The best gravel rides around Gilcrux

The Gilcrux area offers a diverse landscape ideal for gravel biking, characterized by gently undulating countryside and an extensive network of historic, less-used tracks. You'll encounter a mix of surfaces, from smoother paths to more challenging unpaved segments, with views ranging from rolling hills and valleys to the distant fells of the Lake District and the Solway Coast.

Yes, while many routes offer a challenge, there are options for varying skill levels. For a moderate ride, consider the Setmurphy Gravel Tracks loop from Slatefell. This 8.1-mile (13.0 km) route leads through Setmurphy's gravel tracks and is often completed in about 1 hour 7 minutes, making it a good choice for those looking for a less strenuous ride.

For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, the region offers several demanding routes. The Bassenthwaite Lake – Skiddaw House Hostel loop from Papcastle is a difficult 40.7-mile (65.5 km) path exploring the area around Bassenthwaite Lake and ascending towards Skiddaw House Hostel. Another difficult option is the Lonscale Crags Trail – Whinlatter Pass loop from The Moor, covering over 43 miles (70 km) with significant elevation gain.

Yes, all the featured gravel bike routes in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. This makes planning your ride and return journey straightforward.

The routes often pass through areas with beautiful natural features. You might encounter the tranquil 'The Ghyll' woodland with its stream and seasonal bluebells, or enjoy views towards the dramatic fells of the Lake District. Some routes offer glimpses of the Solway Coast. For specific natural highlights, you can explore areas like Ling Fell Summit or the Confluence of the Rivers Cocker and Derwent.

While some routes involve significant climbs, offering panoramic views, specific summits might require a short hike-a-bike section. Notable viewpoints in the wider area include Watch Hill Summit and Binsey Summit, which provide excellent vistas of the surrounding countryside and the Lake District fells.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Gilcrux, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings blooming wildflowers like bluebells in 'The Ghyll,' while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for potentially warmer weather. Winter riding is possible, but tracks can be muddy or icy, so check local conditions.

Starting points for many routes are often near villages or towns like Cockermouth, Papcastle, or Setmurthy, where public parking may be available. For example, the Views from Hundith Hill Road – View Towards Buttermere loop from Cockermouth starts near Cockermouth, a Georgian gem town with parking options. Always check local parking regulations and availability before your ride.

While Gilcrux itself is a tranquil village, routes often pass near or through larger towns like Cockermouth, which offers various pubs and cafes. Whinlatter Forest, accessible via routes like the Whinlatter Pass – Cyclewise Whinlatter Bike Shop loop from Setmurthy, also has a visitor centre with facilities. It's always a good idea to research specific refreshment stops along your chosen route beforehand.

The gravel biking experience around Gilcrux is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.9 stars from over 5 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the quiet historic tracks, and the stunning views of the Lake District fells and surrounding countryside. Many appreciate the variety of routes available for different skill levels.

Gilcrux's location provides easy access to a wealth of attractions. You can visit the Sale Fell for hiking, explore the Whinlatter Forest Visitor Centre, or enjoy trout fishing at Gilcrux Springs. Nearby Cockermouth, the birthplace of William Wordsworth, offers historical sites like Wordsworth House and Garden. For more information on the village itself, you can visit Visit Cumbria's Gilcrux page.

Whinlatter Forest, renowned for its mountain bike trails, is very suitable for gravel biking and is easily accessible from Gilcrux. It offers a network of off-road cycling opportunities that gravel bikers can enjoy. The Whinlatter Pass – Cyclewise Whinlatter Bike Shop loop from Setmurthy is an example of a route that takes you through this area, providing access to its trails and facilities.