Travel Guides

Bikepacking in the Lake District : Lakeland 200 and seven long-weekend bikepacking adventures

by Edward Hunton

A Cicerone guidebook covering eight challenging bikepacking routes across England's Lake District national park Bikepacking in the Lake District means tackling iconic road climbs like Hardknott, Wrynose and Honister, navigating high off-road passes, camping beneath the fells, and immersing yourself in a landscape that mountain bikers rarely experience at this depth. For experienced riders seeking a multi-day adventure in one of England's finest national parks, the possibilities are extensive. This guide covers eight bikepacking routes ranging from long weekends to 5 days, graded from moderate to very hard and suitable for experienced mountain bike and gravel bike riders. Routes include the classic Lakeland 200, Furness Forests, the Old Man of Coniston and the Irish Sea, Way Out in the Western Fells, Helvellyn and Back, the Dalston/Skiddaw Mega Pretzel, the Penrith/High Street Circuit, and Nine Lakes. Highlights feature legendary road climbs, thrilling off-road passes including Sticks Pass, Stake Pass and Black Sail, the highest bridleway in England over Helvellyn, and stunning views over the Irish Sea from Black Combe. All routes are accessible by public transport and well served with accommodation and facilities. Each route includes clear descriptions, mapping, elevation profiles, and detailed planning information with accommodation listings, facility notes, and stage summaries. You'll find practical guidance on kit, food and navigation, plus tips for riding the Lakeland 200 as an Individual Time Trial. Appendices cover campsites, hostels, bike shops and a comprehensive kit list to help you prepare for your adventure.

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