MTB and EBike Guiding in Keswick, Cumbria

Explore the Lake District with a guided mountain bike session that caters to riders of all levels. Whether you're interested in off-road trails or road tours, your guide will adapt the route to suit the weather and your skill level, ensuring a fun and safe day on the bike.

Key Details

Location: Keswick, Cumbria
Duration: 9:30 - 16:00 (full day)
Group Size: 1-12 people
Meeting Point: Keswick Market Square (unless arranged otheriwse)
Bike Type: Pedal bikes or E-bikes

What to Expect

The day begins at 9:30 AM with a meet-up at a convenient location, usually in Keswick's Market Square. Your guide will talk through the day’s route, which will be chosen to match your group’s ability and the weather conditions. Whether you prefer off-road mountain biking or a scenic road tour over quiet country lanes and challenging Lakeland passes, the ride will be tailored to suit your experience level.

Your guide will be on hand to offer support, navigation, and expert advice throughout the ride. Expect a mix of terrain, from gentle trails to more technical sections, depending on your preference. Stops can be arranged for refreshments at pubs or cafés on certain routes, though bringing a packed lunch is recommended for maximum flexibility. The day usually runs until 4:00 PM, though longer routes, such as the four passes, may extend beyond this time.

Location

Keswick, located in the heart of the Lake District, is a prime location for mountain biking, offering access to a variety of trails and quiet country roads.

The landscape provides options for all levels, from relaxed rides to more technical and challenging routes. With amazing views, forest trails, and open countryside, the area offers an incredible setting for a guided ride suited to your preferences.

Route Ideas

There are plenty of great mountain biking routes to choose from, whether you’re after technical descents, scenic trails, or a tough challenge. The Borrowdale Bash offers a classic ride with rocky descents, while the Skiddaw 8 loops around the back of Skiddaw in a figure-eight. For those wanting to tackle Helvellyn, there are nine different bridleways to choose from, with options for all abilities. The Three Tarns route takes in Stake Pass, Rosset Gill, and the Styhead descent, making for a tough but rewarding day.

The Four Passes and Three Passes routes offer steep climbs and fantastic descents, though both include some hiker-bike sections that aren’t ideal for E-bikes. If you prefer a mix of classic Lake District trails, Ambleside, South Lakes, and Coniston all have excellent options, from flowing bridleways to technical sections. For a more remote adventure, High Street provides a stunning ride, especially after a dry spell.

Prerequisites

Participants must bring a well-maintained bike suitable for the chosen route, along with a cycling helmet in good condition. Waterproof clothing is essential, as weather conditions in the Lake District can change quickly. A water bottle is recommended, as some routes may not have nearby facilities.

A packed lunch is advised to keep the day flexible, though café or pub stops can be arranged on certain routes. If you need to hire a bike, local rental recommendations are available.

Why Choose Us

Rich’s extensive experience and deep knowledge of the Lake District’s trails make him the ideal guide for riders of all abilities. With over 20 years of mountain biking in the area and multiple British Cycling qualifications, he ensures a safe, enjoyable, and tailored experience on every ride. His passion for cycling and friendly approach create a welcoming atmosphere, whether you're looking for a relaxed tour or a more challenging route.

With a background in outdoor adventure spanning more than 40 years, including his role in the Keswick Mountain Rescue Team, Rich combines expert guidance with a strong focus on safety. His local knowledge allows him to adapt routes to weather conditions and rider ability, ensuring the best possible experience. Whether you're visiting the Lake District or looking to explore new trails, you're in great hands.

Guided ride with an experienced and qualified mountain bike leader
Tailored route to match ability and weather conditions
Support and advice throughout the ride
Flexible start location based on the chosen route
Option to include café or pub stops on certain routes

Bike hire (recommendations available)
Helmet
Food and drinks
Transport to and from the meeting point

Routes are tailored to the group's ability and preferences, ranging from easy-going trails to more technical mountain tracks. The majority of rides are off-road, taking in the incredible landscapes of the Lake District.

However, guided road tours can also be arranged, using quieter country lanes or challenging Lakeland passes. Your guide will assess conditions on the day and adjust the route if needed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

You’ll need to bring your own bike, but if you don’t have one, we can recommend local hire shops that provide high-quality mountain bikes and E-bikes.

It’s essential that your bike is well-maintained and suitable for the type of ride planned. If you’re hiring, let us know in advance so we can help you find the best option.

The usual schedule runs from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, but the exact timing can depend on the chosen route. Longer rides, such as the four passes, may extend beyond this.

If you have specific time constraints, please mention this when booking so we can plan accordingly.

The session is designed to accommodate a wide range of abilities, from those new to mountain biking to experienced riders looking for a challenge.

As long as you have a reasonable level of fitness and are comfortable cycling for several hours, there will be a suitable route available. If you're unsure, feel free to get in touch to discuss your experience level.

The Lake District is known for unpredictable weather, but guided rides take place in most conditions. Routes can be adapted to ensure safety and enjoyment. In cases of extreme weather where riding wouldn’t be safe, alternative options or rescheduling may be offered.

Bringing appropriate waterproof gear is essential to stay comfortable.

The guide will be in touch after booking to discuss route options suited to your skill level.

If you wish to discuss this before booking, please contact us via the adventuro chat below.

Based in Keswick, this experienced MTB guide offers expert-led mountain bike coaching and guiding in the heart of the Lake District. With over 20 years of riding and route knowledge in the area - and a background in both road cycling and mountain rescue - Rich brings a calm, supportive, and highly capable presence to every ride. He holds multiple British Cycling qualifications, including Level 3 Leadership and Level 2 Coaching, and works with riders of all abilities to build confidence, improve technique, and explore some of the best trails in the UK. Whether you're new to mountain biking or looking to take your skills to the next level, Rich’s deep local knowledge and practical coaching approach make him a trusted guide for individuals and small groups alike.