The best MTB trails around Cartmel Fell

There are over 200 mountain bike trails around Cartmel Fell, offering a wide variety of routes for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored more than 217 tours in the area.

Cartmel Fell offers diverse terrain, including open fells, woodlands, and natural tarns. You'll encounter a mix of off-road sections, quiet country lanes, and technical singletrack through bracken and forest plantations. Some routes also feature 'gravel' sections, providing varied surfaces.

Yes, Cartmel Fell has trails suitable for beginners and families. There are 45 easy routes available. For example, the Simpson Ground to High Newton Reservoir loop is an easy 8.3-mile trail that offers gentle riding with views towards the Coniston Fells.

For those seeking a challenge, Cartmel Fell offers 33 difficult mountain bike routes. These trails often feature more technical singletrack, steeper climbs, and descents through varied terrain, requiring good fitness and advanced skills.

The area is rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy superb views of Windermere and across the fells of southern and central Lakeland from points like Gummer's How and School Knott. Routes also pass natural tarns such as Sow How Tarn and Middle Tarn, and traverse open fells and woodlands like Bigland Allotments.

Many of the mountain bike routes in Cartmel Fell are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Simpson Ground Reservoir – Sow How Tarn loop from Cartmel Fell, a moderate 11.4-mile path that traverses open fells and passes natural tarns.

The mountain biking experience in Cartmel Fell is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 500 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, scenic views of Windermere and the fells, and the mix of off-road sections and quiet country lanes.

Cartmel Fell is enjoyable for mountain biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes. While some trails may be affected by wet conditions in winter, many routes remain accessible, providing a different kind of challenge and often quieter paths.

Yes, the wider Cartmel area is known for its vibrant village and culinary offerings. You'll find various pubs and cafes in nearby villages where you can refuel after your ride. Staveley-in-Cartmel is a common starting point for routes and offers local amenities.

While many trails are easily accessible by car, public transport options to Cartmel Fell can be limited. It's advisable to check local bus services to nearby villages like Staveley-in-Cartmel or consider starting points that are more directly served by public transport if you plan to rely on it.

Generally, you do not need a specific permit for mountain biking on public bridleways and byways in Cartmel Fell, as it is part of the Lake District National Park. However, always respect private land and adhere to local signage. For more information on the area, you can visit Visit Lake District.

Absolutely! Many routes in Cartmel Fell provide stunning views of Lake Windermere. For instance, the View of Lake Windermere – Rydal Water loop from Far Sawrey is a popular 20.5-mile trail that leads through varied terrain with excellent panoramas of the lake.