The Best Lake District Mountain Biking Trails

This guide highlights the best mountain biking trails in the Lake District, catering to all skill levels. You’ll find routes for beginners and experts alike, with tips on must-see sights and where to relax post-ride. Whether you’re local or visiting, this guide will help you make the most of your time on the trails.

The Lake District is a mountain biker’s paradise, with diverse terrain ranging from technical rocky descents to flowing forest trails. Its breathtaking landscapes provide a physical challenge and a deep connection with nature. Whether you’re after adventure or just a great day out, the Lake District has it all.

Beginner Trails

1. Grizedale Forest – The North Face Trail

Grizedale Forest is a fantastic starting point for beginner mountain bikers, offering a variety of trails that are both accessible and scenic. The North Face Trail, in particular, is an excellent choice for those new to the sport. This purpose-built trail stretches for approximately 10 miles (16 km) and is designed to introduce riders to the basics of mountain biking while still providing a thrilling experience.

• Trail Features: The North Face Trail includes a mix of flowing singletrack, gentle climbs, and smooth descents. The trail is well-maintained with a compacted gravel surface, making it perfect for those still mastering their bike handling skills.
• Scenic Highlights: As you wind through the forest, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Coniston Water and the surrounding fells. The trail also passes through dense woodland, offering a peaceful escape and the chance to spot local wildlife, such as red deer and a variety of bird species.
• Difficulty Level: While this trail is designed for beginners, it includes optional technical features like berms and small rock gardens for those looking to test their skills as they gain confidence.
• Start and Finish Points: The trail begins and ends at the Grizedale Visitor Centre, where you can park your car and prepare for the ride.
• Approximate Time to Complete: 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and stops for taking in the views.

Link to map.

2. Hawkshead Moor – Hawkshead Loop

For those seeking an easy yet rewarding ride, the Hawkshead Loop on Hawkshead Moor is a great option. This 10.5-mile (17 km) route offers a relatively easy terrain that’s perfect for riders looking to enjoy a leisurely day out without too many challenges.

• Trail Features: The Hawkshead Loop primarily follows well-defined bridleways and minor roads, with gentle gradients that make it accessible to all fitness levels. The route includes a few mild climbs, but nothing too taxing, and the descents are smooth and enjoyable.
• Scenic Highlights: This trail provides spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, including vistas over Esthwaite Water and the rolling hills of the southern Lake District. Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque villages, ancient stone walls, and lush green pastures.
• Difficulty Level: The Hawkshead Loop is ideal for beginners, with its straightforward navigation and easy terrain. It’s also a great choice for families or those looking to combine a relaxing ride with some sightseeing.
• Start and Finish Points: The loop starts and finishes in the village of Hawkshead, a picturesque village with convenient parking and facilities.
• Approximate Time to Complete: 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your pace and whether you take time to explore Hawkshead village.

Link to map.

3. Whinlatter Forest Park – Blue Grade Trail / Quercus

Whinlatter Forest Park is home to the only true mountain forest in England and offers trails for all abilities. For beginners, the Blue Grade Trail is a great introduction to mountain biking in a more adventurous setting, offering a longer and slightly more challenging ride than the previous two options.

• Trail Features: The Blue Grade Trail is a 7.5-mile (12 km) loop that winds its way through the forest, featuring a mix of singletrack and forest roads. The trail is slightly more challenging, with some moderate climbs and flowing descents, but still manageable for beginners. The trail surface is generally smooth, but there are sections with loose gravel and small rocks to navigate.
• Scenic Highlights: The trail offers breathtaking views of the Lake District’s northern fells, including glimpses of Skiddaw and Derwentwater. As you ride, you’ll pass through dense coniferous forests, with occasional clearings that offer panoramic vistas. The combination of forest and open views makes for a visually stunning ride.
• Difficulty Level: While still classified as a beginner trail, the Blue Grade Trail at Whinlatter offers a bit more of a challenge compared to Grizedale and Hawkshead. It’s perfect for those who have some basic biking skills and are looking to push themselves a bit further.
• Start and Finish Points: The trail starts and finishes at the Whinlatter Forest Visitor Centre, where you can park and access the trailhead.
• Approximate Time to Complete: 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and stops to take in the scenery.

Link to Map.

