The best cycling routes around Ullswater

Ullswater offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 200 options available. These range from easy lakeside paths to more challenging climbs into the fells.

The routes around Ullswater cater to various skill levels. You'll find approximately 23 easy routes, 100 moderate routes, and 86 difficult routes, ensuring options for every touring cyclist.

Yes, Ullswater has options suitable for families. While specific routes are not listed as 'family-friendly' in the data, the region offers easy lakeside paths that are generally more suitable for a relaxed family outing. Look for routes with lower elevation gain and shorter distances.

Many touring cycling routes in Ullswater are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Lowther Castle – Askham Fell loop from Pooley Bridge and the Verey Books Café & Bookshop – St Peter's Church, Martindale loop from Pooley Bridge.

Touring cycling around Ullswater offers diverse scenery, from tranquil lake shore paths and quiet valley roads to ascents into the surrounding fells that provide panoramic views. You'll encounter open fells, wooded sections, and historic landmarks.

Along your rides, you can explore various points of interest. Consider visiting Howtown Pier – Ullswater Steamers, the serene Hallinhag Wood, or enjoying the vistas from Silver Point Viewpoint (Ullswater). The Ullswater Lakeside Trail (Sandwick to Patterdale) also offers scenic views.

The best time for touring cycling in Ullswater is generally from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. Summer offers the warmest temperatures, but spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery with fewer crowds and comfortable cycling conditions.

Yes, Ullswater is well-served by public transport, particularly the Ullswater 'Steamers' which operate across the lake and can transport bikes (check their specific policies). This allows for linear routes where you can cycle one way and return by boat, or access different starting points around the lake.

The touring cycling routes in Ullswater are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 170 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from gentle lakeside paths to challenging fell climbs, and the stunning views of the lake and surrounding fells.

For those seeking a longer and more challenging ride, the Ullswater Lakeshore Road – Verey Books Café & Bookshop loop from Watermillock is a difficult 51.7 km (32.1 miles) route with significant elevation gain, offering a full day's adventure.

Many routes, particularly those starting or passing through villages like Pooley Bridge or Patterdale, will have cafes and pubs. The route Verey Books Café & Bookshop – View of Shap Countryside loop from Pooley Bridge, for example, starts near a cafe, and you'll find other establishments in the main settlements around the lake.