The best cycling routes in the Pennines Mountains

The Pennines Mountains offer a vast network for touring cyclists, with over 1700 routes available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including over 180 easy, 750 moderate, and 830 difficult options.

The Pennines are known for their diverse terrain, ranging from extensive upland moorland and dramatic fells to fertile river valleys and dales. You'll encounter gritstone edges and limestone gorges, with routes varying from quiet roads and railway paths to canal towpaths and forestry roads. Some routes, like sections of the Pennine Cycleway, may include unpaved sections, making bikes like hybrids, cyclocross, or mountain bikes suitable.

Yes, the Pennines offer numerous challenging climbs. For instance, the Buttertubs Pass & Oxnop Scar loop from Hawes in the Yorkshire Dales National Park features significant elevation gain. Other notable climbs in the region include Great Dun Fell and Yad Moss, known for their gradients and rewarding views.

While many routes in the Pennines can be challenging, there are options suitable for families. Look for routes that utilize railway paths or canal towpaths, which often provide flatter, traffic-free experiences. The Trans Pennine Trail, for example, offers mostly flat sections ideal for a more relaxed touring experience.

The Pennines are rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can cycle past impressive peaks like Old Man of Coniston summit or Catbells Summit. The region is also home to spectacular waterfalls such as High Force in Teesdale and Cauldron Snout. The landscape also bears the imprints of a rich lead-mining past, with historical remnants visible across the region.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the circumnavigation of Coniston Water from Coniston village, a moderate 29.3 km route. Another is the Windermere, Elterwater & Grasmere loop, covering 38.2 km.

The Pennines Mountains are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1500 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from high moorland to river valleys, and the challenging yet rewarding climbs. The extensive network of routes, including national cycleways, also contributes to a highly enjoyable experience.

Absolutely. The Pennines are home to significant long-distance routes. The Pennine Cycleway, a 350-mile route, offers wild scenery and vast views, traversing four National Parks. The Pennine Bridleway is another 205-mile largely off-road National Trail. Additionally, the C2C (Coast to Coast) and Walney to Wear (and Whitby) National Cycle Routes pass through the North Pennines, providing multi-day touring opportunities.

Charming stone-built villages throughout the Pennines offer traditional pubs and local shops, providing welcoming stops. For example, the Tan Hill Inn & Gunnerside loop from Grinton passes by the famous Tan Hill Inn – Britain's Highest Inn. Many villages also offer accommodation options for cyclists on multi-day tours.

The Pennines offer cycling opportunities throughout the year, but the best time generally depends on your preference for weather and terrain. Spring and summer provide milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring the open moorlands and dales. Autumn brings beautiful foliage. Be prepared for changeable weather conditions, especially at higher elevations, regardless of the season.

While specific komoot routes listed here may not directly pass every major waterfall, the Pennines region is renowned for its impressive waterfalls like High Force and Cauldron Snout. Many local routes and trails in areas like Teesdale will bring you close to these natural wonders, offering opportunities to combine cycling with short walks to view them.

Absolutely. The Pennines are a haven for diverse outdoor pursuits. Beyond cycling, you can enjoy walking and hiking on numerous trails, including a significant portion of the Pennine Way. The region's rivers and lakes also offer opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and wild swimming. Some areas, like the North Pennines, boast dark skies, making them excellent for stargazing after a day of cycling.