ELTERWATER, LAKE DISTRICT
Distance 29km (18 miles) Climbing 1,000m (3,280ft) Time 3hrs to 4hrs 30mins
Route summary: A good low-level route for all conditions, with refreshment and shortcut options along the way. It’s a tough physical workout with some technical riding, but nothing too epic, making it great for both intermediate and experienced riders.
Start/finish: Elterwater (postcode LA22 9HU, grid ref NY 328/047)
LOCATION DETAILS:
The Lake District is home to wild and rugged landscapes with inhospitable terrain and exposed, technical riding. However, this route shows off some amazing MTBing at lower levels, with great views of the mountains.
GETTING THERE:
Head for Ambleside on the A591, then go west on the A593 to Clappersgate and on to Skelwith Bridge. Join the B5343 to Elterwater and use the National Trust car park. (There’s an alternative car park just outside of Skelwith, which is a good place to start from, although this involves some road riding to and from Skelwith Bridge village).
FACILITIES:
Chesters by the River bakery and shop in Skelwith Bridge is amazing. In Elterwater, Slates Coffee & Kitchen is very good, too, and there’s The Britannia Inn for something more substantial. The Three Shires pub in Little Langdale, just before the end, is a good one. There are lots of places to stay, including back in Ambleside. Try Ambleside Backpackers (01539 432340) or Waterhead YHA (01539 432304).
MAPS AND BOOKS: Ordnance Survey Landranger 90: Penrith & Keswick. Lake District Mountain Bike Routes: 22 Classic Routes in the Cumbrian Fells and Dales by Tom Hutton (Out There Guides).