Cycling is an enjoyable way of exploring the valley. The forest roads which lead you round the valley offer fantastic views of the mountains, lake, forest and River Liza.

Check out our pocket guides. We currently offer a general Visitor Guide and an Archeology Guide.

Please note that Bowness Knott is the only suitable access point to the valley for cyclists whether arriving by bike or by car. However the first 200m from Bowness Knott down to the lakeshore is quite steep, young children need to be careful and may need to walk on the way down and back up the hill.

Families

For families with young children the route from Bowness Knott to the top of the lake and back is ideal. Beyond the Irish bridge the road rises more steeply and the surface becomes poorer, more loose gravel. Older more experienced children may be able to manage as far as the YHA at Gillerthwaite. The Irish Bridge makes a great destination as a place to have a picnic, play pooh sticks and enjoy the views up the valley. Please note the valley is not vehicle free and you can expect to meet occasional vehicles especially along the lakeshore forest road between Bowness Knott and Gillerthwaite.

For the more adventurous

The extended forest road network provides cyclists with a long distance loop around the valley bottom. As you cycle east of the lake the forest road surface becomes rougher, the gravel more loose and the gradients increase. Beware on bends that you can loose control on the gravel surface.

The majority of the roads that lead up from the valley floor are dead ends, they climb steeply and the descents can be dangerously fast and uncontrolled especially where there are often bends and a steep drop.

Bridleways

There are a number of bridleways that cross the valley from north to south linking to other valleys. Whilst it is legally acceptable to ride these on a bicycle users should be sure of their abilities and equipment before doing so as they all climb and descend through very demanding terrain.

Elsewhere In Cumbria

If you are looking for other cycling routes check out CyclingCumbria , Grizedale North Face Trail, Whinlatter Altura Trail