's ability.

Parking availability varies by starting point. For routes originating near villages like Clifton, Penrith, or Askham, you can often find public car parks or designated roadside parking. It's advisable to check specific starting points on komoot for detailed parking information or local council websites for current regulations.

Penrith, a nearby town, serves as a key transport hub with a train station and bus services. From Penrith, local buses can connect you to villages closer to the forest, such as Clifton or Askham, which are common starting points for many gravel routes. Planning your journey in advance with local bus timetables is recommended.

While the routes themselves traverse natural landscapes, you'll find opportunities for refreshments in nearby villages and towns. Lowther Castle often has facilities, and villages like Askham and Clifton, or the larger town of Penrith, offer cafes, pubs, and shops where you can refuel before or after your ride.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery as the foliage changes. Summer can also be excellent, though trails might be busier. Winter riding is possible but requires appropriate gear for colder, potentially wetter conditions, and some trails might be muddier.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience around Whinfell Forest, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders frequently praise the diverse landscape, which combines dense woodlands with open fells, and the rewarding views towards landmarks like Ullswater and Lowther Castle. The variety of terrain catering to different skill levels is also a common highlight.