The best road cycling routes around Buttermere

Buttermere offers a diverse range of road cycling terrain. You'll find winding roads alongside tranquil lakes like Buttermere Lake and Crummock Water, as well as challenging ascents over iconic mountain passes. The region is known for its dramatic fells and hushed woodlands, providing a mix of well-paved surfaces and significant elevation changes.

There are nearly 20 road cycling routes available around Buttermere on komoot, catering to various fitness levels. These include options ranging from moderate, requiring good fitness, to difficult, demanding very good fitness.

Yes, while Buttermere is known for its challenging passes, there are routes suitable for those seeking a more relaxed experience. For example, the area offers 5 easy routes, allowing you to enjoy the stunning scenery without extreme exertion. These often involve gentler sections around the lakes.

For experienced riders seeking a true test of endurance, Buttermere offers 3 difficult routes. These often incorporate demanding passes like Honister, Whinlatter, and Newlands. A particularly challenging option is the Crummock Water – Crummock Water Balcony Road loop from Buttermere, which is 43.9 miles long with significant elevation gain.

Road cycling routes in Buttermere are rich with natural beauty. You can expect stunning views of Buttermere Lake and Crummock Water, surrounded by grand peaks like Fleetwith Pike and Red Pike. Keep an eye out for Sourmilk Gill Waterfall cascading down Red Pike, and the tranquil Burtness Wood. The dramatic reflections of fells on the lake offer excellent photography opportunities.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Buttermere are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. A popular example is the Buttermere Village – Crummock Water loop from Buttermere, which offers views of both lakes.

The road cycling routes in Buttermere are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the dramatic fells, tranquil lakes, and the rewarding challenge of mountain passes like Honister and Newlands, all set within a peaceful and picturesque environment.

The best time for road cycling in Buttermere is generally from spring through autumn when the weather is milder and more predictable. Summer offers longer daylight hours, but spring and autumn can provide stunning scenery with fewer crowds. Always check local weather conditions, especially when planning to tackle the higher passes.

Yes, the Buttermere area offers options for refreshments. While specific cafes and pubs vary by route, the village of Buttermere itself has facilities. For example, the View of Loweswater – The Gather Café loop from Brackenthwaite suggests a stop at The Gather Café, indicating that such amenities are available in the wider region.

Parking is available in and around the Buttermere village area, which serves as a common starting point for many routes. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking can fill up quickly. Some routes, like the Lorton Village Shop – Portinscale Suspension Footbridge loop from Brackenthwaite, might start from nearby villages with their own parking options.

While many routes in Buttermere involve significant climbs, there are options that can be more family-friendly, particularly those that stick to the flatter sections around the lakes. Look for routes categorized as 'easy' or 'moderate' with lower elevation gains, which provide a gentler experience for families.

One of the longer routes available is the View of Loweswater – The Gather Café loop from Brackenthwaite, which spans approximately 68.5 miles (110 km). This difficult route includes substantial elevation gain, offering an extensive tour of the wider Buttermere area.