Cycling in Eden

Riding a bike over rolling terrain on quiet rural roads and bridleway tracks is an exhilarating way to enjoy Eden's epic scenery. The Eden Valley and Orton Fells, spread as they are between the tougher terrain of the Lake District and North Pennines, are especially good for circular rides from places like Penrith, Appleby and Kirkby Stephen.  These market towns are all accessible by train too. Higher altitude Alston offers adventurous outings for the more experienced cyclist.

The Lake and Dales Loop allows you to get up close to Cumbria's spectacular landscapes.  Using quiet country lanes, the route takes in the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, Eden Valley, Morecambe Bay and West Cumbria.  The suggested start and finish point is in Penrith.

Where these rides coincide with sections of the three long distance cycle routes which pass through Eden, the Sea to Sea (C2C), Walney to Wear and Whitby (W2W) and Pennine Cycleway, you will be following the blue signs of these challenging National Cycle Network routes.  You may also be sharing a few words with those who are touring along them. Plenty of Land's End - John O'Groats cyclists pass through Eden as well.

We also have some great downloadable Eden Cycle Routes to try.  Cycle from Appleby and Kirkby Stephen, from Penrith or bike around Alston and Ullswater with one of our cycling leaflets.

Overnight or for longer, the Eden area offers a great range of places to stay for cyclists.

Look out for establishments displaying the 'Cyclists Welcome' logo.  This shows their accommodation is well suited for and equipped for guests with particular requirements.  It also means certain facilities and services are provided, eg lockable storage for bikes.

Find out more about Cycling in Eden: