The best cycling routes around Orton

Orton offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 120 different tours to explore. These routes cater to various skill levels, ranging from easy rides to more challenging excursions across the fells.

The terrain around Orton is diverse, featuring well-graded climbs and sweeping descents on quiet country lanes, as well as more challenging off-road tracks across fells and moorland. You'll encounter stunning limestone landscapes, open moorland with views towards the Howgill Fells and Pennines, and picturesque river valleys like the Eden and Lyvennet.

Yes, Orton has routes suitable for various skill levels. While many routes are moderate to difficult, there are at least 6 easy touring cycling routes available. These often follow quieter country lanes through the picturesque Eden and Lyvennet Valleys, providing a more relaxed experience for families or those new to touring cycling.

The touring cycling routes around Orton are highly rated by the komoot community, boasting an average score of 4.7 stars from over 70 reviews. More than 1200 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the varied terrain, stunning views, and the mix of quiet lanes and challenging fells.

Orton's routes showcase remarkable natural features. You can cycle through the stunning limestone pavement of Little Asby Common, skirt around Great Asby Scar National Nature Reserve, and enjoy views of Orton Scar and the majestic Howgill Fells. Many routes also pass through Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) like Little Asby Fell and Sunbiggin Tarn, which is a rare limestone tarn.

Yes, cycling around Orton offers glimpses into the region's rich history and culture. You might encounter ancient farmsteads, quarry sites, and even Andy Goldsworthy's landscape sculptures. The ancient Gamelands Stone Circle, one of Cumbria's largest, is located just east of Orton. Additionally, Castle Folds, an old fort used during Scottish raids, lies behind Orton Scar.

Yes, the area around Orton features several beautiful waterfalls. You can find Cautley Spout Waterfall, Rutter Force Waterfall, and Stone Bridge and Waterfall on Randale Beck. These natural attractions can make for interesting detours or scenic stops during your ride.

Many routes offer fantastic viewpoints. You'll get expansive views across the fells towards the Howgill Fells and Pennines. Specific highlights include views from Orton Scar, and if you venture further, you might reach summits like The Calf Summit (Howgill Fells) or Grey Crag Summit, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Orton are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Orton Scar Café – Pendragon Castle ruins loop from Orton and the Sunbiggin Tarn – View of Sunbiggin Tarn loop from Beacon Hill.

The cycling routes often pass through charming villages such as Crosby Ravensworth, Great Asby, and Maulds Meaburn, where you can find opportunities for refreshments at local pubs, cafes, and shops. Orton itself also offers several options for food and drink, including the Orton Scar Café.

The diverse landscapes of Orton can be enjoyed throughout the warmer months. Spring and summer offer vibrant wildflowers and longer daylight hours, while early autumn can provide stunning scenery with changing foliage. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, as the fells can experience changeable weather.

Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Orton offers several difficult routes. The Great Dun Fell Access Road – Great Dun Fell Radar Station loop from Orton is a demanding 63.7 km route with significant elevation gain, providing a rigorous test and rewarding views. Another challenging option is the Heart-Shaped Wood, Lune Valley – Shap Summit loop from Tebay.

Orton is a hub for outdoor activities. The village is a popular staging post for Wainwright's Coast to Coast Walk, so you might encounter hikers. The area's natural beauty also makes it ideal for wildlife spotting, especially in SSSI sites like Orton Moss Nature Reserve. The nationally recognized Orton Farmers Market is another attraction that draws visitors, offering local produce and crafts.