The best gravel rides around Natland

There are over 15 gravel bike trails around Natland listed on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find everything from shorter, easier rides to more challenging, longer routes.

The terrain around Natland is quite varied. You can expect open countryside, paths along the River Kent, and old canal towpaths which offer relatively flat, traffic-free sections. Some routes also include climbs to prominent features like Helm Hill or Heversham Head, providing more challenging ascents and panoramic views.

Yes, Natland offers options suitable for families and beginners. The old canal towpath, part of the former Lancaster Canal, and paths along the River Kent provide relatively flat and traffic-free routes, ideal for an easier ride. These paths are great for enjoying the scenery without significant climbs.

Several interesting attractions are accessible from gravel routes. You could cycle to Sizergh Castle and Gardens, a National Trust property with a tea room. Other nearby points of interest include The Mushroom on Scout Scar, offering fine views, and the historic Sedgwick House. The Lancaster Canal Trail: Natland–Sedgwick Section is also a highlight for its historical significance and pleasant riding.

The gravel biking routes in Natland are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 30 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil riverside paths to challenging climbs with rewarding views, and the mix of traffic-free sections and quiet country lanes.

Yes, for those seeking a longer adventure, the Old Coach Road via Glenridding and Grasmere from Kendal — loop in the Lake District National Park is a significant route. This challenging trail spans over 74 miles (119 km) and takes you through the stunning Lake District National Park, typically requiring a full day to complete.

Many of the gravel routes around Natland are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the popular Sizergh Castle loop from Kendal and the Heversham Head loop from Kendal are both circular routes, offering varied scenery and points of interest.

Natland offers enjoyable gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and summer provide pleasant weather for exploring the open countryside and riverside paths. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer crisp, clear rides, though conditions may be colder and some paths potentially muddier. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like Howgill Fells via Lambrigg Fell offer significant elevation gain and longer distances, traversing more rugged terrain. The area also features routes with climbs to prominent hills like Helm, providing demanding ascents and descents.

Yes, several routes pass by or are close to places where you can refuel. For instance, Sizergh Castle has a tea room, and nearby Low Sizergh Barn also offers a farm shop and tea room. The villages and towns accessible from the trails, such as Kendal, also provide numerous cafes and pubs.

Natland is close to Kendal, which is a key transport hub. Kendal has a train station that connects to the wider rail network, making it possible to bring your bike via public transport. From Kendal, you can easily access many of the gravel routes around Natland via country lanes and cycle paths.

While specific parking areas for gravel biking in Natland itself aren't explicitly detailed, Kendal, being a larger town nearby, offers various public parking facilities. Many routes start from or pass through Kendal, making it a convenient base for parking and beginning your ride.