Old Coach Road (Mountain Bike Ride)

East of Ullswater the massive Helvellyn range presents a formidable wall of high  peaks. The first feasible breach in its defences is on the flanks of Clough Head and Matterdale Common at the northern end. At this point an old coaching road links Dockray with St John's in the Vale and provides an exciting high-level mountain bike route. The riding is a combination of moderate technical challenges with some fantastic descents and a pleasant return via minor roads and cycle tracks giving wide ranging views of both Skiddaw and Blencathra.

• Start/finish: Aira Force Car Park, GR NY400199
• Distance: 19.5 miles (31.4km)
• Grade: Medium - Challenge
• Refreshments: Cafes: Aira Force
• Pubs: Dockray, Threlkeld, Scales, Troutbeck
  
  

Download this Cycle Route and Map:

• The Old Coach Road cycle route and map 
  
  

Further information

Ullswater Information Centre, Main Car Park, Glenridding
Telephone: 017684 82414
Email: ullswatertic@lakedistrict.gov.uk

Penrith Tourist Information Centre, Middlegate, Penrith
Telephone: 01768 867466
Email: pen.tic@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk