The ideal holiday within the Lake District for active tastes may come in the form of a biking tour. The Lake District caters for many different types of activity holidays, including walking, swimhiking and mountain biking, the latter providing plenty of bicycle tour operators, local information, cycle routes and interesting terrain to offer. But where should the holiday maker begin when planning a Lakeland bicycle tour?
Advice on Mountain Biking in the Lake District
Selecting the most suitable biking holiday means making decision on the sort of biking holiday sought after. The following issues require consideration:
- A convenient location within the Lakes where the cycle routes can be reached without having to use the car. The Langdales, Borrowdale and Keswick have a wealth of cycle routes within one area
- The fitness level of the cyclist(s). Some Lakeland bicycle trails go up steep mountains, such as Hard Knott Pass or Easedale Tarn. Other bike routes, such as the Windermere circuit are relatively flat. Most cycle tour operators provide advice and a library of cycle routes to suit all tastes
- Whether the biking holiday is suitable for families, in which case a road free bike trail may be essential. Gizedale Forest and Whinlatter Forest are crisscrossed with family friendly biking trails
- Whether a budget holiday is required. Cheap Lakeland accommodation can be found for backpackers or self-caterers
- Whether bike hire is required if the bikes cannot be transported to the Lake District, in which case there are plenty of bike tour operators available within the lakes
- Whether the holiday maker is looking to cycle from one central location or prefers a cycle tour of the Lakes. Some tour operators arrange the enroute accommodation if on a biking tour, such as across the Cumbrian section of the coast to coast trail (otherwise known as C2C route) or if linking with another cycle route such as the Hadrian’s Wall cycle route or the Pennine Way.
Lakeland Bicycle Tour Operators
Hiring a bike within the Lakes is convenient if the cyclists are unable to transport their own bikes to the holiday destination. But selecting the most suitable cycle hire company within the Lakes must satisfy the following criteria:
- The bikes available must not be old, rusty or in poor condition
- The bikes must pass safety standards. The breaks must be sharp, reflectors in good condition and plenty of gears available to deal with the diverse terrain within the Lakes
- Supply of repair kit for punctures or other breakdowns
- A helpline if the cyclist encounters problems (within reason)
- Most bike hire companies do not supply cycling helmets for safety reasons. It is best to bring one on the holiday.
Sticking to an established company is a safer bet. Online customer forums are a good indicator of how good the bike hire company is.
What to Take on a Biking Holiday in the Lake District
The following items will prove invaluable when going on a bicycle holiday within the Lakes:
- Lightweight waterproof and windproof coat and trousers, as well as extra layers in the form of thin fleeces and gloves. A choice of clothing will ensure comfort regardless of the prevailing microclimate
- Sun block, first aid kit, sunglasses and mobile phone
- Plenty of refreshments, such as a high carb lunch and a hot flask to keep energy levels up
- Up to date OS maps of the area and compass
- First aid kit
Further information on mountain biking within Cumbria can be found from the National Cycle Network, the National Trust, Ordinance Survey maps and Sustrans.
A Cycling Holiday in the Lake District
Embarking upon an activity holiday such as a cycling tour within the Lakes is a great way of exploring its exciting terrain without having to use the car. However, a little planning is required first, such as selecting cycle routes to suit the fitness level of the cyclist, as well as bringing appropriate equipment. Finding a good cycle rental company is also essential to an enjoyable holiday.
Rachel Shirley - I have written and illustrated several art instruction books entitled Oil Paintings from your Garden and Oil Paintings from the Landscape ...