Intermediate Mountain Biking Trails in the Lake District

1. Whinlatter Forest Park – Altura Trail

For those ready to test their skills on a purpose-built trail that combines technical features with stunning views, the Altura Trail at Whinlatter Forest Park is an excellent choice. This 12-mile loop offers a mix of challenging climbs, thrilling descents, and breathtaking panoramas, making it a must-ride for intermediate bikers looking to push their limits in a truly inspiring setting.

• Trail Description: The Altura Trail is a 12-mile (19 km) loop that offers a thrilling mix of technical climbs, fast descents, and stunning views. This purpose-built singletrack trail is designed for intermediate riders, with plenty of twists, turns, and features like berms, jumps, and rock gardens to keep things exciting.
• Scenic Highlights: As you ascend through the forest, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over Bassenthwaite Lake and the northern fells, including Skiddaw. The trail also takes you through dense coniferous woods and open moorland, providing a variety of landscapes to enjoy.
• Start and Finish Points: The Altura Trail begins and ends at the Whinlatter Forest Visitor Centre, where you can park and prepare for the ride.
• Approximate Time to Complete: 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take in the breathtaking views.
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate, with some challenging sections that require good bike handling skills. The trail is ideal for riders looking to push their limits while enjoying the natural beauty of the Lake District.

Link to Map.

2. Loughrigg Terrace – Loughrigg Loop

The Loughrigg Loop offers a perfect blend of technical challenges and rewarding scenery. Starting in the picturesque town of Ambleside, this 6-mile route takes you up and around Loughrigg Fell, with steep climbs and rocky descents that demand both fitness and skill. The stunning views over Grasmere and Rydal Water make every effort worthwhile, especially during the vibrant autumn months.

• Trail Description: The Loughrigg Loop is a 6-mile (9.5 km) route that takes you up and around Loughrigg Fell, offering a mix of rocky, technical sections, fast descents, and more gentle paths. The climb up Loughrigg Terrace is steep and demanding, but the descent on the other side is fast and exhilarating, making the effort well worth it.
• Scenic Highlights: From the top of Loughrigg Fell, you’ll enjoy spectacular views over Grasmere, Rydal Water, and the surrounding fells. The trail also offers excellent views of the Langdale Pikes and the rolling hills of the central Lake District. This route is particularly beautiful in autumn, when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and gold.
• Start and Finish Points: The Loughrigg Loop starts and finishes in the town of Ambleside, with parking available at several locations in the town.
• Approximate Time to Complete: 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and the time spent enjoying the views from the top.
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate, with technical rocky sections and a steep climb that requires good fitness and bike control. The fast, flowing descent is a rewarding finish to the loop.

Link to map.

3. Coniston – The Walna Scar Road

The Walna Scar Road is a classic Lake District route that combines history with adventure. Starting in the village of Coniston, this 10-mile ride takes you up a historic track, offering a demanding climb followed by an exhilarating descent into the Duddon Valley. With panoramic views of Coniston Water and the surrounding peaks, this route provides a true test of your biking abilities, set against some of the most dramatic scenery in the region.

• Start and Finish Points: The Walna Scar Road route starts in the village of Coniston, with parking available in the village or at the nearby Coniston Sports and Social Centre.
• Trail Description: The Walna Scar Road is a classic Lake District mountain biking route, covering approximately 13 miles (20 km) of challenging terrain. The route begins with a tough climb up the Walna Scar Road, a historic track that dates back centuries. The climb is long and demanding, but the payoff is an exhilarating descent into the Duddon Valley, featuring a mix of rocky paths and fast, flowing sections.
• Scenic Highlights: From the top of the climb, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Coniston Water, the Old Man of Coniston, and the distant peaks of the central fells. The descent offers stunning views of the Duddon Valley and the surrounding mountains, making it one of the most rewarding rides in the area.
• Approximate Time to Complete: 3 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend taking in the views along the way.
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate, with a tough climb and a technical descent that requires good bike handling skills and confidence on rocky terrain. The route is ideal for riders looking for a challenging and rewarding mountain biking experience in the heart of the Lake District.

Link to map.

Advanced Mountain Biking Trails in the Lake District

1. Helvellyn – The Epic Descent

For experienced riders seeking one of the most thrilling and challenging mountain biking experiences in the Lake District, the descent from Helvellyn is the ultimate test. This route is not for the faint-hearted, offering steep, rocky terrain that demands both advanced technical skills and nerves of steel.

