The best road cycling routes in the Pennines Mountains

The Pennines Mountains offer a vast network of road cycling routes, with over 1,400 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including over 280 easy, 820 moderate, and 370 difficult trails.

Road cycling in the Pennines Mountains is characterized by diverse terrain, from extensive high moorland to attractive river valleys and quiet country roads. You can expect challenging ascents and varied landscapes. The region includes areas like the gritstone fells of the Forest of Bowland and the valleys of the Yorkshire Dales, offering a mix of demanding climbs and scenic, undulating paths.

Yes, the Pennines are renowned for their challenging climbs. The North Pennines, for instance, features Great Dun Fell, the highest paved road in the UK, with an average gradient of nine percent and pitches up to 20 percent. Other demanding routes include sections of the Fred Whitton Challenge eastern loop from Grasmere and the Coniston and Hardknott Pass loop from Windermere.

Absolutely. While the Pennines are known for challenging climbs, there are many moderate routes and quiet country roads, especially in areas like the North Pennines, that are suitable for less experienced riders. For example, the Ingleborough loop to Ribblehead Viaduct & Pen-y-ghent offers a moderate experience through iconic landscapes.

The Pennines offer stunning natural beauty and historical landmarks. You can encounter expansive moorlands, river valleys, and significant geological features. Notable attractions include Rydal Cave, and picturesque stone-built villages like Blanchland and Allendale. The region's lead-mining past is also visible, with sites like the Killhope Lead Mining Museum.

Yes, many road cycling routes in the Pennines are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Wensleydale & Swaledale loop from Bainbridge in the Yorkshire Dales, and the Honister Pass and Buttermere loop from Keswick.

The Pennines Mountains are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 800 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's expansive moorlands, attractive river valleys, and the challenging yet rewarding ascents. The diverse landscapes and the abundance of quiet country roads are also often highlighted as key attractions.

Yes, the Pennines are home to several impressive waterfalls. In the North Pennines, you can find High Force on the River Tees, one of England's most spectacular waterfalls. While not directly on a road cycling route, many routes pass through areas where these natural monuments are accessible for a short detour.

The Pennines are part of several significant long-distance cycleways. The Pennine Cycleway itself is a 350-mile route combining quiet roads, railway paths, and canal towpaths, suitable for a week-long adventure. Other national routes like the C2C (Coast to Coast) and sections of the Trans-Pennine Trail also traverse the region, offering varied terrain for multi-day cycling.

The best time for road cycling in the Pennines is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is typically milder, and the days are longer, making for more pleasant riding conditions. However, weather in the Pennines can be unpredictable, so it's always advisable to check forecasts before heading out.

Many road cycling routes in the Pennines pass through or near charming stone-built villages such as Blanchland and Allendale. These villages often feature local pubs and cafes, providing excellent opportunities for refreshment stops. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify such points of interest along your chosen path.

Public transport options vary across the vast Pennines region. Some larger towns and villages within the Pennines are accessible by train or bus, which can help you reach starting points for routes. It's recommended to check local public transport schedules and bike carriage policies for specific areas you plan to visit.