NAN BIELD PASS, LAKE DISTRICT

Distance 38.2km (23.7 miles) Climbing 1,495m Time 5hrs to 8hrs

Route summary: The full route is a very big, tough ride, both physically and technically, so allow a whole, dry summer’s day to attempt it. Alternatively, the northern loop will be enough for many people and still packs a punch, with tough climbs and hike-a-biking, before an amazing singletrack descent. For a shorter ride, just do the northern loop, starting in Sadgill (postcode: LA8 9BE, grid ref: NY 483/057). This covers 17km (10.6-mile) with 1,000m of climbing and takes 3hrs to 5hrs.

Start/finish: Staveley Mill Yard car park (postcode: LA8 9LR, grid ref: NY 471/983).

LOCATION DETAILS:

The Lake District isn’t only stunningly beautiful, but also offers some of the best riding in England. It does get very busy, but this route avoids most of the traffic and people, while still delivering some top-class, classic Lakeland mountain biking.

GETTING THERE:

Staveley is just off the A591, northwest of Kendal, before Windermere. There’s parking in the Staveley Mill Yard. If starting from Sadgil, go north on the A6 at Kendal and follow a minor road down the Longsleddale valley from the A6, where there’s a small area to park in at the end. Or, you could park at Haweswater reservoir car park, near Shap off the M6 (but you’ll start with hike-a-bike and a big descent).

FACILITIES:

There are no refreshments out on the ride, although the Watermill Inn and Brewery at Ings offers food and accommodation, as does the Eagle and Child Inn in Staveley (01539 821320). Wilf’s Café in Staveley serves up a great breakfast (01539 822329). For bike needs, try Wheelbase in Staveley (0870 6003435) or Biketreks on the A591.

MAPS & BOOKS:

OS Landranger 97: Kendal & Morcambe. Mountain Biking in the Lake District by Ian Boydon (Cicerone Press).