4.9
(6)
53
riders
1
ride
Gravel biking around Oughterside And Allerby offers a diverse landscape characterized by rolling hills, established gravel tracks, and scenic views of the surrounding fells and lakes. The region provides varied terrain suitable for gravel cyclists, from moderate paths to more challenging ascents. Cyclists can expect a mix of open country and routes that traverse near significant natural features like Bassenthwaite Lake and Whinlatter Pass.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
4.7
(3)
29
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
15
riders
65.6km
04:48
1,330m
1,330m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
3
riders
70.7km
04:54
1,300m
1,300m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
riders
13.0km
00:58
240m
240m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Ok, so it’s not an easy ride up as it has narrow and rocky sections. However a committed intermediate level rider should at least enjoy the bits they can ride, and the views across the valley and up to Skiddaw House make it a worthwhile climb, even when pushing the bike. We did it in summer, so imagine it’s trickier in winter.
1
0
There is a bumpy, small rock boulder track for maybe a couple of miles at this location. The bumps make the bike vibrate and slow motion down, your arms get well exercised riding through this area
0
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This section takes some effort and determination. Climbing around the side of Ling Fell on a single track, there are some smallish rock boulders on the surface. If it had been raining this could be difficult to climb around, luckily it had been dry for a couple of weeks when I passed by
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This location is a steep climbing section with loads of switchbacks. As you rise to elevated points the views of Bassenthwaite Lake are brilliant. You can see for miles around in between the trees on the edges of the double tracks
0
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Beware of free descending in the wet - it *appears* a shallow descent but you pick up speed quickly and there are some (otherwise lovely) sharp/blind turns.
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Whinlatter Forest offers breathtaking views of the Lake District. The forest's purpose-built mountain bike trails, designed to take full advantage of the rugged terrain, were voted the second-best trail centre in the UK by readers of Singletrack Magazine in 2009. Managed by the Forestry Commission, Whinlatter Forest begins its trails at the main visitor centre car park. This area also features an information centre, a forest shop, Siskins Café, the Whinlatter WildPlay children’s trail, and various walking trails.
2
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The region of Oughterside And Allerby offers a diverse landscape for gravel biking, characterized by rolling hills and established gravel tracks. You can expect scenic views of the surrounding fells and lakes, with routes traversing near significant natural features like Bassenthwaite Lake and Whinlatter Pass.
Yes, for those looking for a more moderate experience, the Setmurphy Gravel Tracks loop from Slatefell is an excellent choice. This 8.1-mile (13.0 km) route is well-maintained and takes about 1 hour 7 minutes to complete, offering a good introduction to gravel biking in the region.
Experienced gravel bikers will find several challenging routes. The Bassenthwaite Lake – Skiddaw House Hostel loop from Papcastle is a difficult 40.7-mile (65.5 km) trail with substantial climbs, often taking nearly 6 hours. Another demanding option is the Lonscale Crags Trail – Whinlatter Pass loop from The Moor, which covers 43.7 miles (70.4 km) and features significant elevation gain.
Yes, all the featured gravel bike routes in this guide are circular. For example, you can enjoy the Setmurphy Gravel Tracks loop from Slatefell for a moderate ride, or tackle the more challenging Views from Hundith Hill Road – View Towards Buttermere loop from Cockermouth.
The gravel bike trails in Oughterside And Allerby offer expansive views of the Lake District fells and surrounding landscapes. You can find specific viewpoints such as Watch Hill Summit and the View of Solway Coast, providing stunning panoramas during your ride.
Yes, the area is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. Along your rides, you might encounter the Confluence of the Rivers Cocker and Derwent, or explore the Mawbray Banks Nature Reserve. For historical interest, All Saints Church, Cockermouth and Wordsworth House and Garden are also nearby.
The gravel biking routes in Oughterside And Allerby are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.88 stars from over 5 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, well-maintained gravel tracks, and the scenic views of the fells and lakes.
While gravel biking can be enjoyed year-round, spring and autumn typically offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can also be excellent, though it's advisable to start earlier to avoid the warmest part of the day. Winter rides are possible but require appropriate gear for potentially colder and wetter conditions.
While specific cafes directly on the trails are not detailed, the routes often pass near or through towns like Cockermouth and Papcastle, where you can find various options for refreshments. It's always a good idea to check local amenities in these towns before you set out.
Parking availability can vary depending on the specific starting point of each route. Many trails originate near villages or towns like Cockermouth, Papcastle, and Slatefell, where public parking options are generally available. We recommend checking the komoot tour page for your chosen route for detailed parking information.
The duration of gravel bike rides in Oughterside And Allerby varies significantly based on the route's length and difficulty. Shorter, moderate routes like the Setmurphy Gravel Tracks loop can be completed in just over an hour. Longer, more difficult trails, such as the Bassenthwaite Lake – Skiddaw House Hostel loop, can take nearly 6 hours to complete.


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