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Shap Rural

Haweswater Dam

Highlight • Structure

Haweswater Dam

Road cycling

5.0

(15)

Cycling

5.0

(1)

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Lake District National Park

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  • Location: Shap Rural, Eden, Cumbria, North West England, England, United Kingdom

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    August 2, 2022

    Road cycling

    Haweswater was a controversial construction as it flooded the pretty Mardale valley in 1929. It was built to provide water to north-west England but flooded two villages and a farming community. In exceptional drought the remains of some of the villages are still visible.

    September 4, 2020

    Road cycling

    84bn litres of water held by that Dam. Damn.
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    Nearby routes

    Best routes near Haweswater Dam

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    104

    riders

    #1.

    Ullswater & Haweswater loop including Kirkstone Pass & Shap summit

    90.1km

    04:24

    1,190m

    1,190m

    This difficult racebike loop covers 56.0 miles (90.1 km) and features a substantial 3902 feet (1189 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 4 hours and 23 minutes to complete. You will experience the varied terrain of the Lake District, cycling past the serene waters of Ullswater before heading towards the more secluded Haweswater reservoir. The route includes a demanding ascent over Kirkstone Pass, known for its challenging gradients and expansive views. As you continue, you will encounter the distinct moorland scenery surrounding Shap Summit. This ride offers a true test of endurance for experienced cyclists, combining significant climbs with picturesque Lakeland vistas.

    To begin this challenging loop, consider starting near Pooley Bridge, where parking is generally available. The route primarily follows paved roads, but be prepared for some unpaved sections that might require you to dismount and push your bike. Kirkstone Pass, a key feature of this ride, presents brutal gradients reaching 20-25%, so ensure you have very good fitness before attempting this section. Plan your start time to allow ample daylight, especially given the route's duration and difficulty.

    This route stands out for its comprehensive tour of two major Lake District bodies of water, Ullswater and Haweswater. It uniquely combines the scenic beauty of England's 'most beautiful lake' with the remote, dramatic landscapes surrounding the Haweswater reservoir. The inclusion of Kirkstone Pass, one of the region's most notorious ascents, and the high moorland around Shap Summit, makes this loop a quintessential Lake District cycling adventure. It offers a deep immersion into the diverse natural character of the national park.

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    Hard
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    This difficult 53.3-mile road cycling loop in the Lake District features the challenging Great Dun Fell climb and scenic Haweswater reservoi

    Hard
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    Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

    Moderate

    Details

    Informations

    Elevation 270 m

    Weather

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    Friday 3 July

    19°C

    14°C

    69 %

    Additional weather tips

    Max wind speed: 29.0 km/h

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    Location: Shap Rural, Eden, Cumbria, North West England, England, United Kingdom

    Other Popular Places to Check Out

    View of Ullswater from Heughscar Hill

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