• Start and Finish Points: The route typically starts in the village of Glenridding, where you can park before beginning the challenging ascent to the summit of Helvellyn. The ride finishes back in Glenridding after an exhilarating descent.
• Trail Description: The climb to Helvellyn’s summit is steep and relentless, taking you to one of the highest points in England. Once at the top, the real challenge begins with a rocky, technical descent that will test your bike handling skills to the limit. The terrain includes loose rocks, sharp drops, and narrow ridges, requiring complete focus and control.
• Scenic Highlights: The effort is rewarded with breathtaking views from the summit, where you can see across the entire Lake District and beyond. The descent offers dramatic vistas of the surrounding peaks, valleys, and lakes, including a jaw-dropping view down Swirral Edge and Striding Edge.
• Approximate Time to Complete: 4 to 6 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend at the summit. The climb is long and tough, and the descent demands careful navigation, making this a full-day adventure.
• Difficulty Level: Advanced. This route requires excellent fitness, bike handling skills, and a head for heights. The descent is highly technical, with significant exposure in places, making it suitable only for very experienced riders.

Link to map.

2. Borrowdale Bash – The Rugged Loop

The Borrowdale Bash is a legendary route among seasoned mountain bikers, offering a rugged and challenging loop that takes you through some of the Lake District’s most stunning and remote landscapes. This trail is known for its technical sections, varied terrain, and the physical endurance it requires.

• Start and Finish Points: The route typically starts and finishes in the village of Rosthwaite, in the heart of Borrowdale, where you can park and access the trailhead.
• Trail Description: The Borrowdale Bash is a 17-mile (27 km) loop that combines technical climbs, rocky descents, and rough singletrack through some of the most beautiful and challenging terrain in the Lake District. The trail is famous for its rough, rocky sections and demanding ascents, which require strong legs and excellent technical ability.
• Scenic Highlights: The route takes you past iconic landmarks such as Derwentwater, Honister Pass, and the remote hamlet of Watendlath. Along the way, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, including the imposing peaks of Scafell Pike and Great Gable. The combination of rugged terrain and stunning scenery makes this a truly epic ride.
• Approximate Time to Complete: 3.5 to 5 hours, depending on your pace and how many stops you take to admire the scenery or catch your breath. The loop is long and demanding, with plenty of technical sections that require careful navigation.
• Difficulty Level: Advanced. The Borrowdale Bash is tough, with long, steep climbs and technical descents that demand high levels of fitness and skill. It’s a challenging ride that’s sure to test even the most experienced mountain bikers.

These advanced trails in the Lake District offer the ultimate challenge for seasoned riders, combining technical terrain with some of the most spectacular scenery in the UK. Whether you’re tackling the epic descent from Helvellyn or taking on the rugged loop of the Borrowdale Bash, these routes provide an unforgettable adventure that will push your skills and endurance to the limit.

Link to map.

Must-See Spots Along the Trails

When mountain biking in the Lake District, the trails themselves are just part of the experience. The region is rich in stunning vistas, historical landmarks, and diverse wildlife, making it worth your while to stop, take in the surroundings, and perhaps snap a few photos. Here are some must-see spots along the trails that will enhance your adventure.

Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities

• Helvellyn Summit (Helvellyn Descent): Reaching the summit of Helvellyn is a reward in itself, offering 360-degree views that stretch across the Lake District and beyond. On a clear day, you can see as far as Scotland to the north and the Pennines to the east. The dramatic ridges of Striding Edge and Swirral Edge are particularly photogenic, making this a perfect spot to capture the raw beauty of the Lake District.
• Derwentwater and the Borrowdale Valley (Borrowdale Bash): The Borrowdale Bash offers numerous stunning viewpoints, but one of the best is near the top of Honister Pass. Here, you can look down upon the tranquil waters of Derwentwater, framed by the rugged peaks of the surrounding fells. This is an ideal place for a rest and a photo, capturing the essence of the Lake District’s rugged beauty.
• Coniston Water and the Old Man of Coniston (Walna Scar Road): The Walna Scar Road offers breathtaking views of Coniston Water and the towering Old Man of Coniston. As you descend towards the Duddon Valley, the view opens up to reveal rolling hills and distant peaks, making it a perfect spot to pause and soak in the scenery.

