Cycling from your Cottage in the Lakes

The Best Circular Bike Routes for All Levels

Explore gentle lanes, scenic loops, and challenging climbs directly from your Rowley Estates stay.

Setting Off from Your Cottage Door

There’s something magical about stepping outside your Rowley Estates cottage in the morning, the air crisp with the promise of adventure. The stone walls are still warming in the sun, birds chatter in the hedgerows, and your bike waits ready. No need to load the car or drive anywhere – from here, the countryside opens up in every direction.

With every turn of the pedal, you’re in the heart of Cumbria: ancient lanes edged with hawthorn, sweeping views of fells, and villages where time seems to have paused. And best of all, many of the best routes are circular, guiding you out into the landscape before bringing you right back to your cottage for a well-earned rest (and perhaps a pint by the fire).

Gentle Loops for Easy Riding

Perfect for families and relaxed riders, these loops let you explore at your own pace – with tempting stops along the way.

• Eden Valley Lane Loop – From Blencowe Hall or Melmerby Hall, this 6–10 mile loop winds past meadows and quiet lanes. Pause at the Boot & Shoe Inn in Greystoke for a drink in the garden, or pack a picnic to enjoy by the River Petteril.

• Lowther Estate Circular – From Glassonby or Todd Hills Hall Farmhouse, this 8-mile loop passes through wooded parkland and deer reserves. Stop at Lowther Castle’s café, where homemade cakes and hearty lunches fuel the ride back.

Scenic Mid-Level Routes

These routes add a little challenge, but the rewards are plentiful: breathtaking views and charming places to pause.

• Greystoke & Dalemain Estate Circuit – An 18-mile ride from Blencowe Hall. After passing castle walls and rolling lanes, call into Dalemain Mansion’s tearoom for award-winning marmalade cake.

• Askham & Ullswater Edge Ride – This 22-mile loop combines riverside paths, woodland, and lake views. Midway, take a break at Askham Village Store & Kitchen, which serves excellent coffee and light lunches, or linger at Pooley Bridge, where waterside pubs like the Crown Inn overlook Ullswater.

Challenging Climbs for Keen Cyclists

For those who love the burn of a climb and the thrill of a sweeping descent, these routes deliver – with well-earned rewards en route.

• Hartside Pass Loop – Starting from Melmerby, the 35-mile ride up Hartside is a classic challenge. At the top, the old Hartside Café site marks the high point with incredible views. On your return through Alston, the Saddlers Bakery & Café offers pies, pastries, and strong coffee – just what tired legs need.

• Helton & High Street Circuit – This 40-mile route climbs into the fells above Askham, where skylarks and sweeping views accompany your effort. On the way back, treat yourself at the George & Dragon in Clifton, a pub renowned for its seasonal Cumbrian produce and winner of Cumbria Pub of the Year in 2024 – the perfect end to a long day in the saddle.

Returning Home

The best part of a circular ride is the return. Whether you’ve pedalled a gentle family loop or conquered a mountain pass, there’s a quiet satisfaction in rolling back into your Rowley Estates courtyard. Bikes tucked away in secure storage, you can swap cycling shoes for slippers and enjoy a hearty supper or fireside drink. Tomorrow, perhaps, another route awaits.

Pedal Into Adventure

From meandering valley lanes to legendary climbs, Cumbria is a cyclist’s dream – and staying at The Rowley Estates places it all at your doorstep. Each ride isn’t just a route, but a story: of landscapes discovered, challenges met, and pubs, cafés, and tearooms where you can savour the journey along the way. For advice on any routes, please just ask us.