Historical and Cultural Points of Interest

• Slate Mines (Helvellyn Descent and Borrowdale Bash): The Lake District has a rich mining history, and along these trails, you’ll pass remnants of old slate mines. Near Honister Pass on the Borrowdale Bash, you can explore the Honister Slate Mine, one of the few working slate mines in England, offering insight into the region’s industrial heritage.
• Rydal Cave (Loughrigg Loop): On the Loughrigg Loop, you can take a short detour to visit Rydal Cave, a large cavern created by quarrying in the 19th century. The cave is a fascinating spot to explore, with a reflective pool inside that makes for a great photo opportunity. The surrounding area was once frequented by poet William Wordsworth, adding a touch of literary history to your ride.
• Historic Villages (Various Trails): Many trails pass through or near historic villages such as Grasmere, Ambleside, and Hawkshead. These villages are steeped in history, with traditional Lakeland stone cottages, charming pubs, and churches dating back centuries. Stopping in these villages allows you to experience the cultural heart of the Lake District.

Wildlife Watching

• Red Deer and Birdlife (Grizedale Forest and Whinlatter Forest): Grizedale and Whinlatter Forests are excellent places to spot wildlife, including red deer, roe deer, and a variety of bird species such as buzzards, woodpeckers, and owls. The forests are managed to support wildlife, so keep an eye out as you ride, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.
• Ospreys (Bassenthwaite Lake, near Altura Trail): If you’re riding the Altura Trail at Whinlatter Forest, take a moment to visit the nearby Bassenthwaite Lake. This area is home to a pair of ospreys that nest here during the summer months. There’s an osprey viewing point nearby where you can watch these magnificent birds of prey hunting for fish.
• Herdwick Sheep (Various Trails): As you ride through the fells and pastures, you’ll likely encounter Herdwick sheep, a breed native to the Lake District and famous for their resilience and distinctive appearance. These hardy animals are a symbol of the region and are often seen grazing on the hillsides.

Post-Ride Relaxation: Where to Eat, Drink, and Stay

After a day of tackling the Lake District’s challenging mountain biking trails, you’ll likely be ready for some well-deserved rest and relaxation. The region offers a wealth of cozy pubs, charming cafes, and comfortable accommodations where you can unwind, refuel, and recharge for your next adventure. Here are some top recommendations for where to eat, drink, and stay in the Lake District.

Top Pubs and Cafes

• The Drunken Duck Inn (Ambleside): Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, The Drunken Duck Inn is a favorite among both locals and visitors. Known for its warm atmosphere, excellent food, and locally brewed ales, it’s the perfect place to relax after a day on the trails. The menu features a range of hearty dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including Cumbrian lamb and fresh fish from nearby lakes. Their outdoor seating area offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, making it a great spot to enjoy a post-ride pint.
• Wilfs Café (Staveley): Located in the village of Staveley, Wilfs Café is a popular stop for cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. The café offers a range of homemade soups, sandwiches, and cakes, along with vegetarian and vegan options. The relaxed, friendly atmosphere makes it a great place to refuel after a ride, and the café’s location in the Staveley Mill Yard means you can also explore the nearby brewery and artisan shops.
• The Old Dungeon Ghyll (Langdale Valley): For those riding in the Langdale Valley area, The Old Dungeon Ghyll is a must-visit. This historic inn is known for its traditional, no-nonsense pub fare and its welcoming atmosphere. With an open fire and a selection of local ales, it’s the ideal place to unwind and swap stories with fellow adventurers. The inn is also a popular starting point for many hikes, so you might want to combine your visit with a walk in the beautiful Langdale Valley.

Accommodation Options

• The Samling Hotel (Windermere): If you’re looking to treat yourself to some luxury after a day on the trails, The Samling Hotel is an excellent choice. Overlooking Lake Windermere, this boutique hotel offers stunning views, elegant rooms, and fine dining. The hotel’s serene setting and high-end amenities make it a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate after an intense day of mountain biking.
• YHA Borrowdale (Borrowdale): For those on a budget, YHA Borrowdale offers comfortable and affordable accommodation in one of the most scenic parts of the Lake District. The hostel is popular with hikers and cyclists, providing a friendly atmosphere, simple yet cozy rooms, and a hearty breakfast to set you up for the day ahead. Its location near the Borrowdale Bash route makes it an ideal base for your mountain biking adventures.
• Coniston Cottages (Coniston): For a more home-like experience, consider staying in one of the many self-catering cottages in Coniston. These cottages offer the flexibility of cooking your own meals and the comfort of a private space to relax after your rides. Many cottages are located close to the Walna Scar Road and other popular trails, making them convenient for biking enthusiasts.